Queensland apprentices continue record growth

Queensland continues to lead the way in overcoming skills shortages with apprenticeship and traineeship commencements increasing at more than double the national rate.

Education and Training Minister Rod Welford said new figures showed Queensland apprenticeship and traineeship commencements had increased by 10 per cent in the 12 months ending 31 December 2007.

“The growth is more than double the national figure of 3.7 per cent over the same period,” Mr Welford said.

Around 63,200 Queenslanders started an apprenticeship or traineeship in the 12 months ending 31 December 2007.

“Queensland is clearly leading the nation in the growth rate of those taking up apprenticeships and traineeships, and it’s particularly pleasing to see growth in traditional trades areas where skills are most in demand,” Mr Welford said.

“Commencements in traditional apprenticeships for the 12 months increased by 36.6 per cent compared to a national increase of 13.8 per cent.

“Traditional apprenticeships now account for 45.1 per cent of all training in Queensland, above the national average of 41.3 per cent, and this figure is anticipated to continue to grow under our Government’s $1 billion Queensland Skills Plan initiative.

“Traditional trades are a key focus of the Skills Plan and it’s rewarding to see such strong numbers.”

The new figures released by the National Centre for Vocational Education Research also showed Queensland had 88,500 apprentices and trainees in training as at 31 December 2007.

Mr Welford congratulated employers for taking on apprentices and trainees to help address the skills shortage.

“I encourage other employers to see the example being set by others and also to take on an apprentice or trainee so that we can continue to grow our skilled workforce,” he said. “Now is the time that employers should be taking on apprentices or trainees to pass on their skills to the next generation of employers. Everyone must do their part to tackle the skills shortage.

“Our Government is investing $17.1 million to create 4250 additional trade training places in 2008-09 to help meet the demand for skilled tradespeople, with a target of 17,000 extra places available by 2010.

“We will also provide $186.5 million to develop the skills of apprentices and trainees and maximise their contribution to the Queensland economy.”

Media contact: Marnie Stitz or Emma Clarey on 3237 1000