Skill shortages remain in trades
3 February 2006
The Department of Labour has released reports on job vacancies and labour and skill shortages.
“It is important to note that labour and skill shortages remain very high. The data shows shortages are only just coming
off 30 year peaks”, said Darel Hall Executive Director of the Industry Training Federation.
The Department Job Vacancy report notes that: ‘Trade shortages are more acute than those in the professions.’ The Skills
in the Labour Market report notes ‘Acute shortages among trades workers measured in 2003 appear to have intensified in
2005.’
“In addition, Industry Training Federation work shows very strong demand across industries for management skill sets,
and increasing demand for generic skills such as literacy and numeracy.
“While those deficits are important to monitor and alleviate, there is also a story to be told about skill building in
industries to increase productivity per se”, said Darel Hall.
ENDS