The nature of work in Australia is rapidly changing as technology drives innovation. This report provides a snapshot of today's Australian labour market, the forces that are shaping it, and the blind-spots that need to be addressed if we are to succeed in a competitive and disruptive 21st century global economy. Part one begins by exploring what the 'future of work' really means; Part two outlines the current state of Australia's labour market, identifying the underlying trends; Part three explores the challenges facing Australia's non-permanent workforce; Part four paints a picture of Austral
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The nature of work in Australia is rapidly changing as technology drives innovation. This report provides a snapshot of today's Australian labour market, the forces that are shaping it, and the blind-spots that need to be addressed if we are to succeed in a competitive and disruptive 21st century global economy. Part one begins by exploring what the 'future of work' really means; Part two outlines the current state of Australia's labour market, identifying the underlying trends; Part three explores the challenges facing Australia's non-permanent workforce; Part four paints a picture of Australian perspectives on the labour market and their own job prospects; Part five tables international responses to the changing nature of work; Part six puts forward recommendations to government and industry.
Key findings include: Australian workers, industries and governments will continue to be challenged by technological disruption for the foreseeable future; It's not just the gig-economy that's driving change; A focus on people, not only jobs is key; Around 8 per cent of Australians are employed as 'independent contractors', with slightly over 100,000 workers employed full-time in the 'gig economy' and around 20.6 per cent of the workforce are employed on a casual basis; Those who do work as contractors often miss out on basic workplace entitlements; An increasing number of independent contractors are not adequately covered by workers compensation, nor the types of insurance usually attached to superannuation accounts; Australian workers are underutilised, with many engaging in freelance work in addition to their main occupation; Despite predictions of widespread workplace disruption, more than a quarter of Australian workers believe their job will continue to exist in 50 years' time; The Australian workforce is increasingly mobile; Government has a key role to play - but industry must step up to the challenge, too.
Edited excerpts from publication and publisher's website.
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