GOVERNMENT REDUCES APPRENTICE TRAINING TIMES

The State Government announced today that durations for up to 75 apprenticeships would be reduced in response to the skills shortage.

Education and Training Minister, Rod Welford, said the decision followed a review of apprentice programs by the Training and Employment Recognition Council.

“More than half of all apprenticeships will have shorter timeframes,” Mr Welford said.

“This will make apprenticeships more attractive and help address the skills shortage by turning out competent tradesmen and women in a shorter time.

“Some trades, including hairdressing, hospitality, food processing and some automotive areas, will be cut from four years to three years.

“A range of other trades will give apprentices the option of finishing their training in 42 months instead of 48 months.

“These will include bricklaying; carpentry; solid plastering; wall and floor tiling; and some off-site construction trades such as shop-fitting, joinery, stair construction and sign writing.

“However, these trades will also keep their longer standard durations in case the apprentice cannot finish earlier.

“At this point, there will be no change to some trades given the complexities around licensing requirements.

“These trades include plumbing, gas fitting, aeroskills, civil construction, electro-technology and automotive trades, including electrical, light vehicle, diesel fitting and heavy vehicle.”

Mr Welford said the Government would ensure that off-the-job training is aligned with the shorter apprenticeship durations.

“We will work with training providers and employers so that all training, both off-the-job and in the workplace, can be completed within the shortest reasonable timeframe,” he said.

For more information about the changes to apprenticeship durations call 1300 369 935 or visit www.deta.qld.gov.au/skillsplan

Media contact: Greg Milne or Marnie Stitz on 32371000