Future of Work

During 2020-2021, the Future of Work project focused on equipping WA and its people for the changing world of work.

The genesis for the project came from discussions with members, many of who were contemplating the future of work given technological uptake, disruption and automation and what this would mean for Perth and its people.

The purpose of Committee for Perth’s Future of Work research project was to build a comprehensive understanding of how technology and automation combined with relevant global and workforce megatrends are impacting jobs, skill requirements and industry needs in Perth and the State.

Following 12 months of concerted effort to understand the impacts of the global COVID-19 pandemic, technology uptake and other forces of disruption, the final research report provides five key findings and outlines two scenarios, and makes 22 recommendations that aim to position the State at the forefront of change.

The Future of Work project was at the time the most dynamic research undertaken by Committee for Perth. It included seven FACTBase Bulletins, a large-scale community and business survey and numerous workshops and socialisation sessions with members.

The Future of Work: Equipping WA and its people to lead the Nation in the future world of work includes 22 recommendations that focus on the below seven key areas. To read the recommendations in detail, please download the report.

Report recommendations

1. Research & Development
   Increase State Government investment in R&D to levels that are at least comparable with that of other States and Territories so that WA isn’t left behind.
   
2. Economic Diversity
   Update the Diversify WA report to reflect technological change and global challenges including COVID-19 and disrupted trade relationships, and to increase the focus of the strategy on innovation, entrepreneurialism and human capital growth.
   
3. Climate Change
   Update the State’s climate policy to be the leading, most progressive policy Australia-wide and prepare and implement a strategy to grow the renewable energy network across the State; increase investment funds associated with future energy innovation; and develop breakthrough solutions to emissions reduction.
   
4. Skills Shortages & Development
   Initiate comprehensive reform of the education system (including early learning, school and higher education) and associated funding frameworks to ensure that they are globally competitive, are equitable, encourage human capital growth and equip students and workers with the skills needed for the future.
   
5. Equity
   Ensure support services are in place to enable people to participate in the workforce, including adequate access to childcare or assistance with other caring responsibilities.
   
6. Legislation & Regulation
   Governments to reform industrial relations and occupational health and safety legislation to ensure that it is up to date with current and emerging forms of work and workforce and workplace requirements.
   
7. Working from Anywhere
   Prepare workplace policies that ensure equitable access to flexible, agile and remote work for all people; maximise worker wellbeing; and address issues such as requirements for face-to-face learning, mentoring and collaboration.