The Australian government, led by Albanese, is developing a digitalized national skills passport that aims to enhance the connection between job seekers and employers seeking their specific skill sets. Treasurer Jim Chalmers announced that the government is preparing a $9.1 million business case to define the scope, outcomes, and benefits of the skills passport. The goal is to combine a person’s qualifications from vocational training and higher education, allowing them to showcase their skills to potential employers.
Chalmers emphasized the importance of creating a more agile and adaptable labor force to meet the changing demands of the economy. The Education Minister, Jason Clare, highlighted the need for individuals to upskill and reskill throughout their careers, and a National Skills Passport would make it easier for employees to demonstrate their skills and for employers to have confidence in their capabilities.
The initiative is part of the Labor Party’s efforts to promote lifelong learning, which will be outlined in the upcoming Employment White Paper. The consultation process for the integrated skills passport will involve businesses, unions, tertiary institutions, students, and states and territories. Universities Australia and the Business Council of Australia (BCA) have expressed their support for the initiative, recognizing the potential of a skills passport to address skill shortages and facilitate employment opportunities.
BCA CEO Bran Black highlighted that a national skills passport would streamline the process of applying for jobs by providing employers with a consistent format to view and verify the skills of potential employees. Both Universities Australia and the BCA envision the national skills passport functioning as a digital ID or record-keeping platform, where all education and employment information can be stored and shared.
The European Union’s Europass, launched in 2012, serves as a model for the Australian national skills passport. It is an online tool that helps individuals compile and share their skills, including digital credentials for certificates and diplomas. In addition, Australia plans to introduce a national digital ID, allowing individuals to store important personal information, such as driver’s licenses and passports, in a government-run platform.