THE HON TANYA PLIBERSEK MP 
SHADOW MINISTER FOR EDUCATION AND TRAINING 
MEMBER FOR SYDNEY
 
BRENDAN O’CONNOR MP
SHADOW MINISTER FOR EMPLOYMENT AND INDUSTRY SHADOW MINISTER FOR SCIENCE
SHADOW MINISTER FOR SMALL AND FAMILY BUSINESS
MEMBER FOR GORTON
 
CLARE O’NEIL MP
SHADOW MINISTER FOR INNOVATION, TECHNOLOGY AND THE FUTURE OF WORK
MEMBER FOR HOTHAM
 
GED KEARNEY MP
SHADOW ASSISTANT MINISTER FOR SKILLS
MEMBER FOR COOPER
 
 

The Australian National Outlook 2019, released by the CSIRO today, shows the Liberals have no plan for Australia’s economic future.  
 
According to the report, Australia is at risk of a slow decline and a soaring unemployment rate unless it embraces change.
 
The report warns of serious implications for a generation unprepared for significant technological shock.
 
“Technological change, such as artificial intelligence, automation and advances in biotechnology are transforming existing industries and changing the skills required for high-quality jobs. Unless Australia can reverse its recent declines in educational performance, its future workforce could be poorly prepared for the jobs of the future.”
CSIRO 2019 AUSTRALIAN NATIONAL OUTLOOK, TUESDAY, 18 JUNE 2019
 
These warnings come as no surprise under a Liberal Government that has absolutely no plan, no ideas, and no road map for Australia’s future.
 
As technology is used by businesses more and more to drive productivity and create stronger firms, the skills expectations of working Australians will change as well.

Lifting skills to ensure the workforce is prepared for the jobs of the future is crucial to future employment security and better wages. It requires bipartisanship and collaboration, none of which can be achieved without leadership, a plan, and vision from the current Government.
  
Australians need the Government to focus on better equipping them with the training and workplace skills they need now and for the jobs of the future. 

If we want the nation to become more prosperous, innovative, and globally competitive, we need people with the skills to help achieve this.