Research publications and reports
The Queensland Department of Employment and Training makes a number of reports and research papers available. Choose one of the links below to access all available research publications and reports.
2005 publications
2004 publications
2003 publications
2002 publications
2001 publications
2000 publications
Publications from previous years
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2005 publications
In alphabetical order.
Commuting patterns of Sunshine Coast residents and the impact of education [PDF 25kb] or abstract
(May 2005)
This paper provides an analysis of commuting patterns within the Sunshine Coast and between the Sunshine Coast and neighbouring Local Government Areas in south east Queensland.
Evaluating the outcomes of labour market programs (Part A) [PDF 178kb] or abstract
(January 2005)
This paper introduces some statistical techniques for measuring the impact of labour market programs.
Evaluating the outcomes of labour market programs (Part B) [PDF 80kb] or abstract
(March 2005)
Part B of the paper introduces two econometric techniques to deal with selection bias when selection to treatment is based on characteristics unobservable to the researcher.
Evaluation of the Get Set for Work Program - July 2005 [PDF 454kb]
This report provides the results of the evaluation of the 2004 Get Set for Work trial area sites
Investment in training and public policy - a review [PDF 76kb] or abstract
(March 2005)
Many governments in developed economies have subsidised training or introduced polices aimed at encouraging increased investment in training, evidently on the belief that the market, if left to itself, will result in an underinvestment in training. This paper intends to review the literature dealing with the decision to invest in training.
Labour market research
The Queensland Department of Employment and Training provides specialist research into Queensland labour market behaviour and trends. The department also enters into collaborative arrangements with key research centres from government, industry and academia to undertake research and analytical activities.
Multicultural Action Plan [PDF 138kb]
The Multicultural Action Plan outlines the Department of Employment and Training and Corporate Solutions Queensland departmental multicultural initiatives to be actioned during 2006-2007. These initiatives support and strengthen multiculturalism in Queensland. The plan is committed to promoting the economic and cultural benefits of diversity, ensuring full and easy access to departmental services for all, assisting community development and participation and promoting community relations and cohesion.
Perspectives on skill shortages [PDF 64kb] or abstract
(January 2005)
The topic of skill shortages has reemerged as an important issue with calls for increased levels of government intervention to alleviate this problem. In order for intervention to be successful it is important that there is some understanding of the economics of skill shortages. This document aims to provide a brief outline of the economics of skill shortages as well as evaluating the effects that different responses aimed at alleviating such shortages may have.
2004 publications
In alphabetical order.
Achieving quality in vocational education and training: the Queensland experience [PDF 361.4kb]
(January 2004)
This report details Queensland's approach to its quality agenda, with particular reference to achievements in the 2002-2003 financial year. It features key initiatives implemented during the year and describes how the state is meeting the challenge of achieving quality beyond compliance.
An analysis of success and failure in the Australian labour market using the HILDA dataset [PDF 217kb] or abstract
(June 2004)
Data from the first wave of the Household Income and Labour Dynamics Australia survey is used to examine labour market success and failure in the Australian labour market.
Changes in industrial and spatial concentration in Queensland's regional labour markets, 1986-2001 [PDF 46kb] or abstract
(September 2003)
This paper provides a descriptive analysis of the changes in industrial and spatial concentration that has occurred in Queensland's Local Government Areas over the period 1986 to 2001.
Evaluating employment outcomes of TAFE graduates in Queensland [PDF 107kb] or abstract
(December 2004)
This paper introduces some techniques for measuring the effect of a social program, using the NCVER's Student Outcomes Survey as an example.
Evaluating long-term employment outcomes of module completers in Queensland [PDF 102kb] or abstract
(December 2004)
This paper applies the 'propensity score' matching method to reduce the differences in the observed characteristics of module completers and TAFE graduates who participated in the NCVER's Down the Track (DTT) Survey.
Macroeconomic impacts of an ageing population: a literature review [PDF 69kb] or abstract
(August 2004)
The economic impact of ageing has been well researched by academics around the world. This paper summarises some major findings based on several landmark theoretical models of economic growth and a number of large scale computer simulations performed by the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and development (OECD), Economic and Social Research Institute (ESRI) of the Japanese Cabinet Office and the Bank of England in recent years.
