Today the Australian Technology Network of Universities (ATN) launches a report together with PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC), Lifelong Skills: Equipping Australians for the future of work. The report will be the focus of a high level roundtable with representatives from the Australian Government, industry and universities.

This report is not predicting the future of work, but makes five key findings and recommendations to ensure Australians are well prepared to respond to emerging changes and challenges in the workforce.

ATN Executive Director Renee Hindmarsh encouraged government and business to adopt the recommendations and work with universities on their implementation.

“No-one can predict exactly what the future of work will look like, but we can ensure that the system is flexible enough that we can produce a workforce with the competencies necessary to thrive. This will lead to a more productive and innovative society and contribute to Australia’s future prosperity,” Ms Hindmarsh said.

Lifelong learning will become increasingly important for people looking to reskill and upskill to adapt and meet challenges in the future of work. Flexibility will be key to ensure learners can build on their existing skills or learn new ones in a way that works for them and their employer.

In conjunction with the launch of this report, the ATN is developing a national portal to showcase our micro-credentials, short courses and MOOCs. Consistent with the ATN’s commitment to developing enterprise skills in our graduates, this national platform will highlight the many offerings across our network of universities – many of which have been developed with industry.

“This report recognises that much has already been done to respond to digital disruption and the changing nature of work. Although there is a lot of uncertainty and fear in the community about what the future of work holds for them, we wanted to reassure people that there is also cause for optimism,” says Ms Hindmarsh.

It is vital that the policy settings in Australia, including funding arrangements, support lifelong learning.

A copy of the report can be accessed here.