At VET Resources, we believe that Vocational Education and Training (VET) will be the key to unlocking our workforce potential for the future. With the rise of the digital economy, technology, and automation drastically altering industries as we know them, VET offers valuable opportunities to hone one’s skills accordingly. VET programs are continuously evolving to meet the demands of a digital generation – they incorporate everything from learning new languages to brush up on coding skills and acquiring knowledge about technical business processes. Not only is it advantageous in preparing job-seekers for upcoming digitalised occupations, but also in keeping existing ones alive and well from an ever-shifting economic landscape.
Furthermore, VET courses are incredibly accessible; with technology comes new possibilities like online platforms that enable you to complete modules remotely or even virtual reality simulations that allow real hands-on experience prior to entering a live environment. Even traditionally structured classroom-based courses benefit from technology-friendly adaptions– allowing educators to share slideshows and videos more easily than ever before. The rich range of resources available make employment prospects brighter for all learners involved and required specialties easier to access on all levels – directly contributing to a versatile labour market that is sure to power through any obstacle.
At VET Resources, we stay ahead of the curve by continuously researching and expanding our knowledge base to offer the best possible advice and information for all job seekers. Our website is a comprehensive hub that ranges from courses and qualifications to articles on general career advice, making it easier than ever to find the perfect course for you. We’re committed to helping those with an ambition to succeed, no matter their starting point. From the most experienced professionals to those just starting out – we got you covered!
Job Market and Vocational Education
The Australian economy has had almost 30 years of continuous growth. During this time, changes in demographics, technology, and competition from overseas have influenced the labour market. There has been a shift away from jobs in primary production and manufacturing towards a service-based labour market. This shift has brought both challenges and opportunities.
The shift towards services has also led to an increase in higher skilled occupations. Employment in skill level 1 occupations, which typically require a bachelor’s degree or higher qualification, has risen from 23% in 1988 to 32% in 2018. On the other hand, the share of employment in skill level 5 occupations, which generally require Year 12 or below, has decreased from 21% to 17% (source: www.dewr.gov.au).
These trends are projected to continue.
VET increasingly important
The rise of vocational education and training (VET) is now becoming increasingly important in today’s ever-evolving economy. Recent studies show that 9 out of 10 jobs in the near future will require a VET qualification, making it essential for those wanting to enter the workforce. Youth unemployment is on the rise and growing these new industries could be key to our economy, which has led to VET courses being developed across a wide range of disciplines.
This reflects how traditional industries have changed in recent years, such as brewing which was once dominated by multinational conglomerates but now sees an influx of craft beers undergoing popularity amongst drinkers. This shift in trends has been powered by VET qualifications since there is now a growing need for qualified craft brewers across Australia. Fortunately, it’s not just niche industries that are benefiting from VET either as it is also helping to shape some of the nation’s most fundamental industries as well, bringing them into an era of modern progression.
Meeting Job Market Needs
VET PROGRAMMES MATTER FOR ECONOMIC COMPETITIVENESS
To be competitive, countries need skilled workers. This includes a variety of mid-level trade, technical, and professional skills, as well as high-level skills obtained through university education. The successful tackling of youth unemployment during the recent economic crisis has been largely attributed to countries equipped with well-developed initial Vocational Education and Training (VET) systems.
BALANCE STUDENT PREFERENCES AND EMPLOYER NEEDS
The mix of VET programmes is determined by three main factors: student preferences, employer demands, and capacity limitations. The effectiveness of a VET system is determined by the benefits it brings to both students and employers. The importance given to students and employers in shaping the system depends on factors such as who bears the costs, the age of the student, the scope and focus of the program, and the predictability of labour market outcomes.
To balance student preferences and employer needs, utilise mechanisms like linking programs and places to employers’ willingness to provide workplace training. Assess future skill needs by consulting with employers and unions or conducting systematic forecasts or assessments. Offer effective career guidance that includes accurate information about labour market prospects. Use financial incentives to encourage students to train in specific areas, increase the amount of workplace training available, or expand off-the-job training opportunities to meet demand.
VET providers need both the motivation and the resources to address evolving labour market demands. Financial incentives or competition can drive a prompt response, but acquiring new equipment and skilled staff may be costly and time-consuming.
PROVIDE A BROAD RANGE OF SKILLS IN VET PROGRAMMES
VET students should develop wider competencies alongside job skills for easier career transitions. Blending school and workplace learning is effective for soft skill development and preparing for jobs. It also helps with smooth transitions into the labour market. Both general academic and practical skills should be given equal attention in upper secondary vocational programs. Numeracy and literacy skills should be strengthened as they are often weak in vocational students and important in the labour market.
PROVIDE THE RIGHT MIX OF SKILLS FOR THE LABOUR MARKET
- Vocational programmes beyond secondary level should have costs shared by the government, employers, and individual students based on the benefits received.
