Queensland apprentice completions continue to climb

Queenslanders are successfully completing their apprenticeships or traineeships at a rate of four times the national average, Education and Training Minister Rod Welford said.

“More Queenslanders than ever are completing their apprenticeships or traineeships, according to the latest figures from the National Centre for Vocational Education Research,” Mr Welford said.

“For the 12 months to the end of March 2008, 31,700 apprentices and trainees completed their training.

“That’s an increase of eight per cent in Queensland compared to the national increase of two percent.

“Queensland leads all other states and territories in the increase in completions and also continues to make strong growth in the take-up of apprenticeships and traineeships.

“About 63,400 new apprentices and trainees commenced in the 12 months to 31 March 2008.

“That’s a 7.9 per cent increase on the previous year.

“The group which recorded the largest growth rate was the 45-years-and-over category, where the 6600 commencements represented a 10.1 per cent increase over the previous 12 months.”

Mr Welford said the increasing number of apprentices and trainees in training in Queensland would help reach the Bligh Government’s Toward Q2 target of having three out of four Queenslanders holding trade, training or tertiary qualifications.

“Overall there were 94,500 apprentices and trainees in training in Queensland at the end of March 2008 – a 7 per cent increase from March 2007,” he said.

“In this time of high demand from industry for skilled labour, ensuring apprentices and trainees complete their training is vital.”

Mr Welford said the Government was continuing to encourage apprentices and trainees to complete their training through its Train to Retain program and Early Completion Bonus scheme.

The Queensland Skills Plan 2008, released last month, refocuses on skilling existing workers and apprentices, engaging the unemployed and under-employed, improving youth transitions, developing the VET sector and building bridges to the professions.

Media contact: Marnie Stitz or Emma Clarey on 3237 1000