Digital Knowledge Exchange
The Digital Knowledge Exchange (DKX) was established to address the critical challenge of developing digital skills across Australia. While states and territories have made significant progress through their own initiatives, DKX aims to enhance these efforts by enabling collaboration and connection.
DKX serves as a platform that brings together state and federal governments, industry partners, and stakeholders to share knowledge and best practices, thereby supporting the scaling of effective workforce initiatives.
Central to this effort is the DKX Governance Group, which includes representatives from each state and territory. The Governance Group facilitates knowledge sharing through a series of Round Tables, while DKX Working Groups focus on key joint initiatives.
Through this collaborative approach, DKX aims to support the development of a stronger, more inclusive, and future-ready digital workforce across Australia.
Key Themes
This theme promotes diversity and inclusion in the digital workforce. It highlights initiatives to increase participation from underrepresented groups, such as women, Indigenous Australians, and people with disability.
Digital Priorities and Initiatives across States and Territories
Priorities and initiatives across the Digital Knowledge Exchange network of State and Territory Government departments.
Australian Capital Territory
Delivering Skills Inclusively to Provide All Canberrans a Foundation for Lifelong Learning
Priority 1 of the ACT Government’s Skilled to Succeed strategy focuses on inclusive skills development to maximise workforce participation and support lifelong learning for all Canberrans. This initiative ensures accessible, high-quality training in literacy, numeracy, and digital fluency, alongside occupation-specific and higher-level training.
Through providing affordable and flexible learning opportunities, the program aims to empower individuals from diverse backgrounds, including people with disabilities, women, carers, and older Canberrans, to achieve their career aspirations and contribute to the local economy. Read more
Skilled to Succeed – Industry Action Plans 2024 (Advanced Technology) – Improved equity, access and participation
The Skilled to Succeed – Industry Action Plans, part of the ACT Government’s strategy, focus on improving equity, access, and participation in the digital workforce, alongside addressing skills shortages and fostering inclusive economic growth.
These plans outline actions within the digital and technology sectors to promote diversity and provide targeted support for underrepresented groups. By enhancing opportunities for all, the initiative aims to create a highly skilled, inclusive, and responsive digital workforce in the ACT. Read more
New South Wales
Utilise Better Data on Diversity in the Digital Workforce
Project 3A, part of the NSW Digital Skills and Workforce Compact, focuses on leveraging data to enhance diversity within the digital workforce.
The initiative involves collecting and analysing comprehensive diversity data, which aims to identify gaps and opportunities for improvement. The insights gained will inform policies and programs that promote a more inclusive and equitable digital workforce in New South Wales. Read more
Drive Diversity in the Digital Workforce through Mentoring and Networking Programs
Project 3B, part of the NSW Digital Skills and Workforce Compact, aims to enhance diversity within the digital workforce by implementing mentoring and networking programs.
These initiatives provide underrepresented groups with access to experienced mentors and professional networks, fostering career development and inclusion. Creating supportive environments and offering tailored guidance, Project 3B helps build a more diverse and equitable digital workforce in New South Wales. Read more
Northern Territory
Exploring Ways to Reduce the Digital Divide
The Northern Territory Government is collaborating with federal and state governments to explore innovative solutions to reduce the digital divide. This initiative focuses on improving digital connectivity and access to technology for underserved communities, particularly in remote and regional areas. Addressing barriers such as affordability, infrastructure, and digital literacy, the project aims to ensure that all Territorians can participate fully in the digital economy and society. Read more
Digital Futures
Digital Futures aims to equip residents with the digital skills needed for the future workforce. This program focuses on enhancing digital literacy, providing access to technology, and supporting innovative projects that drive digital transformation.
By fostering collaboration between government, industry, and community organisations, Digital Futures seeks to create a digitally inclusive society where all Territorians can thrive in the digital age. Read more
Aboriginal Students Aspiration Program
The Aboriginal Students Aspiration Program is designed to inspire secondary school Aboriginal students to pursue careers in fields such as cyber security, engineering, and space.
