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$vuetify.icons.faPhone1300 650 620

Continued investment in skills welcomed by HIA

Media release

Continued investment in skills welcomed by HIA

Media release
The Housing Industry Association (HIA) welcomed today's announcement by the Cook Government in Western Australia that they will continue investing in skilled trades in the State Budget to be announced on Thursday.

“Apprentices are our future, and we have seen a significant increase in people taking up an apprenticeship post Covid," said HIA WA Executive Director Michael McGowan.

“We need at least 9,000 new apprentices every year for the next 10 years to keep up with demand, so subsidising this cost for employers helps make this goal achievable. It also helps reduce any further cost on new homes when affordability is such a challenge.

“While we are training our workers of the future, it's critically important to continue to invest in skilled worker pathways that have shown to produce positive results.

“People all around the world can see the opportunities that exist in Western Australia and want to come here to help.

“The Build a LIFE campaign and the Construction Visa Migration Program are helping employers make this happen. Bringing in 1,000 extra employees every year helps us build at least another 1,500 homes for Western Australian families.

“These programs have momentum, and more employers are seeing the benefits to their businesses.

"HIA has been calling for an extension of these programs and is pleased that Government is listening to industry," said Mr McGowan.

For more information please contact:

Michael McGowan

Executive Director - Western Australia
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