Mutual dependence and feedback between youth and adult labour markets in Australia [PDF 196kb] or abstract
(July 2004)
This paper examines the extent of this association by exploring the relationship between the youth and adult labour markets within a dynamic framework using a model of mutual dependence and feedback designed by Geweke (1982) and developed, in a labour market context, by Bruno and Crazes (1998). This paper examines the structure of the youth and adult labour market and examines trends in employment and unemployment.
Quantitative social policy evaluation [PDF 60kb] or abstract
(November 2004)
This paper explains the rationale and introduces the basics of quantitative social policy evaluation.
Regional economic instability: the role of industrial diversification and spatial spillovers [PDF 68kb] or abstract
(March 2004)
Within regional science there has been a long history of interest in the relationship between economic instability and regional diversification. Despite this interest there are many unresolved issues in the literature and while regional economic theory suggests that greater diversity will make regional economies more stable, the evidence is far less convincing. In addition, very little is known about how other variables affect the level of instability experienced by regional economies. This paper intends to clarify some of these points, with developments in the field of spatial data analysis meaning that additional insights may be gathered using these techniques.
Sources of regional income inequality - an examination of small regions in Queensland [PDF 576kb] or abstract
(December 2004)
In this study, data for the 125 Local Government Areas of Queensland is used to explain the cross sectional variation in the Gini coefficient of income inequality.
Spatial variation in unemployment - a literature review [PDF 88kb] or abstract
(April 2004)
This paper provides a review of relatively large body of literature which explores various aspects of the spatial variation in unemployment.
The effect of industrial diversification on regional economic performance [PDF 1,250kb] or abstract (and to download document in parts)
(June 2004)
The effect of economic diversification on regional economic performance has received considerable attention from regional scientists and a number of themes have emerged from this literature. In particular, it has frequently been suggested that a more diversified regional economy will experience greater economic growth and stability.
The role of education in regional income determination - a cross sectional study of small areas in Queensland [PDF 407kb] or abstract
(December 2004)
This study explores cross regional variation of income within Queensland. This is done using data from the 2001 Census of Population and Housing conducted by the Australian Bureau of Statistics.
The role of migration in regional labour market adjustment: the case of Queensland during the 1996-2001 intercensal period [PDF 152kb] or abstract
(September 2004)
The nature of disparities in regional unemployment rates has received considerable attention within the regional science literature. One avenue through which regional labour markets may adjust to these disparities is through migration. This paper evaluates the determinants of regional migration in Queensland using a gravity type migration model.
Work futures: Employability skills and attributes [PDF 617kb]
(June 2004)
This report details the findings of a Queensland Department of Employment and Training trial project, undertaken to explore factors affecting the implementation of the Employability Skills Framework. The framework was developed by the Business Council of Australia and the Australian Chamber of Commerce and Industry in 2002 as part of an investigation of Australia's need for a skilled workforce capable of meeting the needs of the future. The report was tabled at the National Training Quality Council in July 2004, as part of the ongoing debate about how to implement employability skills into training package delivery and assessment.
2003 publications
In alphabetical order.
A profile of public service departures in Queensland [PDF 57kb] or abstract
(July 2003)
This paper provides a brief profile and analysis of departures of staff from the Queensland public service.
Duration-sensitive unemployment rates [PDF 105kb] or abstract
(August 2003)
Inequality in the burden of unemployment in Australia is analysed using the HILDA dataset. Duration-sensitive unemployment rates are calculated for different demographic groups.
Employment growth in the Sunshine Coast local labour market: 1991 to 2001 [PDF 192kb] or abstract
(June 2003)
A recent study (Taylor & Birrell 2002) considered the higher than average unemployment rates on the Sunshine Coast as evidence that the Sunshine Coast local labour market is not providing sufficient jobs for the local population. However, the Sunshine Coast local labour market has experienced employment growth significantly in excess of the rest of Queensland over the last decade.
Employment Outcomes from Apprenticeships and Traineeships in Queensland [PDF 225kb]
David John, National Centre for Vocational Education Research (9 May 2003)
This report analyses employment outcomes from apprenticeships and traineeships in Queensland. Relevant comparisons are made with national benchmarks.
Field of study and employment outcomes: an analysis of TAFE graduates [PDF 101kb] or abstract
(July 2003)
An important aim of the vocational educational and training (VET) system is to improve the employability and employment outcomes of students. This paper analyses the National Centre for Vocational Education Research's Student Outcomes Survey to investigate the factors associated with employability of different individuals, controlling for time since completion of study and a range of demographic factors including age, sex and whether of an Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander (ATSI) or non English speaking background (NESB).
