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{{propApi.successMessage}} {{region}} Change locationCut to apprentice incentives is a cut to housing
Cut to apprentice incentives is a cut to housing
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“At a time when builders are facing so much adversity, it is imperative that the Australian Government maintain incentives for tradespeople employing and retaining apprentices,” HIA Managing Director, Jocelyn Martin said today.
Monday, 08th April 2024
“There is obviously a lot of stress currently being felt in the industry, builders will have to make financial decisions for their business, some of which will impact the supply of new apprentices being trained for the workforce.
“We acknowledge the Australian Government has committed to a strategic review of the Australian Apprenticeship Incentive System which will take into consideration funding arrangements. However, with submissions to the Review not due until May, presumably followed by a period of consultation, employers will be left in limbo with the current funding arrangements to cease on 30 June 2024.
“Cutting back crucial funding to employers that encourage them to take on apprentices will not only cause a reduction in opportunities for aspiring tradespeople, it will also mean Australia’s dwindling construction labour force will get smaller.
“Labour is one of the top issues currently facing the building industry in Australia, and no stone should be left unturned to increase workforce capacity and improve skills shortages if we are to reach the goal of building 1.2 million homes.
“Financial incentives which encourage the employment of an apprentice and improve retention have proved invaluable to helping the construction industry to access more workers.
"In addition, apprentice incentive funding opens up opportunities for those who seek a diverse and rewarding career in construction.
“At a time when it is critical to avoid anything which will impact the ability to supply homes, HIA is encouraging the Australian Government to maintain the current national funding arrangements for apprentices and employers by a further 12 months while the Review is conducted,” concluded Ms Martin
“We acknowledge the Australian Government has committed to a strategic review of the Australian Apprenticeship Incentive System which will take into consideration funding arrangements. However, with submissions to the Review not due until May, presumably followed by a period of consultation, employers will be left in limbo with the current funding arrangements to cease on 30 June 2024.
“Cutting back crucial funding to employers that encourage them to take on apprentices will not only cause a reduction in opportunities for aspiring tradespeople, it will also mean Australia’s dwindling construction labour force will get smaller.
“Labour is one of the top issues currently facing the building industry in Australia, and no stone should be left unturned to increase workforce capacity and improve skills shortages if we are to reach the goal of building 1.2 million homes.
“Financial incentives which encourage the employment of an apprentice and improve retention have proved invaluable to helping the construction industry to access more workers.
"In addition, apprentice incentive funding opens up opportunities for those who seek a diverse and rewarding career in construction.
“At a time when it is critical to avoid anything which will impact the ability to supply homes, HIA is encouraging the Australian Government to maintain the current national funding arrangements for apprentices and employers by a further 12 months while the Review is conducted,” concluded Ms Martin
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