This initiative engages students, parents, schools, and the business community in a collaborative effort to improve educational and employment outcomes. By providing targeted support and creating pathways to exciting career opportunities, the program aims to empower Aboriginal students to achieve their full potential. Read more
Women in STEM
As part of the NT Government’s commitment to supporting women in leadership and STEM careers, the NT Department of Industry, Tourism and Trade has been recognised as a Women in STEM Champion for the Australian Academy of Science Women in STEM Decadal Plan. The STEM Decadal Plan supports diversity in the workplace through their vision for the STEM ecosystem to attract, retain and progress girls and women in STEM education and careers. Read more
Queensland
Indigenous Knowledge Centres
The Indigenous Knowledge Centres (IKCs) initiative, supported by the Queensland Government, aims to bridge the digital divide impacting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities in regional and remote areas.
With a $9 million investment, the program enhances the digital capability of IKCs and establishes new IKCs in Doomadgee, Kowanyama, and Mornington Island. Additionally, the Deadly Digital Communities program collaborates with regional councils to co-design digital literacy activities, fostering digital inclusion and empowerment. Read more
Deadly Digital Communities Program
The Deadly Digital Communities Program, a partnership between the State Library of Queensland and Telstra, aims to close the digital divide for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities across Queensland.
This initiative delivers place-based, co-designed digital literacy programs through Indigenous Knowledge Centres and public libraries. By providing access to technology and digital skills training, the program empowers First Nations people to unlock new opportunities and enhance their digital capabilities. Read more
South Australia
Digital Inclusion Strategy
The Digital Inclusion Strategy in South Australia is a comprehensive initiative aimed at ensuring equitable access to digital services for all South Australians. This strategy is being developed with the goal of enhancing the state’s digital presence and improving customer engagement. The initiative involves development of a whole-of-government strategy that articulates a shared vision for digital inclusion over 3-5 years. Read more
Girls in STEM
The Girls in STEM initiative aims to encourage and support girls and young women to pursue careers in STEM. This program focuses on providing early and sustained intervention to promote innovation and address gender disparities in STEM fields. Read more
Victoria
Girls in STEM
The Girls in STEM initiative aims to encourage and support girls and young women to pursue careers in STEM. This program focuses on providing early and sustained intervention to promote innovation and address gender disparities in STEM fields. Read more
Victoria’s Cyber Strategy Mission Delivery Plan (2024-2025)
Priority 2 of the Victorian Government’s Cyber Strategy Mission Delivery Plan (2024-2025) focuses on boosting cyber security skills, talent and career pathways as a priority initiative. It includes targeting VET learners, women and talent migration support to address critical skills needs. Read more
Commonwealth Initiatives
National-level industry collaboration initiatives aimed at improving digital skills across Australia. This includes government policies, funding opportunities, and collaborative efforts between federal and state governments to promote digital capability and workforce development.
Digital Sisters
The Digital Sisters program by Good Things Foundation Australia, funded by the Australian Government, empowers refugee and migrant women by enhancing their digital skills and confidence.
Partnering with 55 community organisations, the program offers training and support to help women access online services, engage with their communities, and support their children’s digital learning. Read more
First Nations Digital Inclusion Plan
The First Nations Digital Inclusion Plan (FNDIP) is a strategic initiative by the Australian Government aimed at achieving equal levels of digital inclusion for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people by 2026.
Developed in consultation with First Nations communities, businesses, and government agencies, the FNDIP focuses on improving digital access, affordability, and ability. By fostering collaboration across various sectors, the plan supports the creation of a secure, sustainable, and inclusive digital future for First Nations people. Read more
Women in STEM Cadetships and Advanced Apprenticeship Program
The Women in STEM Cadetships and Advanced Apprenticeship Program is an Australian Government initiative designed to increase the participation of women in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) fields.
The program provides grants to higher education providers and employers to support women in studying part-time while continuing their careers. By offering flexible learning pathways and financial support, the program aims to upskill women in STEM, fostering a more diverse and inclusive workforce. Read more
Skills for Education and Employment Program
The Skills for Education and Employment (SEE) Program is an Australian Government initiative that provides free language, literacy, numeracy, and digital skills training to eligible Australians. The program helps individuals overcome skills barriers and enhance employability.
