Following the Victorian Chamber’s (VCCI) extensive consultation, investigation and member engagement, the Future Skills for Victoria final report (‘the Macklin Review’) not only reflects the VCCI’s submission and recommendations, but designs the roadmap for Victoria to acquire the skilled workforce we need for our future.

“Skills and training will be the key ingredient in Victoria’s economic and social recovery. Skilled Victorians make our businesses stronger and deliver the services that Victorians need. Most importantly, skilled workers create the innovation that accelerates economic growth,” said the former Federal Minister and Review Chair Jenny Macklin.

The Vocational Educations and Training (VET) sector cannot be understated for its value to the Victorian economy. As the report states, about one in three Victorian adults cite a VET qualification as their highest level of learning.

The report not only comes at a time when Victoria demonstrates its resilience through a resurging economy following the toughest COVID-19 restrictions in Australia, but also as the State Government commits major funding towards roads and public transport, education, family violence prevention, disability, and aged care services – all industries which require a skilled workforce.

“This is a significant body of work and the report will play a critical role shaping our efforts to ensure the education and training system delivers the skills Victoria needs,” said Minister for Training and Skills and Higher Education Gayle Tierney.

“Getting Victorians into good, secure employment is a key priority and a strong post-secondary education and training sector that includes relevant, high-quality and accessible VET will play a critical role in preparing Victorians for new and better jobs.”

The VCCI supports the key recommendation of the report; to establish a new independent body, FutureSkills, which will bring together education providers, industry, unions and communities, and act as a champion and steward of our skills system.

While FutureSkills will be a great initiative, it must be a part of a coordinated approach to industry development, jobs growth and economic recovery by the Victorian Government - and industry must have a central role.

We would also like to see stronger and more targeted support to boost commencements and completions of apprentices and trainees.

Currently, VET enrolments are strong, but is largely driven by significant short-term incentives put forward by the Federal Government, which will soon end.

The Andrews Government will now study the report and consider the findings of the review before responding within the coming months.

We look forward to working with the Government further as they consider the report and will continue to advocate strongly on behalf of businesses to ensure the state’s vital training system can adjust to industry, economic, technological, and environmental changes into the future.

Click here to view a copy of the Future Skills for Victoria final report

Advocacy and support

For more information on the Victorian Chamber’s advocacy, visit the Policy and Advocacy section of our website.

If you have any questions or would like to be involved in our advocacy work, please contact policy@victorianchamber.com.au.