The Academy of the Social Sciences in Australia makes a succinct case in its one-page submission to the Senate committee reviewing the government’s bills to establish a jobs and skills policy agency

The academy is all for it and points to help that academy fellows, “at the forefront of labour market research, data and analysis,” can provide.

The main message is that VET is the place to be and the social sciences already are.

“The Academy welcomes the agency’s expanded focus on the resourcing and funding requirements of the vocational education and training system. 44 per cent of all VET students are enrolled in courses in the social sciences, including business, education, and allied health. These graduates can be found at the frontline in vital industries with critical skill shortages such as childcare, aged care, education and training and health, among others.