Key competencies are the generic abilities (integrated knowledge, skills and understandings) that everyone needs for effective participation in work, education and adult life. These competencies are: collecting, analysing and organising information communicating ideas and information planning and organising activities working with others and in teams using mathematical ideas and techniques solving problems using technology. Key competencies are the tools for putting general education to work. They are essential if students are to participate effectively in emerging patterns of work organisation and a world of increasingly rapid change. They apply to work generally rather than to specific occupations or industries and they will help people participate effectively in further education and in adult life. These competencies are sometimes referred to as the 'Mayer key competencies' after Eric Mayer, Chair of the Committee that proposed the competencies in 1992.

Generic competencies that are essential for effective participation in the workplace. Generally, key competencies refer to the Mayer Key Competencies.

Any od several generic skills or competencies considered essential for people to participate effectively in the workforce. Key competencies apply to work generally, rather than being specific to work in a particular occupation or industry. The Finn Report (1991) identified six key areas of competence that were subsequently developed by the Mayer committee (1992) into seven key competencies: collecting, analysing and organising information; communicating ideas and information; planning and organising activities; working with others and in teams; using mathematical ideas and techniques; solving problems; and using technology. Source: Department of Education, Science and Training, National Training System Glossary.