A partnership between the Australian Federal Government and the Tech Council has produced a new pathway to tech education and employment for students in Australia, ready to service an expanding and ever more important tech sector on Aussie shores.
The initiative, being delivered as part of the Tech Council’s Year13 education program, will be free for all young Australians aged 14-15 from today, focusing particularly on offering pathways to tertiary education for post-school leavers and those with a disability.
“Tech jobs are amongst the fastest-growing and best-paid jobs in our economy. We need to see more young Australians moving into these critical jobs of the future,” Tech Council chair Robyn Denholm said.
“I particularly encourage more young Australians from diverse backgrounds to explore tech careers, it’s a very egalitarian industry, we want more women, Indigenous Australians, people with disability and those living in our outer suburbs and regional Australia, to have the ability to access these fulfilling careers.”
“As someone who grew up in south-western Sydney and attended a public high school, I know first-hand that your background shouldn’t stop you from dreaming big in tech.”
Support from leading tech companies
The program has garnered support from some of the biggest names in tech and finance, including Microsoft, Commonwealth Bank of Australia and nbn®, who have signed up as initial partners.
They will be delivering virtual work experience opportunities in high-demand roles like software and networking engineering, cyber security and data science as part of the program.
“Microsoft is thrilled to participate in this groundbreaking program, which perfectly aligns with our commitment to enhancing the digital skills and capability of Australians,” said John Galligan general manager, Corporate External and Legal Affairs at Microsoft.
“By providing accessible, inclusive and practical tech job pathways, we are not only preparing young Australians for the future – we are actively shaping a diverse and dynamic workforce that is essential for our national progress.”