This working paper explores how major economic forces are transforming the way Australians develop skills across their working lives. From rapid technological change to an ageing workforce, the paper highlights why lifelong learning is becoming essential for individuals, employers and the broader economy.

The paper presents evidence and insights on four key dynamics that are driving the growing importance of lifelong learning: 

• the pace of skill change
• structural change
• population ageing
• job mobility.

Across the four dynamics explored, three common threads emerged:

1. the value of adult learning is not limited to those seeking new jobs or entirely new skills
2. meeting Australia’s increasing adult learning needs is a shared challenge
3. additional learning does not automatically translate into positive labour market outcomes.