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In this discussion paper, the author emphasises that strategies to increase the quantity and quality of postcompulsory educational provision for young people and improve their transition to further education, training or employment has been a priority for education and training jurisdictions both in Australia and overseas for more than a decade. However, it is now more urgent in the face of the current skills shortage, the emerging challenge of an ageing population and the economic pressures created by increased global competition. These challenges and their associated social issues require the following education and training objectives: keeping older people in the workforce and encouraging others to return to training and work; and ensuring the completion of at least Year 12 or its equivalent and promoting a smooth transition into higher level education and training or the workforce. The paper addresses the latter of these two key objectives and was presented to the Victorian TAFE Association (VTA) Council on August 24, 2006. It provides a summary of the drivers of policy in this area, highlights the key data associated with the importance of youth transitions, suggests a framework for understanding the strategies in place in Victoria and internationally, and proposes possible scenarios for future provision in postcompulsory education and training, noting the importance for policymakers and practitioners of choosing an effective way forward.