Jobs and Skills Councils (JSCs) are industry-led and industry-owned organisations in Australia established to address workforce challenges, develop training programs, and ensure skills development aligns with industry needs. They play a critical role in workforce planning, skills forecasting, and helping industries adapt to changes in technology, demand, and economic conditions.
They are part of a national network of 10 JSCs that provide leadership to address skills and workforce challenges for their industry.
Here’s an overview of what JSCs do:
- Workforce Planning and Forecasting: JSCs identify current and future workforce needs within their industry sectors, considering shifts in technology, regulatory changes, and economic factors that influence job demands.
- Skills Development and Training: They work closely with training providers, including TAFEs and Registered Training Organisations (RTOs), to develop and refine qualifications and training packages that meet industry standards. This ensures that workers have the necessary skills to meet job demands.
- Industry Collaboration: JSCs connect with employers, unions, industry bodies, and other stakeholders to ensure that workforce strategies align with the actual needs of businesses and workers. This collaborative approach helps ensure that training and education systems are responsive to industry requirements.
- Promoting Apprenticeships and Pathways: Many JSCs focus on promoting apprenticeship and traineeship pathways, especially in industries with skill shortages. They also support programs that enhance employability skills and workforce participation across different demographics.
- Data Collection and Analysis: Through research and data collection, JSCs provide insights into skill shortages, employment trends, and training outcomes. This data helps inform policy decisions and improves workforce planning.
- Supporting Inclusion and Diversity: They aim to increase participation from underrepresented groups, such as women in trades, First Nations Australians, and those entering emerging sectors like renewable energy.
JSCs cover a broad range of sectors and their work ensures that Australia’s workforce is equipped to meet both current demands and future industry trends.
