Australia launches training scheme to boost digital skills

The trial by the federal government’s Digital Skills Organisation (DSO) will benefit employers, job seekers and training providers across Australia’s digital sector by working with them to create improved qualifications and training that meet the evolving workforce needs of the digital economy. 

Minister for employment, workforce, skills, small and family business Stuart Robert said building Australia’s digital workforce was an important part of the Morrison Government’s Economic Plan outlined in the Federal Budget which included 10,000 additional digital skills training places through the A$2-billion (US$1.47-billion) JobTrainer fund, subject to negotiations with states. 

He added that Australia’s recovery from the COVID-19 recession hinges on digital skills, and the trial would ensure those qualifications are fit-for-purpose so as to bring more Australians into the digital workforce. 

The trial will focus on entry-level data analysts and general digital skills required across the workforce. 

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It builds on the DSO’s successful Train 100 Data Analyst project which is providing new and innovative opportunities for Australians to rapidly develop digital skills, according to a statement released by the Department of Education, Skills and Employment.