Communities helping shape the future of employment services

More than 400 people from each state and territory across Australia have contributed their experiences and ideas to help shape the future reformed employment services system that better supports people into sustainable work.

Led by Minister for Employment and Workplace Relations Amanda Rishworth and Assistant Minister Patrick Gorman, the forums brought a diverse range of stakeholders together, including people with lived experience, employers, employment service providers, community organisations and registered training organisations.

Held in Melbourne, Brisbane, Darwin, Newcastle, Broome, Perth, Adelaide, Windsor, Launceston and Burnie, a consistent message emerged: employment services work best when support is tailored to the individual, informed by local communities and focused on people's strengths, aspirations and goals.

The feedback will help shape the Albanese Labor Government’s landmark reforms to employment services announced as part of the 2026 Federal Budget, ensuring more Australians can access the opportunities, security and dignity that come with work.

The Shaping the future of employment services Discussion Paper outlines the Government's vision for improving employment services, with submissions closing on 31 July.

There will be further ongoing consultation, including through targeted workshops, the Lived Experience Panel and First Nations specific engagement. 

More information is available on the Department of Employment and Workplace Relations’ website.

Quotes attributable to Minister for Employment and Workplace Relations Amanda Rishworth MP:

"Every person's pathway to work is different, and these conversations have reinforced the importance of a system that recognises individual circumstances and supports people to achieve their goals, regardless of their distance from the labour market.

"I want to thank everyone who shared their experiences and ideas. Their voices will help shape reforms that deliver better outcomes for job seekers, employers and communities.

"Work provides opportunity, dignity and connection, and we're building a system that helps more Australians realise those benefits."

Quotes attributable to Assistant Minister for Employment and Workplace Relations Patrick Gorman MP:

“The current system is not delivering the outcomes Australians deserve. Labor is focused on changing that.

“Our reforms are about helping Australians get the full benefits of living in this great country, one job at a time.

“There has been a genuine commitment from communities across Australia to help build a better employment services system.

“I thank all the participants and my colleagues across Australia that have helped foster this discussion to deliver better outcomes for Australians.”