Australia’s most knowledgeable experts on critical minerals and electric vehicle (EV) skills will meet this week in the nation’s capital to discuss the future of the workforce and the way forward through coordinated action.
The highly anticipated, inaugural Critical Minerals and Electric Vehicle Skills Forum kicks off on October 26, 2023, in Canberra.
Organised by the Mining and Automotive Skills Alliance (AUSMASA), the forum will bring together key stakeholders with deep knowledge and understanding of the critical minerals and EV skills landscape.
They will work towards defining skills objectives and strategies that align with existing, transitioning and emerging occupations.
"We are excited to host the Critical Minerals and Electric Vehicle Skills Forum 2023, bringing together some of the great minds and leaders of the automotive and mining industry," AUSMASA CEO Dr Gavin Lind said.
"This event will play a pivotal role in shaping the future of our industries by fostering collaboration and driving innovation in skills development.
“We are delighted with the enthusiasm from industry leaders, policymakers and stakeholders who will join us in Canberra for this important discussion."
As the demand for critical minerals and EVs continues to grow, it is crucial to ensure a skilled workforce capable of meeting the industry's evolving needs.
In 2022, we saw the number of EVs on Australian roads almost double, growing from 44,000 to 83,000, according to research based on sales data released in the Electric Vehicle Council’s yearly recap. Of the 83,000 in circulation, 79% were battery EVs while 21% were plug-in hybrids.
A focus of the forum will be The Australian Critical Minerals Strategy 2023-2030, which sets out the government’s vision to grow Australia’s critical minerals sector. The Department of Industry, Science and Resources will provide an update on the Strategy.
Likewise, the Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water will update attendees about The National Electric Vehicle Strategy, which is aimed at increasing the uptake of EVs.
There will also be interactive workshops that will form the basis of a 10-point action plan for AUSMASA.
“The forum will provide a platform for knowledge sharing, collaboration and strategic planning to develop a robust and sustainable workforce for the critical minerals and EV sectors,” Dr Lind said.
“It provides an opportunity for attendees to address strategic workforce challenges and ensure qualifications are developed to meet their evolving needs."
