RECORD NUMBERS APPLY FOR QBUILD APPRENTICESHIPS

Record numbers of school leavers and older Queenslanders have applied for apprenticeships with the Queensland Government’s construction and maintenance organisation, QBuild.

Premier Peter Beattie said more than 2500 people had applied this year, an increase of 61 per cent on last year’s results.

“The new online application site set up by QBuild has proved a popular and convenient way to apply for apprenticeships,” Mr Beattie said.

“The site received more than 2000 electronic applications,” he said.

Mr Beattie said with the building and construction industry booming in Queensland, it was great to see so many people setting their sights on a trade apprenticeship with QBuild.

“The trades of carpentry, shop fitting, plumbing, fitting and turning, electrical mechanics, painting, glazing and stonemasonry were all offered.”

“Since the Government has been in office, 951 new apprentice and trainee positions have been created, clearly demonstrating our strong commitment to trade training in the industry,” Mr Beattie said.

“In November QBuild offered a total of 101 training positions, from full-time apprenticeships and school-based apprenticeships to construction and horticultural traineeships for commencement in 2007.

“About 550 applicants will be offered interviews, and successful applicants will be advised by letter,” Mr Beattie said.

All new apprentices and trainees are due to start in Brisbane and regional areas on Tuesday, 13 February 2007.

Mr Beattie said the continued increase in applications received showed the community’s high regard for QBuild as both an employer and training organisation.

“QBuild, a business unit of the Department of Public Works, is one of the largest employers of construction and engineering industry apprentices in the state. Most QBuild apprentices find work in the private sector at the end of their training agreement.

“QBuild offers a range of trade apprenticeships including carpentry, plumbing, fitting and turning, electrical, refrigeration and air conditioning, glazing and stonemasonry,” he said.

Mr Beattie said this year’s intake would include 10 school-based apprentices selected from 138 applications.

“Generally school-based apprentices spend three days a week at school, one day at TAFE and one day working with QBuild.

“Most of their school holidays are also spent in paid work with QBuild.

“These are just some of the ways in which the Queensland Government maintains its strong commitment to trade training,” he said.

Media contact: Premier’s office 32244500

David Shankey 0407 582 041

26 December 2006