Workplace Training in 2023

Skills shortages being experienced in Australian industry, along with ongoing issues in Australia's formal education and training sectors will maintain focus on the need for strong workplace training approaches for both small and large employers in 2023.

According to data from the Australian Bureau of Statistics, the number of workers participating in workplace training in Australia has steadily increased over the past 10 years. In 2010, approximately 45% of workers participated in some form of workplace training, while in 2020, this number had increased to nearly 60%.

The amount of time workers spent on training has also increased over the past decade. In 2010, the average worker spent approximately 20 hours per year on training, while in 2020, this number had increased to nearly 40 hours per year.

Workplace training is an important investment for any organisation, and it has a range of benefits that can improve both individual and organisational performance.

Key benefits of workplace training:

1. Improved productivity: Training helps employees learn new skills and techniques that can make them more efficient and effective at their jobs. This can lead to increased productivity and a better bottom line for the organisation.
2. Enhanced skills and knowledge: Training enables employees to stay up-to-date with the latest industry trends and best practices, which can help them perform their jobs more effectively. It also helps them gain new skills that can be applied in their current roles or used to pursue new career opportunities. This is more important than ever as digital transformation of Australian workplaces continues.
3. Increased job satisfaction: When employees feel like they are learning and growing in their careers, they are more likely to be satisfied with their jobs. Training can provide a sense of accomplishment and help employees feel more invested in their work.
4. Greater retention: Organisations that invest in training are more likely to retain their employees. When employees feel like their employer is investing in their development, they are less likely to look for opportunities elsewhere. Another key area of focus given the current difficulty in attracting new skilled workers.
5. Improved customer satisfaction: Training can help employees better understand the products or services they are selling, which can lead to improved customer satisfaction. Customers are more likely to have a positive experience when they feel like they are interacting with knowledgeable and competent employees.
6. Enhanced teamwork and collaboration: Training can help employees develop better communication and collaboration skills, which can lead to more cohesive and effective teams.

While formal education and training continues to be the primary focus for Australian governments, with new waves of reform underway, workplace training remains an important investment for all organisations that can lead to a range of benefits for both employees and the organisation as a whole. It helps employees stay up-to-date with industry trends, develop new skills, and be more productive and satisfied in their jobs. It also helps organisations attract and retain talented employees and improve customer satisfaction.

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