Apprenticeships that work for more Australians
The Government is taking initial steps towards an improved apprenticeship system so apprenticeships work for more Australians. This will help to meet employer demand for trade and technical skills.
The Government will undertake further consultation during 2011 with employers, apprentices and other interested stakeholders on the Expert Panel's findings prior to taking the next steps in this important process.
Improving the effectiveness of apprenticeships
The Australian Apprenticeship system is the backbone of Australia's technical and trades skills. But it needs reform to overcome low completion rates, variable training quality, long periods with poor wages and a lack of mentoring support. The Government has already started to modernise Australia's Apprenticeship system, including:
- from 1 July next year, school students will be able to commence a new National Trade Cadetship — a recognised academic pathway for apprenticeships
- from 1 January this year, eligible apprentices will have been able to receive tax‑free bonus payments, up to $5,500 as they reach key milestones in their training.
As an initial response to the recent Expert Panel on Apprenticeships for the 21st Century report, the Government is investing an additional $201 million to set the course to a modernised and efficient apprenticeship system.
Reforming the apprenticeship system is vital to building stronger pathways to work and careers for young Australians. These first steps in reform provide support for apprentices to progress as they learn rather than serving time, more support for training through mentoring and assistance in and choosing the right training path.
