In April, the Mining and Automotive Skills Alliance (AUSMASA) hosted its Strategic Workforce Advisory Panel (SWAP) meetings in Perth. 

Bringing together representatives from industry, unions, peak bodies, government, and the education sector, the sessions provided an opportunity to explore the key workforce challenges facing the mining and automotive industries and to align priorities for the months ahead. 

As an industry-led Jobs and Skills Council, AUSMASA places strong emphasis on direct engagement with stakeholders. Our SWAPs play a critical role in this approach, providing depth of knowledge and real-world insight that helps ensure vocational education and training (VET) programs remain relevant and responsive to industry needs. 

Key decision-makers within their respective organisations, SWAP members bring a broad range of perspectives to the table. Their insights inform workforce intelligence, training product development and broader policy advice, ensuring AUSMASA's work is grounded in current industry experience. 

This round of meetings focused on a deeper dive into the issues identified through ongoing stakeholder engagement, as they relate to AUSMASA's key priority areas: productivity, First Nations, gender inclusivity, qualifications reform, and technology and AI.  

A highlight of the Automotive SWAP session was a presentation from the Clontarf Foundation, which is dedicated to improving the education, discipline, life skills, self-esteem and employment prospects of young Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. The presentation provided valuable insight into the impact of targeted, community-led programs and the role industry can play in supporting pathways into employment. 

We encourage organisations to learn more about the Clontarf Foundation and consider how they can support this important work. 

The SWAP meetings coincided with AUSMASA's first Western Australian Member Sundowner, held at The Hub, Elizabeth Quay. Together, these events provided both a formal and informal platform for engagement, supporting meaningful discussion, knowledge sharing and stronger connections across the network. 

AUSMASA extends its thanks to all SWAP members for their ongoing contribution. Their time, expertise and commitment are critical to ensuring our work continues to reflect the needs and priorities of industry.

Learn more about the Mining and Automotive Strategic Workforce Advisory Panels.