Licensing Issues Project report
Stairway to a License and Beyond (Licensing Issues Project report phase one)
The Queensland Department of Employment and Training is currently facilitating a national Licensing Issues Project aimed at identifying industry licensing issues and suggesting approaches to better accommodate these issues within the training package development and review process. Download:
- Volume1 [PDF 304kb] The findings identified by the project, and recommendations on addressing licensing issues in the training package development and review process.
- Volume 2 [PDF 608kb] Specific recommendations to support the integration of licensing standards within the vocational education and training sector.
- Volume 3 [PDF 752kb] The integration of Occupational Health and Safety load shifting licensing requirements within the vocational education and training system.
- Volume 4 [PDF 142kb] Additional feedback on Volumes 1, 2 and 3, as well as the Licensing Line News publication.
- PowerPoint presentation [PPT 177kb]
Middle Phase of Learning: A Report to the Minister [PDF 118kb]
Ministerial Advisory Committee for Education and Renewal (June 2003)
This report presents a set of theoretical underpinnings for the development of a policy framework for educational renewal and sets out recommendations for action by the Minister.
New Apprenticeship Trends in Queensland [PDF 401kb]
Ann Blyth and David John, National Centre for Vocational Education Research (22 April 2003)
The apprenticeship system in Queensland has undergone significant changes in the past 20 years. This report was commissioned to analyse Queensland's apprenticeship and traineeship system, and to acknowledge differences if any between Queensland's position and the overall national position.
Rates of Apprenticeship and Traineeship Non Completion in Queensland [PDF 231kb]
David John, National Centre for Vocational Education Research (11 April 2003)
This report ascertains rates of apprentice and trainee non completion within Queensland. These rates are compared against national benchmarks.
Recognition of Qualifications through Multiple Pathways report [PDF 554kb]
A National Consistency Project for the Australian National Training Authority conducted by the Queensland Department of Employment and Training, 2003.
Stepping stones to permanent employment with particular reference to the Queensland public service [PDF 174kb] or abstract
(July 2003)
It is widely believed that initial experience in temporary and/or casual employment may act as an important steeping stone to permanent or more desired employment. What is not known is how important the non standard route has become in labour market transition or whether it offers a preferred route to traditional job search methods. In this paper, labour force transition is investigated using data taken from a longitudinal database (MOHRI) covering staff movements in the Queensland public service.
Strategic Analysis of the Professional Development Needs of Vocational Education and Training Professionals/Stakeholders in Queensland [PDF 918kb]
Deborah Wilson Consulting Services Pty Ltd (6 June 2003)
This report presents the findings of a strategic professional project designed to review current professional development and identify current and future professional development needs for vocational education and training professionals and stakeholders. This report is also available in Microsoft Word TM format (1.3mb), and a report summary can be downloaded in both PDF (461kb) and Microsoft Word TM (611kb) formats.
The makeup of the Queensland public service in 2001 02: an application of the Maglen classification of occupational employment [PDF 50kb] or abstract
(July 2003)
The Maglen classification of occupations is applied to employment data from the Queensland government's Minimum Obligatory Human Resource Information (MOHRI) database. This classification provides an intuitive grouping of occupations according to their exposure to the global economy.
Turnover of permanent staff in the Queensland public service [PDF 109kb] or abstract
(July 2003)
This paper examines one aspect of labour force turnover, voluntary departures or quits, within the Queensland public service with the results being compared to similar activity in the private sector.
2002 publications
In alphabetical order.
Breaking the Unemployment Cycle initiative review [PDF 852kb]
(October 2002)
This review was prepared at the request of the Cabinet Budget Review Committee to enable the Government to consider the future of Breaking the Unemployment Cycle in light of an evaluation of the outcomes and its impact to date.
Demand for VET services in Queensland: projections from 2001 to 2020 [PDF 93kb] or abstract
(May 2002)
Projections of demographic change are an essential component for rational long term policy formulation in the vocational education and training area because they allow the identification of potential changes in the demand for future service delivery. This paper presents projections of the Queensland Vocational and Education Training (VET) sector by age, sex and provider type for the period 2001 to 2020. Results of the first stage of the development of a Queensland VET demand projections model are summarised.