Delivered by a national network of training providers, the SEE Program offers both accredited and non-accredited training, including workplace-based options, to support learners across metropolitan, regional, and remote areas. Read more
Women in IT Executive Mentoring
The Women in IT Executive Mentoring (WITEM™) program, sponsored by Dell, is designed to support talented Executive Level 2 (EL2) women in the Australian Public Service (APS) who aspire to leadership roles in the data and digital landscape.
This 12-month program pairs senior executive mentors with female EL2 mentees, providing customised guidance, career development feedback, and networking opportunities. By fostering professional relationships and offering new perspectives, WITEM™ aims to develop the next generation of female leaders in IT. Read more
Case Studies
“The Women’s Economic Equality Taskforce showed that $128 billion can be unlocked by removing persistent barriers to women’s participation in economic activity.” – Dr Nora Koslowski, co-founder, EVEN Careers. Read more
“Libraries offer a safe space where people feel comfortable asking about technology – questions they often hesitate to ask at home, at work, or in public settings.” – Katie Gatward, Technology Support Officer, Helensvale Library. Read more
FSO Projects and Resources
Developed by Future Skills Organisation (FSO) to support digital skills development.
First Nations Participation in Technology
The decline in participation in tech qualifications by First Nations peoples is multifaceted. There is a digital divide in Australia, with limited access to high-speed internet and digital devices for some First Nations communities (especially remote regions), hindering inclusion in tech-focused training, especially if it is delivered online. Read more
Gender Equality in the Workforce: Challenges and Opportunities
The technology sector has some larger than industry average gender pay gaps, with differences reported among major tech companies. Twenty-one per cent of technology occupations are occupied by women, which is lower than the average across all occupations (48%). This low participation rate may be partly attributable to the pay gap in the sector. Median pay gaps above 15% are common, with some companies surpassing 50%. Read more
VET Workforce Development
Supporting the Vocational Education and Training (VET) workforce, this theme enhances educators’ digital skills to better integrate technology into teaching practices and support students in developing digital capabilities.
Digital Priorities and Initiatives across States and Territories
Priorities and initiatives across the Digital Knowledge Exchange network of State and Territory Government departments.
Australian Capital Territory
Teacher training and growing the VET workforce
The ACT Skills Action Plan 2024-28 highlights the ACT Government commitment to building Australia’s digital capability. This commitment includes supporting the professional development of teachers/trainers to ensure they are equipped to deliver relevant and up-to-date technology education including strengthening the VET workforce. Read more
New South Wales
NSWEduChat
The NSW Department of Education has introduced NSWEduChat, a generative AI tool designed to enhance educational experiences in schools. This tool, integrates AI into classrooms, includes advanced safeguards like content filtering and topic restriction to ensure a safe learning environment. NSWEduChat encourages critical thinking by guiding students to reason through questions rather than providing direct answers. The trial began in Term 1, 2024, with 16 schools and expanded to 50 schools by Term 2, reflecting positive feedback and high engagement levels. Read more
Queensland
Cyber Security Micro-credential for Educators
The Cyber Security Micro Credentialing program, developed by ACS, aims to train 250 teachers in cyber security concepts. It includes four modules: multi-factor authentication, cyber threats and vulnerabilities, digital footprint, and privacy principles. The program is co-designed with industry partner Intersoft Security and aligns with the Australian digital technologies curriculum. It prepares educators to help students identify, manage, and prevent cyber threats in their personal lives. Read more
South Australia
EdChat
EdChat is a generative AI chatbot developed by the SA Department for Education in partnership with Microsoft. EdChat is enhancing the technological skills of educators and their students. Tailored support from the department is empowering teachers and students to use EdChat in a way that suits their specific circumstances and requirements. They have been using EdChat in a variety of ways, from generating ideas to streamlining tasks. Read more
Victoria
VET Development Centre
The VET Development Centre (VDC) was established in 2005 by the Victorian Government to enhance the professional standing of the VET Sector workforce. VDC offers continuous professional learning for all VET staff, including webinars, workshops, and self-paced eLearning. Topics include digital badges, digital skills for education, learners’ digital support, and integrating Generative AI into assessments. Read more
Commonwealth Initiatives
National-level VET workforce initiatives are aimed at improving digital skills across Australia. This includes government policies, funding opportunities, and collaborative efforts between federal and state governments to promote digital capability and workforce development.
