The ACTU warns that the Coalition’s apprenticeship incentive plan announced today neglects Australian apprentices and distracts from their poor track record in government.
The Coalition has today pledged to pay employers up to $12,000 for taking on new apprentices in critical occupations, at a cost of over $500 million over four years.
Australian Unions argue that support should go directly to apprentices and trainees to tackle low completion rates.
The Strategic Review of the Australian Apprenticeship Incentive System identified that low wages are driving Australians out of starting and completing apprenticeships and traineeships.
The Review resulted in the Albanese Government announcing a $10,000 wage bonus for apprentices to work in housing construction and clean energy. The direct cash payments to apprentices aim to encourage higher apprenticeship commencement and completion rates and build a long-term pipeline of skilled workers in critical industries like housing construction.
The Coalition’s record when last in government included spending cuts and neglect of Australia’s vocational education sector, resulting in a shortage of skilled workers that some industries are currently experiencing.
Commencements, apprentices in training and completions all fell under the Coalition’s last term compared to the previous period – with some figures falling as much as 26 per cent.
Quotes attributable to ACTU Assistant Secretary, Liam O’Brien:
“Australian Unions hear from young tradies across the country that low wages are driving them away from starting and completing an apprenticeship.
“If Australia wants more young people to complete apprenticeships, we need to pay them fair wages.
“The Coalition’s idea to give $12,000 to bosses is out of step with the real pressures facing apprentices and trainees in Australia.
“More apprenticeships are essential to building Australia’s future – but that only happens when you have a plan to lift wages.
“This is the same party that gutted vocational education and training and opposed free TAFE. They should not be taken seriously.”