Labour market transitions in Queensland: an application of data from the Queensland household survey [PDF 102kb] or abstract
(November 2002)
The Office of the Government Statistician (OGS) conducted the Queensland Household Survey during November and December 2001. In this paper, the labour force data are used to examine labour market transitions over a two year period. The results provide useful information for the formulation of policy on education, training and labour market mobility.
National Licensing Project report
A License to Skill (November, 2002)
Stenning and Associates Pty Ltd, in association with Peter Noonan Consulting, was engaged by the Australian National Training Authority in 2001 to undertake a comprehensive analysis of the inter relationship between occupational licensing and the National Vocational Education and Training System, particularly the implementation of training packages.
These reports are available as both a full report and an executive summary.
Regional variation in Queensland's unemployment rate [PDF 154kb] or abstract
(May 2002)
This paper provides an analysis of the variation in Queensland regional unemployment rates. This is done using data from the 1996 Census of Population and Housing.
Review of Adult Language, Literacy and Numeracy Framework [PDF 21kb]
(March 2002)
A review of Queensland Department of Employment and Training processes for responding to language, literacy and numeracy issues.
Review of the Printing and Graphic Arts Industry and Training Provisions [PDF 369kb]
Professor Victor J Callan, Callan Consulting Group Pty Ltd (28 October 2002)
This report examines the current challenges facing the printing and graphics arts industry and presents the findings of surveys of students, trainees, apprentices and graduates of printing programs, as well as presenting general issues raised by teachers, employers, and members of related industry bodies.
Review of Pathways Articulation through the Post Compulsory Years of School to Further Education, Training and Labour Market Participation [Zipped PDF's 2.27mb]
Professor Margaret Gardner (August 2002)
This review aims to contribute to the reforms necessary to meet the policy objectives of educational renewal by discussing a range of educational and training opportunities and presenting recommendations for increasing the successful participation of young people to Year 12, or its equivalent or beyond, to further education and training. The Joint Summary [PDF 118kb] of The Senior Certificate: A New Deal and the Review of Pathways Articulation is also available.
Senior Certificate: A New Deal [Zipped PDF's 952kb]
John A Pitman (June 2002)
The Senior Certificate: A New Deal is the result of a year long research project examining certification in senior education. The report discusses initiatives designed to ensure that as many young people as possible take up their entitlement to a full senior secondary education through reform of the entire certification process in Queensland. The Joint Summary [PDF 118kb] of The Senior Certificate: A New Deal and the Review of Pathways Articulation is also available.
Skills for employability: a review of key issues from the literature and implications for VET delivery [PDF 107kb] or abstract
(June 2002)
Research has generally relied on qualification levels and years of experience as proxies when exploring the impact of human capital stocks on labour market performance. This paper reviews the economics and education literature on the impact on employability of some of those capacities which have been perceived as 'unobservables'.
The changing skill composition of employment in Queensland [PDF 85kb] or abstract
(April 2002)
In this paper, the compositional change in occupations that has occurred in the Queensland Labour market over the period 1990 2001 is outlined.
The demand for skilled labour in Queensland [PDF 76kb] or abstract
(May 2002)
Recent evidence suggests that employment growth is favouring higher skilled workers, at the same time that our education system is producing large numbers of high skilled persons. This paper attempts to untangle the influence of supply and demand shifts on the employment of labour of various skill types for Queensland and Australia.
The quality of jobs in Queensland and Australia [PDF 100kb] or abstract
(June 2002)
This paper considers the debate over 'good and bad jobs', first exploring the very concept itself, particularly by which criteria a good job can be defined.
2001 publications
In alphabetical order.
Apprenticeships and Traineeships: Queensland Trends [PDF 361kb]
Prepared by Dr Larry Smith (March 2001)
The purpose of this report is to update apprenticeship and traineeship trend information to include activity during the 1999 2000 financial year. The 1998 report [PDF 557kb], the 1998 1999 update [PDF 680kb] and the March 2000 update (PDF 249kb) are also available.
Apprentice, Trainee and Employer Awareness and Opinion Studies [PDF 1.4mb]
Allan Bonsall, Allan Bonsall & Associates and Nick Parfitt, 2003 Research Works (June 2001)
This study focuses on key motivating factors and decision making considerations/processes for both employers and trainees/apprentices and reviews the importance and requirements of continuing education and training.