VET Workforce Blueprint
The VET Workforce Blueprint emphasises the importance of digital and technology skills integration within the VET sector. It includes actions to develop digital capability frameworks and professional development programs to ensure educators can effectively use technology in their teaching practices. Read more
Jobs and Skills Australia (JSA) VET Workforce Study
The VET Workforce Study by JSA highlights the need for digital skills and technology in the VET sector. It provides data and evidence to support the development of digital capabilities among VET educators, ensuring they are equipped to meet the demands of a technology-driven workforce. Read more
Case Studies
Examples of successful digital skills initiatives, showcasing impact, insights and best practices.
“Supporting both learners and staff is paramount across all sectors — be it schools, vocational education, or higher education. This support must extend beyond basic digital literacy to encompass AI proficiency and confidence” – Cherie Diaz, Executive Director, Education Innovation, Western Sydney University. Read more
“Trainers also need mentoring in technical skills to support them to become proficient in using apps and tools and to get the most value from them” (NCVER, 2023, p. 15). NCVER. (2023). Teaching digital skills: Implications for VET educators. National Centre for Vocational Education Research. Read more
“I don’t just put up the video and then walk away for another week and then put up another one. Communication is really critical during that period and I usually record a 5 or 10 minute talking head video regularly once or twice a week just to let them know what’s coming up, to invite any questions, anything they didn’t understand. Communication is the key there, especially with asynchronous delivery, where you’re not seeing the students face to face in a classroom.” – Focus group participant, Teacher, Information technology. Read more
“Even though I had a lot of prior knowledge, I never had a day walking into the classroom where I felt as though I wasn’t going to learn something new or exciting,” – Steve Cranage, Trainer and Assessor. Read more
FSO Projects and Resources
Developed by Future Skills Organisation (FSO) to support digital skills development.
Finance, Technology and Business VET Workforce Activity
FSO recognises the growing importance of finance, tech, and business skills across industries, including the need for enhanced digital literacy in the VET workforce. FSO collaborates with other JSCs to identify needs and opportunities. Research and initiatives are developed with input from VET stakeholders, industry, governments, and community groups. A Technical Committee includes representatives from RTOs, large employers, and peak bodies. Read more
Growing Australia’s Digital Workforce Report
Today, all workers are expected to be digitally informed, at a minimum. There is also an increasing expectation for workers to be digitally enabled to perform their job functions effectively and efficiently. The Growing Australia’s Digital Workforce report highlights the need for upskilling teachers and trainers to deliver digital training across various qualifications. Read more
Learning and Training Pathways
Enhancing and promoting pathways for people to gain entry-level tech roles or advance their tech career, have been prioritised by State and Territory governments. Current initiatives focus on vocational education and training (VET) programs, vendor certifications, apprenticeships, and other earn while you learn opportunities.
Digital Priorities and Initiatives across States and Territories
Priorities and initiatives across the Digital Knowledge Exchange network of State and Territory Government departments.
Australian Capital Territory
Career pathways and upskilling the workforce
The ACT Government is committed to building a future-focused skills system, with an emphasis on technology industries. The ACT Skills Action Plan 2024-28 highlights their commitment to mapping clear career pathways and supporting skill development through short courses and micro-credentials. Read more
New South Wales
20% Alternative Pathways Pledge
The NSW Digital Skills and Workforce Compact have introduced a 20% Alternative Pathways pledge to tackle future skills shortages in the NSW tech sector by fostering a diverse talent pipeline. Alternative pathways are non-university routes, including VET courses, traineeships, micro-credentials, earn-while-you-learn models, bootcamps, and vendor certifications.
