Adult Skills and Knowledge for the Smart State
Education and training should not begin and end with the school system. We must continue to learn throughout our lives in order to:
- improve employment opportunities
- reduce the risk of unemployment
- become involved in our communities
- build an inclusive society in which everyone has equal opportunities
- assure the economic competitiveness of our firms and industries.
The Queensland Government is committed to adult Queenslanders' continual learning. This commitment is supported by 12 strategic actions.
Download the Adult Skills and Knowledge for the Smart State strategy [PDF 863kb]
Frequently asked questions
What courses are available for adult learners?
I have lots of skills but no formal qualifications. How can I get these skills recognised?
Where can I learn more computer skills?
How can I develop skills to ensure a prosperous retirement?
What courses are available for adult learners?
The type of training or study you can do is only limited by your imagination and desire to learn. You can choose to undertake formal study such as a diploma or certificate course or even embark on a university level qualification. If you want to acquire specific skills quickly or just enjoy learning, you could think about doing a short course or Adult and Community Education (ACE) course offered by your local TAFE institute.
I have lots of skills but no formal qualifications. How can I get these skills recognised?
The Queensland Government recognises the value of skills acquired through work, life experience and self-education. For information about recognition of prior learning contact your local TAFE institute or training college.
View more information about skills recognition including trade certification and recognition of overseas qualifications or call the Department of Employment and Training on 1300 369 935.
Where can I learn more computer skills?
Technology skills are essential in the knowledge economy. There are a number of ways you can access courses to develop or improve your computer skills:
- find out about the Adult and Community Education (ACE) courses offered by your local TAFE institute. Call 1300 30 8233 or visit the TAFE Queensland website.
- visit Learning Network Queensland or contact them on (07) 3225 8888.
- search the directory of adult and community learning from Lifelong Learning Council Queensland.
From 2004, the Technology Survival Skills program will fund not-for-profit organisations to conduct projects that enhance the ICT and Internet skills of the general community.
How can I develop skills to ensure a prosperous retirement?
Although compulsory retirement for most occupations was prohibited in 1994 in Queensland , very few people choose to work beyond the age of 65 and many retire earlier.
You may want to continue working after retirement to support your income and to gain the personal satisfaction of remaining in the workforce. This is often referred to as a retirement career. Learning new skills in readiness for retirement will be important for many adults.
Some things to think about:
- Do you have a favourite hobby that you would like to turn into a retirement career?
- Do you have skills you are not using in your current job? Could these provide you with a source of income in retirement?
- What skills could you develop that might provide you with work in later life?
- Could you work part-time for the last few years prior to your retirement to give you the time to undertake training and skills development?
Sites to help you:
TAFE Queensland Courses - For information about Adult and Community Education courses offered by TAFE institutes
Department of Communities - For a printable copy of A guide to retiring - Planning your lifestyle.
Centrelink - For information about the financial support and services provided by Centrelink to retiring adults.
Contact Apprenticeships info 1800 210 210 or Training Queensland 1300 369 935
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