The federal government is introducing reforms to the apprenticeship system to address growing concerns about a looming skills shortage.
Announcing the initiative last week (October 19), federal minister for skills Chris Evans said the scheme will offer more incentives to employers to take on new apprentices in specific trades.
It is expected the revamped apprenticeship system will result in an additional 21,000 carpenters, electricians, plumbers and construction tradespeople recruited nationwide.
The changes will offer increased incentives to businesses for employing apprentices in areas that are experiencing skills shortages, with an initial focus on the construction sector.
“This means thousands more young Australians will have the opportunity to learn a trade and access the high-paid, high-skilled jobs in our economy,” Mr Evans explained.
Under the Kickstart initiative, small to medium sized businesses will receive an additional payment of $3,350 to take on new apprentices between December 2012 and February 2013.
“This increases the support to any apprentice in the traditional trade from $9,500 to $12,850,” Mr Evans said.
“These reforms ensure we deliver the right skills, in the right areas, at the right time.”
With more monetary apprentice support available to employers, hiring an employee as per the scheme’s requirements will give businesses a financial boost, as well as help them address labour shortages.
