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This research examines changes in policy affecting the provision of adult literacy in South Australia with special reference to Institutes of Further Education. Over the past ten years the philosophical basis of adult literacy provision has shifted from notions of social justice and equity made concrete through publicly funded programs where there was a strong element of student centred voluntary participation to user pays programs tailored to meet the needs of business and industry rather than the individual. More and more the literacy and numeracy needs of individuals are being made to suit the requirements of the workplace in an increasingly competitive, global environment. This trend towards economically competitive programs has had, and will continue to have, far reaching effects on TAFE institutes as they struggle to compete for the ever shrinking dollar. One of the most important changes has been the increased casualisation of teaching staff. This research warns practitioners of the trends towards deskilling of literacy providers through the delivery of training packages by less qualified personnel. Practitioners are advised to be aware of the changes and to seek ways of keeping themselves properly informed so that they can lobby for sensible policies in the future. This is a vital responsibility for literacy educators given their vulnerable constituency.