Jobs and Skills Australia (JSA) has today released the discussion paper ‘Building a system that puts people and skills first’, marking the next step in the development of the National Skills Taxonomy (NST).
The NST is a shared, evidence-based language for describing the skills Australians gain, develop and use across education and employment systems. By moving beyond job titles and qualifications, the NST puts skills first – making all skills visible, valued, and transferable.
JSA’s work on the NST aims to create a cohesive approach to workforce development that enhances occupational mobility, supports lifelong learning and aligns workforce capabilities with evolving industry needs. Individuals, businesses and communities thrive when everyone has the skills to participate productively in education, employment and the economy.
The NST is being designed to:
- Enable skills-first clarity by focusing on what people can do, supporting fairer and more accurate recognition of skills.
- Make all skills visible, including analytical thinking, communication and problem-solving, alongside technical skills.
- Ensure consistency across systems with a precise, inclusive definition of ‘skill’ for educators, employers and learners.
- Support better decisions and outcomes through evidence-based policy, workforce planning and effective measurement of the economic impact of skills.
- Prepare for the future by helping people navigate dynamic labour markets and making skills portable across roles, sectors and learning pathways.
To inform the design and development of the NST, JSA is undertaking a multi-stage engagement process with stakeholders across vocational and higher education, unions, employer groups and government agencies. This collaborative approach ensures the NST is grounded in real-world needs and is practical for both learning and work.
The first stage began in June 2024 with the release of the initial NST Discussion Paper for public consultation, followed by workshops and interviews to gather feedback on the proposed vision, mission, principles and design features. Stakeholder responses have shaped the direction of the NST and informed its foundational elements.
Building on this foundation, JSA is now inviting further input on how a skills-first framework can support workforce development, inclusivity and adaptability in Australia’s evolving labour market.
JSA invites stakeholders and the public to download the discussion paper and share their views. Your feedback will help shape a shared skills language that supports lifelong learning, career mobility and a more adaptable workforce.
To find more information, read the paper or make a submission, visit the Jobs and Skills Australia website or contact nationalskillstaxonomy@jobsandskills.gov.au. Submissions close on Friday 5 December.
