Training of existing workers: Issues, incentives and models
Authors:
Giselle Mawer, Elaine Jackson
Publication date: 
30 March 2005
Publication type:
Research report
Themes:
Industry and employers > Existing workers > General
Industry and employers > Industry and employer views > General
Industry and employers > Specific industries > Construction
Industry and employers > Specific industries > Manufacturing
Industry and employers > Specific industries > Retail trade
Industry and employers > Training within the enterprise > On-the-job
ISBN:
1 920896 41 4 print; 1 920896 42 2 web
This report presents issues associated with incentives for training existing workers in small to medium-sized firms, identified through a small sample of case studies from the retail, manufacturing, and building and construction industries. While the majority of employers recognise workforce skill levels are fundamental to the success of the business, their understanding and support of the national vocational education and training sector varies markedly. Employers and employees tend to prefer informal, on-the-job training because the returns to the enterprise are more immediate. Accredited training which is supported by employers and employees is mainly driven by external mandates, such as occupational health and safety, licensing and contractual requirements and industrial awards.