The initiative is set to add 31,000 workers from various backgrounds, including women, people with disability, and First Nations peoples, bringing fresh perspectives and innovation to the industry. The compact aims to extend its support to small and medium-sized businesses in 2025, encouraging them to join this initiative. Read more
Northern Territory
Cross Sector Information and Communication Technology (ICT) Traineeship Program
The Northern Territory ICT Traineeship Program began as a pilot in 2022, aiming to develop digital skills through placements in New Future IT, NEC, Kinetic IT, and the NT Government. The pilot, completed in early 2023, received high ratings. The program is now continuing, incorporating lessons learned, and supported by the ICT Industry Association of NT and the NT Government. Read more
Queensland
ICT Gateway to Industry Schools program (ICT GISP)
The ICT Gateway to Industry Schools Program (GISP), funded by the Queensland Government, builds partnerships between schools and industry to enable young people to acquire the knowledge, skills, and attributes to participate effectively in the Queensland economy. The program provides students with a range of learning experiences to assist them in their career choices and pathways to employment. For example, students can pursue pathways into roles such as software development, cybersecurity, and data analysis through partnerships with TAFE Queensland and other Registered Training Organisations. Industry organisations lead each project, developing and implementing tailored school engagement activities in line with their industry’s key skills and workforce priorities. Read more
South Australia
Student Pathways
Student Pathways provides students, employers, parents, carers and schools with information on starting a career via a VET pathway. Industries covered include cyber and information technology. The cyber pathway highlights opportunities for on-the-job and off-the job training, VET qualifications, pathways to university and career options. Read more
Tasmania
Digital Careers
Tasmanian State Service Digital Careers offers pathways into digital and ICT roles, equipping people with essential skills. The Digital Careers Campaign, launched in June 2023, addresses skill shortages by promoting diverse career roles. It targets students, career changers, skilled migrants, and the community. Education options include accredited and non-accredited qualifications, micro-credentials, and various delivery modes. Read more
Victoria
Digital Jobs Program
The Digital Jobs program in Victoria provided 12-week training courses for in-demand digital skills and work placements with Victorian businesses. Over 1000 participants (about 20% of the total) received paid placements, and around 80% continued working with their host employment beyond the initial 12-week placement. The program, which ceased in June 2024, focused on mid-career Victorians and covered areas such as data analytics, digital marketing, and cloud computing. Read more
Western Australia
Digital Workplace Job Ready
The Digital Workplace Job Ready program offers free digital skills training to prepare participants for administrative and customer service roles. It includes work placements and aims to transition trainees into employment, particularly supporting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students. Read more
Commonwealth Initiatives
National-level learning and training pathways initiatives aimed at improving digital skills across Australia. This includes government policies, funding opportunities, and collaborative efforts between federal and state governments to promote digital capability and workforce development.
Digital Skills Cadetship Trial
This trial supported three cadetship projects to test innovative approaches to meet digital skills needs. It blended formal training with on-the-job learning and mentoring, focusing on cyber security, web development, data analytics, and cloud computing. Read more
Microcredentials Pilot in Higher Education
This pilot assists higher education providers in designing and delivering microcredentials in fields of national priority. It aims to meet industry skills needs and increase access to lifelong learning, with $18.5 million committed to support up to 4,000 students. Read more
Advanced Apprenticeships (Industry 4.0) pilot
The Australian Government’s $7.2 million pilot targets small to medium-sized businesses in key manufacturing areas, aiming to upskill, retrain, and reskill employees in Industry 4.0 technologies through collaboration between industry, government, and universities. Read more
Australian Skills Guarantee
The Australian Skills Guarantee sets national targets for apprentices, trainees, paid cadets, and women on major government-funded projects. For Major ICT Projects valued at $10 million or more, targets are negotiated with suppliers to significantly increase the engagement of apprentices, trainees, and ICT cadets. The policy, shaped through extensive consultation, leverages government purchasing power to address skills shortages and gender segregation in the construction and ICT sectors. Read more
Case Studies
Tech trek: How Charlotte engineered her IT pathway
