Chris Evans (WA, Australian Labor Party, Leader of the Government in the Senate) Share this | Hansard source

As the economy continues to grow and strengthen, the government is working hard to respond to what are emerging skills shortages. The Critical Skills Investment Fund is a key part of the government’s skills and sustainable growth strategy of more than $660 million to address those skills shortages, lift foundation skills and reform and improve access to vocational education and training.

The Critical Skills Investment Fund of $200 million will upskill workers and train job seekers who wish to work in the critical industry sectors that have strong demand. It will target skills shortages in the resources, construction, renewable energy and infrastructure sectors. It will also increase workforce participation by groups traditionally underrepresented in these sectors. Government funding support for training will be matched by enterprise contributions on a sliding scale. We will look to double the Commonwealth investment to try and ensure that young people get the opportunity to take advantage of the economic growth. (Time expired)