The minister for skills, Chris Evans has applauded Australia’s trainees and apprentices, stating their importance as one of the driving forces of the nation’s economy.
Officially launching the second annual National Skills Week tonight (August 14), Mr Evans said training Australians in specialised trades was intrinsic to supporting industry demand for skilled workers.
“To compete for the jobs of tomorrow, Australians will need to be increasingly more qualified,” Mr Evans explained.
“Better skills not only lead to better pay and employment outcomes work for the individual, but an investment in skills is also an investment in higher productivity and a sustainable economy.”
The National Skills Week, which takes place from August 27 to September 2, is dedicated to raising awareness about the importance and increasing prevalence of practical and vocational learning – educating Australians about the opportunities it presents.
Mr Evans said vocational training opportunities were not restricted to young Australians, instead they were available to everyone of all ages and backgrounds, including those interested in adult and mature age apprenticeships.
Tonight’s launch of the annual event will be attended by 350 training, skills and industry stakeholders, including celebrity hairdresser and Australian Apprenticeship Ambassador Renya Xydis.
“An apprenticeship or traineeship, in any occupation, allows you to learn from people who are experienced and willing to share with you the technical side of the trade,” Ms Xydis explained.