- The mix of VET training places should cater to both student preferences and employer needs, achieved through workplace training and planning.
- Employers and unions should be involved in curriculum development to ensure that the skills taught align with those needed in the modern workplace.
- Young people should be equipped with both generic, transferable skills for occupational mobility and lifelong learning, as well as occupationally-specific skills that meet immediate employer needs.
- Numeracy and literacy skills should be sufficient for all students in VET programmes to support lifelong learning and career development, with any weaknesses in this area addressed.
Reskilling workers as robotics and Artificial Intelligence (AI) shape our future
Automation is transforming the way we work, and is already beginning to reshape roles across all industries. Robotics and Artificial Intelligence (AI) are ushering in an entirely new world, forcing workers to adapt to a future of increased automation. This has resulted in some fearmongering around job losses, yet the reality is that there will always be a need for people – it’s just their skillset that must evolve. In order to successfully capitalise on this wave of technological advancement, reskilling our workforce will be essential.
VET education provides an opportunity to rapidly upskill existing workers for the changing job landscape that automation presents. Many traditional roles are being replaced with more advanced skillsets for handling tasks such as data analytics, machine learning or automated report writing – all potential qualifying pathways under VET courses.
The Australian mining industry is a great example of this – technology has changed many existing roles, requiring older workers to reskill so they can remain competitive in their field.
Now more than ever, VET plays a crucial part in preparing our workforce for this digital future – and companies should take advantage of these offerings as soon as possible before they get left behind.
Upskilling and reskilling through VET is the key if we want Australia’s economy to be ready for automation. It has been predicted that robotics and AI could provide as much as $2.2 trillion potential value into the economy by 2030 – but only if we have the people with the right skills in place to make the most of these opportunities.
Hopefully, Australians will take advantage of our education system to embrace these changes with open arms and start preparing themselves now for this exciting new era of work ahead.
Future-proofing the VET sector is key
The Vocational Education and Training (VET) sector is an essential component of the Australian economy, providing skilled workers to employers in a range of industries. Knowing this, it is important that governments and policy makers work together to ensure that this sector is adequately resourced and able to deal with the changing needs of our nation’s workforce. Future proofing VET is key when it comes to understanding what skills will be needed for tomorrow’s jobs, as well as providing relevant and accessible courses tailored to current and future workforce trends.
To achieve this, State Governments must improve their funding model – making sure adequate resources are available so that new courses can be developed without delays in accreditation or approvals processes. It is also essential that the industry itself works together with government and policy makers in areas such as data sharing, training providers partnerships, and infrastructure investment. If we want our VET sector to have a place within Australia’s digital future, then proper investment and collaboration are key. Investing now will help secure stability for the decades ahead while delivering job-ready candidates across a range of sectors – meaning more options for employers as well as better employment outcomes for graduates.
FAQs
What is the purpose of vocational education and training?
Vocational education and training (VET) is an important aspect of post-secondary education, as it provides students with the skills and knowledge needed to pursue a career in a variety of fields. VET programs are designed to give students the competencies needed for entry into employment or further study in a particular field. It is also intended to improve the employability of individuals by providing them with the relevant skills and knowledge required for today’s job market.
VET courses can also be tailored to meet the needs of an individual student’s career aspirations. In order to ensure that students are receiving the best vocational education and training, there are a variety of resources available. These include government-funded providers such as TAFE Institutes, private Registered Training Organisations (RTOs) and online programs.
What you gain through VET?
VET courses provide students with the opportunity to gain valuable skills and knowledge in a range of fields. It is important that individuals select the best VET program for their own career aspirations, as this can make a significant difference to their future employment prospects. Through VET, students can gain qualifications and competencies that will help them to stand out from the competition and make them more attractive to employers.
VET courses can also provide students with a pathway into higher education, such as university or college programs. Additionally, they can allow individuals to gain broader skills and knowledge that will help them to progress in their chosen field.
What resources are available?
In order to ensure that students receive the best VET program for their needs, there are a variety of resources available. These include online courses, TAFE Institutes and private Registered Training Organisations (RTOs).
Online courses can provide students with the flexibility to study from anywhere at any time, and can be tailored to meet individual needs. Additionally, they offer a range of industry-specific courses and qualifications that may not be available through other VET providers.
TAFE Institutes are government-funded providers that offer a comprehensive range of VET courses. They also provide support services such as job placement and career advice, as well as other resources.
RTOs are private providers of VET courses. They can provide students with more specific and tailored programs, and often have better industry connections. However, they may not have the same level of support services available as TAFE Institutes.
Suggested Read: Vocational Education And Training – All You Need To Know
Disclaimer:
The information presented on the VET Resources blog is for general guidance only. While we strive for accuracy, we cannot guarantee the completeness or timeliness of the information. VET Resources is not responsible for any errors or omissions, or for the results obtained from the use of this information. Always consult a professional for advice tailored to your circumstances.