Government Backs Thousands of New Apprentice and Trainee Jobs

Prime Minister Scott Morrison has today announced the expansion of its targeted wage subsidy program for apprentices and trainees, as part of the Australian Government’s National Economic Recovery Plan.

HVIA Chief Executive Todd Hacking says the announcement today is welcome news for all industries that rely heavily on apprentices. 

“The heavy vehicle industry is one of these industries,” Mr Hacking said.

“We know that our industry is experiencing a faster than predicted recovery; we are aware that an apprenticeship is a great way to commence a career in the heavy vehicle industry.”

Mr Hacking said HVIA is keen to ensure the Government’s incentive schemes are targeting the right areas as the JobKeeper scheme winds down.

“Just last week at our Queensland State Committee meeting, an HVIA member lamented the difficulty in attracting good, young apprentices,” he said. 

“This is commentary that HVIA regularly hears from members in other forums and, in part, why we are investing in the Jobs Hub during the Brisbane Truck Show.”

The Jobs Hub activation at the South Bank Piazza will showcase career opportunities to the broader community from 13 to 16 May.

“The fact that 100,000 apprenticeships were fully subscribed, shows that the future leaders of the industry are keen to take up a trade,” Mr Hacking added.

The Boosting Apprenticeship Commencements Program will now become demand driven and expanded for a full 12 months for new apprentices and trainees signed up prior to 30 September 2021.

It is estimated that this demand driven expansion will generate around 70,000 new apprentice and trainee places, with the Government investing around $1.2 billion.

Prime Minister Scott Morrison said training and skills were at the core of the Government’s response to the economic challenges faced by the COVID-19 recession.

“Creating jobs, generating economic opportunities and boosting the skills of workers right across Australia are at the heart of our National Economic Recovery Plan, as we build back from the COVID-19 recession,” the Prime Minister said.

“Last week’s National Accounts showed the comeback of the Australian economy is underway, however many businesses still need support and it’s important our apprentices and trainees get opportunities to boost their skills and stay employed.”

Mr Hacking said the heavy vehicle industry offers diverse and rewarding career paths.

“This will give a start to thousands of boilermakers, welders, and diesel mechanics,” he said.

“Our industry is full of wonderful examples of how often those young people progress into roles as international executives.”

“The Australian community has really come to appreciate how important our industry is to Australia’s resilience, and there has never been a better time to get on board.”

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HVIA members looking to get involved in the Jobs Hub at South Bank during the 2021 Brisbane Truck Show can find out more here [PDF].

Further information on the support available to eligible businesses and employees is available at: https://www.dese.gov.au/boosting-apprenticeship-commencements