The Australian Government has been working on a National Energy Workforce Strategy (NEWS). The development of the NEWS has supported important reforms and investments, such as the creation of the Net Zero Economy Agency.
This work has also identified the need to ensure we have the skills and capability to progress a range of initiatives to achieve net zero by 2050. The government will continue to work with industry to achieve this.
Some key insights included:
- a clearer picture of the workers and skills needed for clean energy jobs
- more help for workers and communities. This includes pathways for people starting new jobs or changing careers
- national support for regions, industries, and workers
- workforce planning built into major clean energy projects and programs
- a continued focus on safe, secure, and well paid jobs.
These insights were informed by feedback received during the drafting of the NEWS. Views were provided by industry, workers, unions, states and territories, and communities. These views helped the government to take a joined up approach to energy workforce challenges.
The Energy and Climate Ministerial Council (ECMC) provides a forum to consider these issues. It has an ongoing role in guiding policy on the energy transformation. The Australian Government will continue to engage with states and territories to support a strong and skilled energy workforce.