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Advancing Australia's 'Human Capital Agenda'

Chairman's speech

Gary Banks gave the fourth Ian Little Lecture in Melbourne on 13 April 2010. The Lecture series is sponsored by the Victorian Government and Monash University.

  • Contents

Introduction

What is 'human capital' and why is it important?

How is Australia performing?
A mixed international report card
Going backwards in 'foundation skills'?

COAG's Human Capital Reform Agenda
The Commission projected significant (qualified) benefits
What social rate of return?

The fundamental drivers: teachers and governance
Restoring quality teaching
Remuneration issues
Governance is fundamental

Learning about what works best
The COAG framework holds promise
Priorities for evaluation and review

A final comment

References