Construction education leaders have warned the industry is still missing half the blueprint to fix the tradie shortage, despite the government’s $10,000 apprentice incentive scheme.
The plan, designed to hammer two nails with one swing, aims to boost Australia’s tradie numbers by attracting and retaining apprentices while also helping to tackle the nation’s ongoing housing crisis.
Starting from 1 July 2025, eligible apprentices will receive five payments of $2,000 at six-month intervals throughout their apprenticeship, totalling $10,000 in a bid to improve completion rates and get more tradies on the tools.
The construction industry has widely praised the scheme for helping address workforce shortages, but the Independent Tertiary Education Council Australia (ITECA) has slammed the initiative for excluding key trade industries.
With $627 million invested to boost apprentice recruitment and retention, ITECA says limiting financial support to just the construction and energy sectors won’t tackle the broader skills crisis impacting Australia’s trades and essential services.
Key areas left behind
Trade businesses that work hand-in-hand with the construction industry are still battling a skills shortage, with automotive, health and safety, and resource sectors crying out for new apprentices.
While the funding aims to help fill Australia’s ongoing tradie shortage, ITECA Chief Executive Troy Williams says other struggling sectors have been left in the dust.
“To address the systemic workforce challenges, broader measures are needed,” he said.
“This includes supporting small businesses that employ apprentices and fostering collaboration with independent training providers.”
“Such steps would help create a workforce equipped to meet the demands of the future economy, ensuring opportunities for aspiring apprentices in all fields, not just those tied to construction and energy.”
Retainment the biggest job on hand
Mr Williams says that while apprentice numbers need to increase, the bigger challenge is keeping them in training and ensuring they finish.
“Developing a robust and responsive apprenticeship system requires an inclusive approach that supports all industries and career pathways,” he said.
“Ensuring apprentices start and complete their training is critical, but it is only part of the solution.”
