Interfirm Cooperation in Training: Group Training in the UK and Australia

Abstract

This article examines employer cooperation in the provision of training in the UK and Australia. These countries both have market-based training systems where it might be thought there is little cooperative behaviour. Cooperative interfirm arrangements are, however, shown to be important, especially for the supply of intermediate level skills. The article compares the development of one of the most signficant forms of cooperative training, group training. Some striking differences exist between the two countries, in terms of the actual employment and direct training of apprentices. In both countries, the arrangements are heavily dependent upon government funding.