- Assistant Minister for Vocational Education and Skills
New data released today has revealed a 4.6 per cent increase in the number of Australians commencing training in non-trade professions from a year earlier.
The largest increases were for sales assistants, salespersons and child carers.
Assistant Minister for Vocational Education and Skills, the Hon Karen Andrews MP said the latest data published by the National Centre for Vocational Education Research (NCVER) shows recent growth in non-trade apprenticeships and traineeships.
“This result indicates people continue to get the benefit of learning on-the-job as an apprentice or trainee,” Minister Andrews said.
“The Government is concerned, however, with the same data also revealing a drop in the number of people starting an apprenticeship.”
NCVER figures show overall apprentice and trainee commencements were down by 3.7 per cent compared to the same period last year.
“We are actively working to improve the system through a number of initiatives, including the Australian Apprenticeship Support Network - introduced to assist employers to recruit, train and retain apprentices while also helping apprentices get the support they need to complete their training,” Minister Andrews said.
“The Government will invest $9.2 million to fund five new industry-led training models. The project will lead to greater skills development, choice and industry acceptance.
“Funding of $6.82 million has also been made available to test multi-industry pre-apprenticeship models that are giving young people hands-on industry experience and a pathway into an apprenticeship or traineeship.
“Lifting the status of apprenticeships in Australia is also high on the Government’s agenda. Last week, to mark National Skills Week, we launched a series of videos featuring former NRL stars’ experiences gaining apprenticeships to inspire a new generation of young Australian apprentices.
“I am committed to working with my state and territory colleagues, employers and apprentices to ensure Australia’s apprenticeships system is geared to face the challenges now and into the future,” Minister Andrews said.
The Australian vocational education and training statistics: Apprentices and trainees 2016, March quarter report is available from www.ncver.edu.au.