New data reveals rise in trade apprenticeships

THE number of trade apprenticeship commencements has risen by more than 70 per cent since 2019, according to figures from the National Centre for Vocational Education Research.

Commencements have increased by 71.7 per cent compared to 2019 levels. Overall, commencements rose nearly 30 per cent compared to the June 2019 quarter, with a 14.3 per cent rise compared to the June 2023 quarter.

Trade occupation commencements were up by 18.1 per cent over the same period.

Completions have also grown, with a 15.4 per cent increase overall and a 32 per cent rise for construction workers, reflecting demand in the housing and infrastructure sectors.

Skills and training minister, Andrew Giles, said the data showed government investment in programs such as Free TAFE and additional training places was delivering results.

“We’ve seen growth in some key areas like women in male-dominated trades, First Nations commencements, as well as construction,” Giles said.

Australians can access more than 80 Free TAFE qualifications and short courses without tuition fees, even if they already hold a vocational education and training (VET) qualification or a university degree.

The federal government has allocated funding for 20,000 additional Free TAFE and VET places in construction and housing to address workforce needs.

Since the introduction of the Free TAFE program,

more than 508,000 Australians have enrolled in courses

aimed at addressing skills shortages.