Queenslanders encourages to “Explore All Options” this Skills Week

• National Skills Week 2025 (25-31 August) highlights training pathways that lead to real jobs and stronger communities.
• One million Queenslanders take part in vocational education and training each year, with more than 246,000 enrolled in subsidised courses.
• The Crisafulli Government is delivering a Fresh Start for skills by backing apprentices, trainees, and small businesses.

The Crisafulli Government is delivering for Queenslanders this National Skills Week, showcasing training pathways that lead to real jobs, stronger communities, and a brighter future with the better lifestyle Queenslanders deserve.

Running from 25-31 August, National Skills Week 2025 will shine a spotlight on the skills that build our homes, staff our hospitals, power our industries and grow our small businesses on the road to 2032.

Each year, more than one million Queenslanders take part in vocational education and training.

More than 246,000 are currently enrolled in government-subsidised courses, choosing apprenticeships, traineeships, micro-credentials, and short courses giving them real skills for real jobs.

After years of neglect and deepening skills shortages under the former Labor Government, the Crisafulli Government is delivering a Fresh Start for skills, ensuring Queenslanders have the tools they need to succeed in a modern economy.

Now in its 15^th year, National Skills Week is backed by the Crisafulli Government, the Commonwealth and other states and territories with events across Queensland encouraging people to “explore all options”.

Minister for Finance, Trade, Employment and Training, Ros Bates, said the Crisafulli Government was supporting Queenslanders with the skills needed for secure jobs and growing industries.

“National Skills Week is about celebrating our success and showing people the options available to build their future,” Minister Bates said.

“Whether you’re a student, a parent, someone retraining, or a business looking for skilled workers, there is a pathway for you.

National Skills Week Chair Brian Wexham said he hoped Queenslanders would be inspired to delve into the diversity of training offerings across the state. 

“Whether you are a high school student or a parent looking to provide guidance to your child, we invite you to use National Skills Week to explore ALL the options available through Vocational Education and Training (VET)," Mr Wexham said.

“Vocational education offers so many options, including some of the less talked about careers in business, technology, engineering, media and the arts."

One Queenslander who found his purpose through vocational training is Brisbane City Council arborist Harry Roberts, who was awarded the Harry Hauenschild Apprentice of the Year at last year’s Queensland Training Awards.

“At a time in my life where I wasn't sure what would be my next step, it gave me guidance and a renewed passion,” Mr Roberts said.

“All of a sudden, I was excited to go to work and learn new skills - growing in confidence and taking on bigger challenges became my drive and I never looked back. 

“The options are endless, and you just need to find something you are passionate about and find a way to make it part of your career.”

For more information on National Skills Week 2025 and to explore training options in Queensland, please visit https://www.dtet.qld.gov.au/skills-week .

ENDS

MEDIA CONTACT: Brendan Morris, 0428 962 414