New state grants for council-employed apprentices

LOCAL governments across NSW have until November 8 to apply for state grants aimed at hiring more apprentices and trainees, with funding available to support 1,300 new positions statewide.

The Fresh Start for Local Government Apprentices, Trainees and Cadets Program is part of the NSW Government’s $252.2 million investment to secure the future of local government workforces.

The program will fund the wages of apprentices, trainees, and cadets over the next six years and represents the most significant state government investment in hiring new apprentices.

State Member for Lismore Janelle Saffin has backed the scheme as a practical way of creating local jobs and developing careers.

Saffin advises local councils in her electorate, Rous County Council and the Northern Rivers Joint Organisation, to engage with the major investment opportunities in the local government sector.

“Our councils know where they need to fill gaps in their respective workforces,” Saffin said.

“I encourage them to maximise the benefits of this groundbreaking program where they can.”

Councils can determine their workforce priorities and the types of roles they require from the spectrum of professions, including plumbers, childcare workers, carpenters, mechanics, landscapers and planners.

Grants will be allocated following the assessment period, and the first round of successful job applicants are expected to start work in early 2025.