Australian Workforce and Productivity Agency Repeal Bill 2014

Portfolio: Industry
Introduced: House of Representatives, 4 June 2014

1.1        The Australian Workforce and Productivity Agency Repeal Bill 2014 (the bill) seeks to repeal the Australian Workforce and Productivity Agency Act 2008 and abolish the Australian Workforce and Productivity Agency (AWPA).

1.2        The bill is accompanied by a statement of compatibility which states that the bill 'is compatible with human rights and does not raise any human rights issues.'[1]

1.3                  The committee considers that the bill does not appear to give rise to human rights concerns.

1.4                  However, the committee notes that the function of AWPA is to provide independent advice in relation to Australia's current, emerging and future skills and workforce development needs.[2]

1.5                  The explanatory memorandum for the bill notes that the abolishing of the AWPA is intended to 'strengthen resources and the capacity of the Department of Industry to provide targeted advice',[3] by incorporating AWPA's functions into the Department of Industry.

1.6                  The committee notes that, while the purpose of the bill is to streamline portfolio processes and provide for stronger linkages between skills and industry sectors,[4] any consequent reduction in effective advice on Australia's workforce development needs could result in a limitation on the right to work. The committee's assessment assumes that the policy of streamlining and reallocating AWPA's activities will be effective.

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