FSO Project - Digital Knowledge Exchange
Diversity and Inclusion
The Digital Knowledge Exchange brings together states and territories to advance the digital workforce.
The project is driven by four key themes:
Diversity and Inclusion
Vocational Education and Training (VET) Workforce
Learning and Training Pathways
Industry Engagement
Diversity and Inclusion
This theme promotes diversity and inclusion in the digital workforce. It highlights initiatives to increase participation from underrepresented groups, such as women, Indigenous Australians, and people with disability.
Digital Priorities and Initiatives across States and Territories
Priorities and initiatives across the Digital Knowledge Exchange network of State and Territory Government departments.
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Delivering Skills Inclusively to Provide All Canberrans a Foundation for Lifelong Learning
Priority 1 of the ACT Government's Skilled to Succeed strategy focuses on inclusive skills development to maximise workforce participation and support lifelong learning for all Canberrans. This initiative ensures accessible, high-quality training in literacy, numeracy, and digital fluency, alongside occupation-specific and higher-level training.
Through providing affordable and flexible learning opportunities, the program aims to empower individuals from diverse backgrounds, including people with disabilities, women, carers, and older Canberrans, to achieve their career aspirations and contribute to the local economy.
Skilled to Succeed – Industry Action Plans 2024 (Advanced Technology) - Improved equity, access and participation
The Skilled to Succeed – Industry Action Plans, part of the ACT Government's strategy, focus on improving equity, access, and participation in the digital workforce, alongside addressing skills shortages and fostering inclusive economic growth.
These plans outline actions within the digital and technology sectors to promote diversity and provide targeted support for underrepresented groups. By enhancing opportunities for all, the initiative aims to create a highly skilled, inclusive, and responsive digital workforce in the ACT.
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Utilise Better Data on Diversity in the Digital Workforce
Project 3A, part of the NSW Digital Skills and Workforce Compact, focuses on leveraging data to enhance diversity within the digital workforce.
The initiative involves collecting and analysing comprehensive diversity data, which aims to identify gaps and opportunities for improvement. The insights gained will inform policies and programs that promote a more inclusive and equitable digital workforce in New South Wales.
Drive Diversity in the Digital Workforce through Mentoring and Networking Programs
Project 3B, part of the NSW Digital Skills and Workforce Compact, aims to enhance diversity within the digital workforce by implementing mentoring and networking programs.
These initiatives provide underrepresented groups with access to experienced mentors and professional networks, fostering career development and inclusion. Creating supportive environments and offering tailored guidance, Project 3B helps build a more diverse and equitable digital workforce in New South Wales.
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Exploring Ways to Reduce the Digital Divide
The Northern Territory Government is collaborating with federal and state governments to explore innovative solutions to reduce the digital divide. This initiative focuses on improving digital connectivity and access to technology for underserved communities, particularly in remote and regional areas. Addressing barriers such as affordability, infrastructure, and digital literacy, the project aims to ensure that all Territorians can participate fully in the digital economy and society.
Digital Futures
Digital Futures aims to equip residents with the digital skills needed for the future workforce. This program focuses on enhancing digital literacy, providing access to technology, and supporting innovative projects that drive digital transformation.
By fostering collaboration between government, industry, and community organisations, Digital Futures seeks to create a digitally inclusive society where all Territorians can thrive in the digital age.
Aboriginal Students Aspiration Program
The Aboriginal Students Aspiration Program is designed to inspire secondary school Aboriginal students to pursue careers in fields such as cyber security, engineering, and space.
This initiative engages students, parents, schools, and the business community in a collaborative effort to improve educational and employment outcomes. By providing targeted support and creating pathways to exciting career opportunities, the program aims to empower Aboriginal students to achieve their full potential.
Women in STEM
As part of the NT Government’s commitment to supporting women in leadership and STEM careers, the NT Department of Industry, Tourism and Trade has been recognised as a Women in STEM Champion for the Australian Academy of Science Women in STEM Decadal Plan. The STEM Decadal Plan supports diversity in the workplace through their vision for the STEM ecosystem to attract, retain and progress girls and women in STEM education and careers.
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Indigenous Knowledge Centres
The Indigenous Knowledge Centres (IKCs) initiative, supported by the Queensland Government, aims to bridge the digital divide impacting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities in regional and remote areas.
With a $9 million investment, the program enhances the digital capability of IKCs and establishes new IKCs in Doomadgee, Kowanyama, and Mornington Island. Additionally, the Deadly Digital Communities program collaborates with regional councils to co-design digital literacy activities, fostering digital inclusion and empowerment.
Deadly Digital Communities Program
The Deadly Digital Communities Program, a partnership between the State Library of Queensland and Telstra, aims to close the digital divide for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities across Queensland.
This initiative delivers place-based, co-designed digital literacy programs through Indigenous Knowledge Centres and public libraries. By providing access to technology and digital skills training, the program empowers First Nations people to unlock new opportunities and enhance their digital capabilities.
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Digital Inclusion Strategy
The Digital Inclusion Strategy in South Australia is a comprehensive initiative aimed at ensuring equitable access to digital services for all South Australians. This strategy is being developed with the goal of enhancing the state's digital presence and improving customer engagement. The initiative involves development of a whole-of-government strategy that articulates a shared vision for digital inclusion over 3-5 years.
Girls in STEM
The Girls in STEM initiative aims to encourage and support girls and young women to pursue careers in STEM. This program focuses on providing early and sustained intervention to promote innovation and address gender disparities in STEM fields.
