Employment services proposals merit serious consideration

Media Release: 27 May 2026

The Australian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ACCI) welcomes the federal government putting forward proposals to reform Australia’s employment services system. 

Australia’s largest and most representative business network says the aim of the announced reforms reflect the need for a system that better aligns with employer needs and supports improved outcomes for jobseekers. 

ACCI Chief Executive Officer Andrew McKellar said employment services play a critical role in addressing workforce shortages and lifting participation across the economy. 

“Australia needs an employment services system that is more responsive, easier to navigate for all stakeholders, and better connected to the needs of business,” Mr McKellar said. 

“These reforms aim to improve job matching, reduce complexity, increase the capacity for wraparound supports, and ensure providers can focus on delivering outcomes. As such, they merit serious consideration. 

“As a member of the new Employment Services Reform Advisory Group announced by the Minister today, we look forward to engaging with the detail of the proposals to ensure that the outcomes progress the effectiveness of the system.” 

ACCI has consistently called for an integrated employment services system that reduces administrative burden, strengthens engagement with employers, and makes better use of technology to connect jobseekers with available opportunities. 

“Getting more Australians into work is essential to supporting business growth and lifting productivity,” Mr McKellar said. 

“An effective employment services system must deliver practical outcomes for employers, jobseekers and employment services providers, and operate in a way that is consistent, stable and easy to navigate.”