The NSW government is addressing the projected shortage of 85,000 digital workers in NSW by 2030.
Yesterday (29 November), NSW Minister for Skills, TAFE, and Tertiary Education Steve Whan officially launched the NSW Digital Skills and Workforce Compact.
“It’s terrific to sign this landmark agreement as the NSW government unites with industry and education leaders to proactively tackle the looming digital skills shortage,” says Mr Whan.
“This partnership is a testament to our commitment to shaping a digitally empowered future for NSW and together, we’re laying the foundation for a resilient and inclusive digital workforce for the future.
“The NSW Digital Compact represents a significant opportunity for government to work with industry to change people’s idea of ‘tech,’ expanding the inclusivity of the sector.
“We’re not just bridging the skills gap: we’re building pathways for thousands of students, parents, and advisors to explore and embrace tech careers.”
The digital compact aspires to achieve the following milestones:
- Transform the perception of digital careers, enhancing diversity in the sector, fostering welcoming and productive workspaces.
- Collaborate with industry partners to expand and enhance new pathway programs for tech roles, including traineeships and work experiences.
- Extend the reach of mentoring and networking programs to engage a more diverse audience.
- Provide increased opportunities for the people of NSW to reskill or upskill in tech-related roles.
- Establish a collaborative platform with universities, TAFE, school curriculum providers, and industry experts to create a Digital Education Forum dedicated to enhancing tech education and industry partnerships.
- This collaborative effort marks a “significant step forward” in addressing the digital skills gap in NSW, ensuring a “robust and inclusive” digital workforce for the future.