Jobs Queensland Bill 2015

Overview

This bill creates Jobs Queensland, a new independent body that advises the state government on what skills Queensland will need, how to plan for future workforce needs, and how the apprenticeship and traineeship system should work. It is intended to give industry, unions, and regional Queensland a stronger voice in shaping training priorities.

Who it affects

Apprentices, trainees, employers, unions and regional communities will be affected through the advice Jobs Queensland gives on where training investment goes. The Department of Education and Training continues to run the VET system and training budget.

Key changes

• Establishes Jobs Queensland as an independent statutory entity to advise government on skills and workforce planning
• Requires a board of 7 to 12 members with equal numbers of employer and employee representatives, balanced gender representation, and a mix of industry and expert members
• Requires consultation with regional and rural representatives, employers, unions and industry peak bodies
• Gives the Minister power to refer matters and direct the entity, but not to direct the content of its advice
• Requires an annual report tabled in Parliament and allows the Minister to issue a statement of expectations