Skills Policy

Unless reforms are enacted to make training more attractive and accessible, the industry will face a growing shortage of skilled workers.  Skills formation and related issues are a major priority in HIA’s policy and advocacy agenda.

HIA advocates reform that centres on workplace changes in TAFE and changes to State awards to make training more flexible.  The structure of the training system is being reshaped and HIA is positive that change will enhance skills formation in the industry. 

HIA believes that the key training issues for the housing industry are:

• Encouraging flexibility and choice in training courses;
• Attracting suitable young people to trades training;
• Reversing high drop-out rates from training;
• Addressing the cost barriers to small business employers of taking on apprentices; and
• Reform of industrial relations restrictions which prevent more relevant and timely training.

HIA proposes to address skills related issues through policy lobbying and grass-roots’ initiatives with industry, schools and government.