Education and training help people to develop knowledge and skills that may be used to enhance their own wellbeing and that of the broader community. For an individual, education is widely regarded as a key factor in developing a rewarding career. For the nation, having a skilled work force is vital in supporting ongoing economic development and in improving living conditions.

Obtaining a vocational or higher education qualification allows individuals to engage with society, and may lead to fulfilling and rewarding careers.

Between 2000 and 2010, the proportion of people aged 25-64 years with a vocational or higher education qualification rose from 50% to 63%, continuing a trend seen for several decades.

This increase was largely driven by the rise in the proportion of people with a higher education qualification (i.e. a bachelor degree or above) - rising from 18% in 2000 to 27% in 2010. The proportion of people with a vocational qualification increased at a much slower pace, rising from 31% in 2000 to 35% in 2010, with most of this increase occurring prior to 2005.

For a more in-depth discussion about how education and training relates to progress and whether it is improving in Australia, please see the Education and training chapter in Measures of Australia’s Progress, 2010 (cat. no. 1370.0).