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Reinstating the Commonwealth Employment Service (CES) in Australia, particularly within the Bonner electorate, offers several compelling advantages:
- Enhanced Accountability and Consistency: Transitioning employment services back to a public model could address issues of inconsistency and lack of oversight observed in the current privatised system. A parliamentary review highlighted that the full marketisation of employment services has not delivered the desired outcomes, suggesting that a public provider could offer more reliable and uniform services.
. - Tailored Support for Vulnerable Groups: A public employment service can prioritise personalised assistance for vulnerable populations, such as individuals with disabilities, the long-term unemployed, and those in regional areas. This approach ensures that these groups receive the dedicated support necessary to overcome specific employment barriers.
. - Reduction of Market-Driven Pressures: Without the profit motives inherent in private providers, a public employment service can focus on sustainable employment outcomes rather than short-term placements. This shift encourages a more thoughtful approach to job matching, skills development, and career progression.
. - Addressing Systemic Issues and Enhancing Integrity: The current system has faced criticism for inefficiencies and integrity concerns, including faulty claims and inadequate services. For instance, job agencies under Workforce Australia were required to return over $8.5 million in faulty claims within a year, indicating systemic issues that a public model could potentially rectify.
. - Localised Economic Benefits in Bonner: The Bonner electorate has previously benefited only a little from significant skills investment, such as the $2 billion skills package aimed at economic growth. Re-establishing the CES could complement such initiatives by providing cohesive and locally tailored employment services, further stimulating regional economic development.
In summary, reintroducing the CES could lead to more accountable, personalised, and effective employment services, addressing current system shortcomings and better serving communities like Bonner.
Craig Hill is a Brisbane-based author, journalist, teacher, business consultant and social justice campaigner. He is the General Manager of the Australian Business and Leadership School.
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