“Traineeships kickstart your career and help develop soft skills, such as time management and communication. These are things that can sometimes be lacking in a traditional education setting like university.” – Charlotte Ross, IT Projects Engineer. Read more
How Jolene found her niche in technology
Within two years of starting at NAB, Jolene realised that programming was not her forte. She believed that her career in technology at NAB was doomed. Fortunately, NAB provides…Read more
Taking Aussie cyber security talent to the world
“After my first competition, I knew I had to keep going. I strongly encourage others to get involved – it’s a game changer for both young people and more experienced professionals.” – Sawan Singh, cyber security mentor and judging panellist. Read more
Exploring the career path of a cyber security consultant
“The fastest way to learn is by putting your understanding out into the real world and having discussions…” – Harry Brown, Cyber Security Consultant. Read more
My pathway towards a rewarding IT career
“All my computer related experience was purely in school. I didn’t even have a computer in my house until after I finished university.” – Callie Clarke, Cloud Architect. Read more
Prospect Careers Guide
The Prospect Careers Guide connects students with mining sector opportunities, offering practical advice, real-world case studies, and pathways like apprenticeships and university degrees. It highlights how the industry embraces advanced technology and the top digital skills needed, such as automation and AI. Read more
FSO Projects and Resources
Developed by Future Skills Organisation (FSO) to support digital skills development.
Understanding digital traineeships for skill development
The Earn While You Learn Project will recommend how to align current digital traineeship qualifications with industry needs, suggest improvements to delivery models, and identify ways to boost the uptake of digital traineeships. Read more
Uplifting Digital Capability
In recognition of the urgent need for digital capability uplift, this project will deliver new digital capability training products based on DigComp. FSO will also make the training available as early as possible through a Training Product Trial (TPT). The TPT will run in parallel with the normal Training Package Organising Framework (TPOF) processes for accredited training products. This means the TPT training products will be in trial and use by expert RTOs whilst the accreditation process is being completed as required. . The TPT aims to get urgent skills into the market more efficiently (ideally around 6 months after commencement of development). Read more
Industry Collaboration
This theme highlights the importance of collaboration between industry and education providers to develop a skilled digital workforce. It includes information on partnerships, industry-led training programs, and initiatives to address skills gaps and workforce needs.
Digital Priorities and Initiatives across States and Territories
Priorities and initiatives across the Digital Knowledge Exchange network of State and Territory Government departments.
New South Wales
NSW Digital Skills and Workforce Compact
The Compact is a partnership between the NSW Government, the digital industry, and education and training sectors. This collaboration leverages the resources, knowledge, and expertise of the NSW Government, employers, digital industry groups, and the education and training sectors to address projected digital workforce shortages in NSW. The Digital Compact’s Action Plan sets out 6 projects that will be implemented collaboratively by Compact Partners. Read more
Queensland
ICT Gateway to Industry Schools program (ICT GISP)
The ICT Gateway to Industry Schools Program (GISP), funded by the Queensland Government, builds partnerships between schools and industry to enable young people to acquire the knowledge, skills, and attributes to participate effectively in the Queensland economy. The program provides opportunities for industry and the education sector to work together to deliver outcomes for students, local communities, and businesses. Industry organisations lead each project, developing and implementing tailored school engagement activities in line with key skills and workforce priorities. Read more
Young Tech Ambassadors program
The Young Tech Ambassadors program connects early career tech professionals with high school students through classroom presentations, assemblies, and visual presentations. Ambassadors share their personal and professional journeys into tech careers. It has involved 35 ambassadors and 58 representatives, reaching a total audience of 16,000 members through live and virtual events. It spans from Townsville to the Gold Coast. Read more
Tasmania
The Technology Industry Skills Compact
The Technology Industry Skills Compact is a partnership between the Tasmanian Government, the Australian Computer Society’s (ACS’s) Tasmanian Branch, and TasICT. This initiative aims to future-proof Tasmania’s technology sector by developing a skilled workforce through industry-led training and workforce development programs. It includes career awareness programs in primary and secondary schools to promote stronger pathways to jobs and skills for young Tasmanians. The Compact has also supported the establishment of the TasTAFE Cyber Innovation Hub and various other digital transformation projects. Read more
