Submission into The establishment of Jobs and Skills Australia
FECCA highlights key considerations for the establishment of Jobs and Skills Australia, emphasising the need to prioritise migrants and culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) communities. FECCA underscores the barriers these groups face, including bias, discrimination, and systemic challenges in recognising overseas qualifications and navigating Australia’s migration and employment systems. For instance, the lack of consistency and transparency in skills assessment processes often leads to high costs and limited accessibility, which discourages participation. FECCA recommends that Jobs and Skills Australia oversee skills assessment bodies, ensuring accountability and equity, and collect detailed cohort-level data to address gaps in understanding the labour market outcomes of CALD communities.
FECCA further suggests that Jobs and Skills Australia engage broadly with community organisations representing priority cohorts to inform its work. These organisations can provide valuable insights into the unique challenges faced by CALD communities and potential solutions. To optimize its effectiveness, Jobs and Skills Australia should also implement outreach strategies to enhance visibility and present data in accessible formats. Expanding its stakeholder base and ensuring inclusive participation will help Jobs and Skills Australia develop robust policies that address labour market barriers and promote equitable opportunities for all Australians, contributing to a more inclusive and diverse workforce.
