The department "works to ensure Australians can experience the wellbeing and economic benefits that quality education, skills and employment provide."

Its primary focus was "to equip Australians — at all life and career stages — with knowledge, skills and attributes to live well, thrive at work and contribute to community life.

Jason Clare MP; the Minister for Employment, at dissolution the Hon.

Tony Burke MP; and the Minister for Skills and Training, at dissolution the Hon.

The department was formed by way of an Administrative Arrangements Order issued on 5 December 2019, effective from 1 February 2020.