TasTAFE and DXC Partnership
The partnership between DXC Technology and TasTAFE aims to provide students with real-world IT service desk training and job opportunities. This collaboration focuses on creating a skilled digital workforce talent pipeline for Hobart. A key component is the Certificate IV in IT Support course, which includes a four-month placement at DXC’s Customer Support Center of Excellence. This program equips students with both technical and customer service skills, ensuring they are job-ready upon completion. The initiative also supports DXC’s expansion in Tasmania, enhancing local employment and IT capabilities. Read more
Digital Fundamentals Course
The Department of State Growth has developed a comprehensive online course covering 8 digital areas. The Digital Fundamentals Course aims to help businesses gain the expertise to expand their reach, grow their business, and thrive online. Read more
Victoria
Digital Jobs for Manufacturing
The Digital Jobs for Manufacturing initiative in Victoria aimed to enhance the digital skills of workers within the manufacturing sector to boost productivity and innovation. This program provided targeted training and development opportunities, enabling employees to acquire essential digital competencies. Through collaboration with various manufacturing companies, the initiative addressed existing skills gaps and prepared the workforce for the evolving demands of the industry. The Victorian Government supported this initiative, emphasising the importance of a digitally skilled workforce in maintaining the sector’s competitiveness and growth. Read more
Commonwealth Initiatives
National-level industry collaboration initiatives aimed at improving digital skills across Australia. This includes government policies, funding opportunities, and collaborative efforts between federal and state governments to promote digital capability and workforce development.
Case Studies
Examples of successful digital skills initiatives, showcasing impact, insights and best practices.
“Mining is a high tech, high skilled industry and well ahead of most other industries in adopting new technologies.” – Amanda Lacaze, CEO, Lynas Rare Earths.
The Prospect careers guide showcases collaboration between the mining industry, educational institutions and Government. It emphasises the industry’s demand for digital skills in automation, AI, cybersecurity, and cloud computing. Read more
MYOB empowers teachers to upskill and stay industry relevant
“I could see we had the ability to put the relevant technology and business tools in the hands of students by upskilling and enabling educators to further increase engagement and digital opportunities for students.” – Tricia Andrews, Education Manager, MYOB. Read more
FSO Projects and Resources
Developed by Future Skills Organisation (FSO) to support digital skills development.
Entry Level Pathways (Personas)
This activity will define entry level pathways in the technology sector. This activity will validate the entry level pathways with industry, creating a unified understanding of industry skills needs to guide the VET sector. Defining and validating entry level pathways is required to underpin the design of effective training that develops skills across related entry level job roles for the tech sector. Read more
Featured News and Events
Queensland’s Digital Workforce Success
The Queensland Government’s end of program report for the Digital Professional Workforce Action Plan highlights the initiative’s achievements and lessons learned. The plan successfully enhanced digital skills, improved digital literacy, and increased tech sector employment opportunities. The report’s insights and recommendations will guide future digital skills programs, ensuring continued growth and success in the tech industry.
NSW Expands the 20% Pledge
NSW Digital Skills and Workforce Compact is working with industry and government partners to reshape digital hiring, with over 59 organisations now signed on to the 20% Alternative Pathways Pledge. Under the pledge, Compact Partners commit to hiring at least 20% of their entry-level digital workforce from non-traditional education pathways—such as TAFE, bootcamps, digital traineeships or direct industry experience—by 2030. The success of the NSW pledge is now serving as a model for other states and territories. FSO offers support for national coordination, consultation, and access to shared resources.
State and Territory Skills Strategies and Action Plans
Discover how states and territories are advancing digital workforce development across Australia.
These jurisdictional skills strategies and action plans support the implementation of the National Skills Plan and National Skills Agreement (NSA).
Australian Capital Territory
New South Wales
Northern Territory
Queensland
South Australia
Tasmania
Victoria
FSO Insights on Building a Digital Workforce
Explore FSO’s research and insights on shaping the future of digital skills