Getting Skills Right Financial Incentives to Promote Adult Learning in Australia

Introduction

Australia requires a strong system of adult learning to position firms and workers to succeed as skill demand changes.

Current Challenges

The country has scope to improve the coverage and inclusiveness of its adult learning system as coverage has declined since 2012, and several vulnerable groups are under-represented.

Role of Financial Incentives

Financial incentives, if carefully designed, can raise participation in adult learning by addressing cost and time barriers.

Report Summary

This report summarises the advantages and disadvantages with various financial incentives to promote adult learning based on international and Australian experience. Drawing from these insights, as well as analysis of individual and firm-level barriers, the report provides policy recommendations for how Australia could reform its financial incentives to boost participation.