Just launched: The Commonwealth Bank jobs and skills of the future report
The future of work has been a central theme of my work for many years. Work sits at the very center of society, the economy, and our individual and collective identities. It may well be the domain that is most disrupted by technological and social change in coming years. And education is at the heart of how we can make these shifts as positive as possible.
As such I was delighted to be commissioned by Commonwealth Bank to create a report in collaboration with their team: The Commonwealth Bank jobs and skills of the future report (12.4MB), to share useful insights for individuals, families and organisations what we can do today to shape a positive future of work for all Australians.
The report has been launched this morning and can be downloaded here (12.4MB).
In coming days I will be sharing a number of elements of the report on my blog, as well as some of the media interviews stemming from the report. For now here is the introduction to the report, which summarises the core ideas. The report content is of course equally relevant to any countries, not just Australia.
INTRODUCTION
Creating a positive future of work is perhaps the single most important issue we face as a society. Australia’s future prosperity relies on all of us preparing for what is likely to be a very different world of jobs ahead.
Accelerating technology and social shifts are driving massive change in the economy, with fast-paced innovation transforming industries old and new and generating tremendous new opportunities for value creation.
Rising connectivity is continuing to enable digital disruption and more jobs now than ever before can be performed anywhere in the world. Meanwhile the rise of machine capabilities is beginning to impact a number of specific tasks.
The capabilities and skills that will be most valued are changing. We need to develop Australians’ skills in the disciplines of the future, notably science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM). In addition, we need to foster the uniquely human capabilities that keep us ahead of machines, such as adaptability, creativity and relationships.
Each of these shifts place education at the heart of Australia’s future. Schools and universities need to prepare our children and young adults for the jobs of tomorrow, not those of today. We must all become life-long learners, embracing the joy of tapping our human potential.
If we want a flourishing economy and society for Australia in years to come, we must take action now. This report provides insights and recommendations that will help Australian individuals, families and organisations plan effectively for the future of jobs. Let us work together to create a prosperous future for Australia.
Ross Dawson
Futurist and Author
