WORK-RELATED TRAINING

Work-related training is one example of adult learning (or non-formal learning). With businesses adopting new technologies and older Australians remaining in the workplace for longer, work-related training plays a crucial role in developing and sustaining skilled and competent employees. For the individual, work-related training may help enhance personal and professional development and build new capabilities for career advancement or a change in occupation. For businesses, it can improve workplace performance and productivity.

In 2009, almost three-quarters (74%) of employed people had participated in work-related training in the 12 months prior to interview. A large proportion of these people (72%) had completed the training during paid work hours. Persons employed full-time were more likely to participate in work-related training than those employed part-time (79% compared with 62%), most likely due to those employed part-time having less contact hours at work (ABS 2009a). A greater proportion of employed people in the public sector (80%) had participated in work-related training compared with those in the private sector (73%).

For more commentary on work-related training see Older Australians.