Equal Access? research report [PDF 709kb]
(October 2001)
The findings of the six action research projects into the access and equity of students with a disability and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students in vocational education and training, funded by the Australian National Training Authority Equity Development and Training Innovation Grant, 2000 2001.
Family friendly policies and firm performance: review of the relevant literature [PDF 240kb] or abstract
(December 2001)
This paper considers the link between family friendly policies and firm performance, and explores the possibility of empirical research using Australian data.
Moderation of Assessments in Vocational Education and Training [PDF 217kb]
Dr Graham S Maxwell, University of Queensland (January 2001)
Moderation refers to the process of comparing assessment judgements in relation to learning outcomes of different assessors in a variety of different contexts. This report assesses what might be possible, as well as inadvisable, in approaches to moderating assessment judgements in vocational education and training.
Regional unemployment: some aspects and policy issues [PDF 170kb]
(July 2001)
This paper identifies a number of features of regional employment and unemployment in Queensland.
Report on Apprenticeship and Traineeship Completions [PDF 471kb]
Victor J Callan, Professor and Head School of Management, University of Queensland (February 2001)
This report examines the factors influencing the successful completion of apprenticeships and traineeships in Queensland. A previous report (April 2000 PDF 181kb) is also available.
Some aspects of human capital investment in Queensland [PDF 338kb]
(April 2001)
A skilled and knowledgeable labour force is of critical importance to enhancing productivity and international competitiveness. The Department of Employment and Training has a particular responsibility for vocational education and training (VET).
Unemployment in Queensland: the regional dimension [PDF 74kb]
(July 2001)
Most analyses of unemployment in Queensland identify the regional dimension as having great significance. Despite the interest in regional issues, little rigorous analysis of regional Queensland labour markets has so far been undertaken. The aim of this paper is to examine the behaviour of unemployment rates across the Queensland regions, particularly the issue of convergence versus divergence.
2000 publications
In alphabetical order.
Evaluation of school based apprenticeships and traineeships [PDF 586kb]
Prepared by Paul Andrews, Applied Consulting Pty Ltd and Sandra Kenman, EdServ and Dr Larry Smith, Department of Employment, Training and Industrial Relations (August 2000)
This report evaluates the impact of the school based apprenticeship and traineeship program in Queensland.
Issues Impacting on the Quality of Assessment in Vocational Education and Training in Queensland [PDF 249kb]
Report prepared by Dr Larry Smith (March 2000)
This report identifies the major issues, practices and changes impacting on the quality of assessment of training in Queensland, and recommends ways in which assessment practices and approaches can be improved.
Untapped Potential: benefits for the individual, community and the workplace [PDF 564kb]
Access and Equity Unit (August 2000)
A report on adult community education in Queensland.
Youth labour markets, education and employment destination: results from the Queensland survey of youth [PDF 94kb] or abstract
(September 2000)
This paper uses the results of a special youth survey conducted by the Queensland Government to estimate the key determinants of youth employment attainment and employment destination.
Publications prior to 2000
In alphabetical order.
Factors Affecting the Training Market in Queensland [PDF 380KB]
Wiltshire Report (January 1997)
Recommendations to Hon. Santo Santoro, MLA arising from a consultation on issues affecting providers in the Queensland Vocational Education and Training Market.
Impact of User Choice on the Queensland Training Market [PDF 251kb]
Prepared by Dr Larry Smith (March 1999)
This report describes the market share trends of apprentices and trainees among private providers, TAFE Queensland and group training companies since the introduction of User Choice. The report also provides the perceptions of the users of the User Choice system and recommends ways to improve its implementation in Queensland.
Report of the TAFE Review Taskforce [Zipped PDF's 399kb]
Led by Kim Bannikoff The Bannikoff Report (December 1998)
This report, based on an extensive review of TAFE Institutes, their capabilities and their needs, is about re establishing TAFE Institutes in Queensland as key instruments of policy in vocational education and training.
Workskills Planning Process For Queensland Industries [PDF 202kb]
The Cullen Report (July 1998)
This report summarises the results of a project to develop a workskills planning process for Queensland industries.
Contact Apprenticeships info 1800 210 210 or Training Queensland 1300 369 935
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