Solutions to the national shortage of skilled labour and building back Australia’s industrial base will be high on the agenda for the Assistant Manufacturing Minister Tim Ayres who will sit down with key industry sectors today.

Ahead of the upcoming Jobs and Skills Summit, Assistant Minister Ayres said today’s roundtable is an important step for how the Government and industry can reset towards growing the jobs of the future.

“The Government has clear plans to rebuild Australia’s sovereign capabilities by investing in areas of national interest such as rail, construction and defence,” Assistant Minister Ayres said.

“Workers and skills are at the heart of this, and today’s discussions bring together some of our country’s largest employers in these critical sectors.

“I am looking forward to discussing challenges, opportunities and what strategies are needed to train, retain and regain our future industry leaders.

“The task before us is massive but one that we have to tackle. A big part of driving productivity and economic gains is creating secure, well-paid jobs.

“For existing industries, this means supporting their transition to net zero emissions and making the most of the opportunities to commercialise innovation. For new and emerging industries, it means playing to our strengths and investing in our national sovereign capability.  

“This Government understands the importance of our industries being at the cutting edge of innovation so they can be energy efficient and sustainable – as well as shoring up our critical domestic supply chains.

“The insights we gain today will be valuable in helping inform discussions had next week and in the months to come.”

The Jobs and Skills Summit at Parliament House on 1 and 2 September will bring together unions, employers, civil society and governments, to address shared economic challenges, including skills shortages.