{{propApi.title}}
{{propApi.text}} {{region}} Change location{{propApi.title}}
{{propApi.successMessage}} {{region}} Change location {{propApi.title}}
{{propApi.text}} {{region}} Change location{{propApi.title}}
{{propApi.successMessage}} {{region}} Change locationApprentices and employers funding key to addressing labour shortages
Apprentices and employers funding key to addressing labour shortages
Member and guest login
Enter your email and password to access secured content, members only resources and discount prices.
Did you become a member online? If not, you will need to activate your account to login.
If you are having problems logging in, please call HIA helpdesk on 1300 650 620 during business hours.
Forgotten password
Need some help?
If you are having problems logging in, please call HIA helpdesk on 1300 650 620 during business hours.
If the email address you have entered is registered, you will receive an email with further instructions.
Become part of the HIA community
Enables quick and easy registration for future events or learning and grants access to expert advice and valuable resources.
Create a guest account
Enter your details below and create a login
Send me exclusive tips, early access to new launches, and special offers. I can change my mind at any time.
By clicking Get started now you agree to the terms and conditions and privacy policy.
“Labour, along with supply chain problems, 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 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.
“These incentives work. Without employers willing to train and support an apprentice it will be difficult to offer people a start in the industry.
“Often the role of an employer taking on an apprentice is missed. It is important that the financial commitment, time and resources put into the training and development of an apprentice over the course of their apprenticeship as well as their mentoring role is recognised.
“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.
“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.
“Labour and skills are a whole of government issue and HIA stands ready to work with government to suggest more ways to increase supply of labour to our industry, it's only after this issue is addressed properly will there be an increase in the supply of housing and an easing the affordability problem,” concluded Ms Martin.
For more information please contact:
Construction skills growth vital amid rising competition for labour
The Housing Industry Association (HIA) today welcomed the Albanese Government's continued focus on skills, training and apprenticeships following a media event in Canberra today with Federal Skills and Training Minister Andrew Giles, local builders and apprentices.
NSW Apprentice Awards Winners Announced
Meet the winners of the 2026 HIA NSW Apprentice Awards, recognising outstanding apprentices, industry excellence, and the future of residential construction.
The government wants you to be licensed to employ an apprentice
The Victorian government has introduced into Parliament this week a Bill that would introduce a licensing scheme for any person who wants to enter into a training contract with an apprentice.
Policies threat to improving new housing market
“The number of loans issued for the construction or purchase of new housing increased in the June quarter 2026, for both owner occupiers and investors,” stated HIA Senior Economist, Tom Devitt.