FSO Skills Accelerator-AI Launches to Close Australia’s AI Skills Gap
The Asia Future Skills Organisation (FSO) and Microsoft have teamed up to introduce the FSO Skills Accelerator-AI, a new partnership connecting employers, industry, and training providers. This initiative is focused on addressing the growing AI skills gap across Australia by delivering inclusive, scalable training programs through the Vocational Education and Training (VET) system.
Unveiled at FSO’s National Forum in Canberra, the program targets both learners and more than 30,000 VET educators and administrators. Over 12 months, the pilot will test a collaborative model that enhances cooperation between industry and education providers. Key aspects include resource sharing, direct engagement, large-scale content delivery, and peer learning support.
The Hon Andrew Giles MP, Federal Minister for Skills and Training, highlighted the importance of equipping the workforce with skills relevant for a changing job market. He emphasized that this initiative demonstrates how industry and training sectors can collaborate to create practical and scalable learning solutions.
Support for this effort comes from major players such as TAFE QLD, TAFE SA, Commonwealth Bank, Adobe, and others, including educational and community institutions. The Future Skills Organisation, funded by the Australian Government Department of Employment and Workplace Relations, is dedicated to partnering with industry and vocational training to meet critical skill demands.
A Unique Chance for Workforce Transformation
Generative AI is expected to transform Australian workplaces and is projected to add $115 billion annually to the national economy by 2030. Meeting this opportunity requires fast, effective skill development across the workforce. Australia's VET sector, which serves over 5 million learners each year, plays a vital role in preparing people for AI-driven roles.
Patrick Kidd OBE OAM, CEO of Future Skills Organisation, pointed out that AI is already increasing productivity in many industries. To benefit fully, educators and learners need timely access to the right skills and confidence. This partnership with Microsoft and leading training providers is focused on building a workforce equipped for today’s and tomorrow’s AI demands.
About the FSO Skills Accelerator-AI
The Accelerator-AI program is a collaborative effort between industry experts, educators, and trainers to co-design AI education and share resources. Its goal is to reach learners and tens of thousands of VET educators to set a new standard for AI capability nationwide. The program integrates AI training into national standards, helping Australians keep up with advancements and thrive economically.
Rachel Bondi, Corporate Vice President SME Microsoft Asia and Independent Director at FSO, stated that this partnership creates a clear pathway for national workforce development. Microsoft supports the initiative as part of its broader commitment to AI skilling, aiming to empower 1 million Australians and New Zealanders by 2026.
Future Skills Organisation and Microsoft invite government, industry, and community partners to join this effort. More details on participation are available on the FSO website.
Voices from Industry and Education
- Lee Hickin, Executive Director, National AI Centre: “Embedding AI learning in vocational education ensures educators are supported to deliver practical, job-ready AI knowledge and skills.”
- Nick Clare, General Manager Commercial Development, VCCI: “This initiative helps scale AI skilling, especially for small and medium businesses, unlocking real productivity gains.”
- TAFE South Australia: “The VET system offers the scale and industry alignment needed to provide Australians with the AI skills essential for success in the economy.”
For educators interested in expanding their AI skills offerings, resources and courses are available through platforms like Complete AI Training, which provides up-to-date AI programs suited for various education and training roles.
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