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Digital Inclusion Strategy
The Digital Inclusion Strategy in South Australia is a comprehensive initiative aimed at ensuring equitable access to digital services for all South Australians. This strategy is being developed with the goal of enhancing the state's digital presence and improving customer engagement. The initiative involves development of a whole-of-government strategy that articulates a shared vision for digital inclusion over 3-5 years.
Girls in STEM
The Girls in STEM initiative aims to encourage and support girls and young women to pursue careers in STEM. This program focuses on providing early and sustained intervention to promote innovation and address gender disparities in STEM fields.
Victoria’s Cyber Strategy Mission Delivery Plan (2024-2025)
Priority 2 of the Victorian Government’s Cyber Strategy Mission Delivery Plan (2024-2025) focuses on boosting cyber security skills, talent and career pathways as a priority initiative. It includes targeting VET learners, women and talent migration support to address critical skills needs.
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Autism Academy for Software Quality Assurance
The Autism Academy for Software Quality Assurance (AASQA) is a pioneering initiative aimed at leveraging the unique talents of individuals on the autism spectrum.
The program provides specialised training, education, and mentoring to prepare participants for careers in software testing. By creating pathways to valued, long-term employment, AASQA addresses the industry's need for skilled software testers while promoting inclusion and diversity in the workforce.
Digital Inclusion Project
The Digital Inclusion Project aims to bridge the digital divide by providing access to technology, digital skills training, and support services to underserved communities.
This initiative focuses on enhancing digital literacy, ensuring affordable internet access, and promoting the use of digital tools for education, employment, and social inclusion. Collaborating with local organisations and stakeholders, the project strives to create a more inclusive digital environment for all Western Australians.
Promoting Females in the Workforce
The Promoting Females in the Workforce initiative is part of Western Australia's broader plan for gender equality, outlined in the "Stronger Together" strategy. This initiative focuses on increasing female participation in the workforce by addressing barriers to employment, providing support for career advancement, and promoting flexible work arrangements.
By fostering an inclusive work environment and implementing policies that support women's career growth, the initiative aims to create a more equitable and diverse workforce in Western Australia.
Commonwealth initiatives
National-level diversity and inclusion initiatives are aimed at improving digital skills across Australia. This includes government policies, funding opportunities, and collaborative efforts between federal and state governments to promote digital capability and workforce development.
Digital Sisters
The Digital Sisters program by Good Things Foundation Australia, funded by the Australian Government, empowers refugee and migrant women by enhancing their digital skills and confidence.
Partnering with 55 community organisations, the program offers training and support to help women access online services, engage with their communities, and support their children's digital learning.
First Nations Digital Inclusion Plan
The First Nations Digital Inclusion Plan (FNDIP) is a strategic initiative by the Australian Government aimed at achieving equal levels of digital inclusion for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people by 2026.
Developed in consultation with First Nations communities, businesses, and government agencies, the FNDIP focuses on improving digital access, affordability, and ability. By fostering collaboration across various sectors, the plan supports the creation of a secure, sustainable, and inclusive digital future for First Nations people.
Women in STEM Cadetships and Advanced Apprenticeship Program
The Women in STEM Cadetships and Advanced Apprenticeship Program is an Australian Government initiative designed to increase the participation of women in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) fields.
The program provides grants to higher education providers and employers to support women in studying part-time while continuing their careers. By offering flexible learning pathways and financial support, the program aims to upskill women in STEM, fostering a more diverse and inclusive workforce.
Skills for Education and Employment Program
The Skills for Education and Employment (SEE) Program is an Australian Government initiative that provides free language, literacy, numeracy, and digital skills training to eligible Australians. The program helps individuals overcome skills barriers and enhance employability.
Delivered by a national network of training providers, the SEE Program offers both accredited and non-accredited training, including workplace-based options, to support learners across metropolitan, regional, and remote areas.
Women in IT Executive Mentoring
The Women in IT Executive Mentoring (WITEM™) program, sponsored by Dell, is designed to support talented Executive Level 2 (EL2) women in the Australian Public Service (APS) who aspire to leadership roles in the data and digital landscape.
This 12-month program pairs senior executive mentors with female EL2 mentees, providing customised guidance, career development feedback, and networking opportunities. By fostering professional relationships and offering new perspectives, WITEM™ aims to develop the next generation of female leaders in IT.
Case Studies
Examples of successful digital skills initiatives, showcasing impact, insights and best practices.
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Breaking Barriers: How Ellen and Nora are creating a more even workplace
“The Women’s Economic Equality Taskforce showed that $128 billion can be unlocked by removing persistent barriers to women’s participation in economic activity.” – Dr Nora Koslowski, co-founder, EVEN Careers.
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Books and Bytes: A novel approach to closing the digital divide
“Libraries offer a safe space where people feel comfortable asking about technology - questions they often hesitate to ask at home, at work, or in public settings.” - Katie Gatward, Technology Support Officer, Helensvale Library.
FSO projects and resources
Developed by Future Skills Organisation (FSO) to support digital skills development.
First Nations Participation in Technology
The decline in participation in tech qualifications by First Nations peoples is multifaceted. There is a digital divide in Australia, with limited access to high-speed internet and digital devices for some First Nations communities (especially remote regions), hindering inclusion in tech-focused training, especially if it is delivered online.
Gender Equality in the Workforce: Challenges and Opportunities
The technology sector has some larger than industry average gender pay gaps, with differences reported among major tech companies. Twenty-one per cent of technology occupations are occupied by women, which is lower than the average across all occupations (48%). This low participation rate may be partly attributable to the pay gap in the sector. Median pay gaps above 15% are common, with some companies surpassing 50%.
