The value of lifelong learning in professional industries

The value of lifelong learning in professional industries

Australian careers are changing, with emerging technologies, industry shifts and economic factors influencing the nature of work.

Careers are also simply getting longer because of lifespan

Approaches to education need to shift too, towards a lifelong learning approach that better equips employees with the skills needed for a changing labour market and the careers of the 21st century.

This report explores the importance of and benefits to lifelong learning in an Australian workplace context, by examining the value of ongoing education and training for employees and businesses in professional industries.

Business ease of finding employees with necessary skills Business ease of finding employees with necessary skills
The old three-stage pattern of preparing for work; working; and then retiring is fast disappearing, yet many current workers have not had the opportunity to develop the career management competencies that they require to cope with, let alone thrive in, such an environment.

Australian Government’s Blueprint for Career Development

Key findings from employers surveyed

88% of employers find it hard to get employees with the skills they need.

49% of employers look to hire new talent when approaching skills shortages in their organisation.

The cost of replacing a bad hiring decision within 6 months is 2.5 times the worker’s salary.

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Acknowledgement of Country

RMIT University acknowledges the people of the Woi wurrung and Boon wurrung language groups of the eastern Kulin Nation on whose unceded lands we conduct the business of the University. RMIT University respectfully acknowledges their Ancestors and Elders, past and present. RMIT also acknowledges the Traditional Custodians and their Ancestors of the lands and waters across Australia where we conduct our business - Artwork 'Sentient' by Hollie Johnson, Gunaikurnai and Monero Ngarigo.

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aboriginal flag float-start torres strait flag float-start

Acknowledgement of Country

RMIT University acknowledges the people of the Woi wurrung and Boon wurrung language groups of the eastern Kulin Nation on whose unceded lands we conduct the business of the University. RMIT University respectfully acknowledges their Ancestors and Elders, past and present. RMIT also acknowledges the Traditional Custodians and their Ancestors of the lands and waters across Australia where we conduct our business.

More information