More young Queenslanders apply for apprenticeships

More than 3,000 young Queenslanders have applied to take up building apprenticeships with the State’s construction and maintenance organisation, QBuild.

Minister for Public Works Robert Schwarten said today he was delighted to see last year’s figure up by another 200 applications.

“Queensland is overseeing the largest infrastructure program in the country, and industry is crying out for more skilled labour,” Mr Schwarten said.

“It’s gratifying to see so many young people, along with more mature candidates, wanting to make a go of it in the building and construction industry.

“QBuild is the single largest employer of building and construction industry apprentices in the state, and most QBuild apprentices find work in the private sector at the end of their tenure.”

Mr Schwarten said QBuild apprenticeships offer a wide range of trades including carpentry, plumbing, fitting and turning, electrical mechanics, painting, refrigeration mechanics, shop fitting, glazing and cabinet making.

“Six in 10 of these positions will be created in regional Queensland providing for future development and growth of our regions.”

Mr Schwarten said QBuild continue to work closely with schools across the State, promoting the importance of trade skills to industry.

“School-based apprentices spend three days at school, one day at TAFE and one day each week working with QBuild. Most of their school holidays are also spent in paid work with QBuild.

“Once students have finished year 12, they can commence fulltime work with QBuild.

“In the 10 years I have been Minister, 1,239 new apprentice and trainee positions have been created, highlighting the high importance the Queensland government places on trade training for industry.”

The successful applicants will be advised in early February 2009.