Trainee scheme under review
A $1.3bn scheme to get more Aussies into apprenticeships will be investigated, amid concerns it is failing to grow the pipeline of workers needed to address critical skills shortages.
Former Federal Court judge Justice Iain Ross and former senior public servant Lisa Paul will lead the review into the Apprenticeships Incentive System.
The probe will consider if it is improving the take-up and completion of apprenticeships and traineeships, as well as the effect of cost-of-living pressures.
It will also look at whether the system is creating a training environment that encourages women, people with disability, as well as Indigenous Australians and people in regional, rural and remote communities into apprenticeships and traineeships.
Skills and Training Minister Brendan O’Connor said getting the best outcomes for apprentices and trainees was vital to ensuring we had the skills our economy needs.
“We know that almost half of all apprentices don’t complete their training,” Mr O’Connor said. “Addressing the completion rate is not just vitally important for individuals and employers, but also for the Australian economy.”
The Morrison government introduced the Apprenticeships Incentive System in 2022, worth $1.3bn over five years.
The initiative had two phases, including a wage subsidy for employers of apprentices in priority occupations until June 2024, when a $4000 hiring incentive for employers would takeover.
Mr O’Connor said the review would assist the government to implement a more effective, sustainable and longterm incentive system for apprentices and trainees.
He said the combined experience and knowledge of Justice Ross and Ms Paul would ensure a holistic and comprehensive review.
Written submissions to the review will be accepted until May 15.