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{{propApi.successMessage}} {{region}} Change locationApprentice subsidies just one part of the housing solution
Apprentice subsidies just one part of the housing solution
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Speaking to more than 300 industry stakeholders, the Premier outlined the WA Government’s focus on land, labour, and planning reform as key priorities heading into the 2026–27 State Budget.
The Premier announced $19.6 million to extend the GTO Wage Subsidy Program funding that will support an additional 330 apprentices and assist in maintaining their employment throughout their training.
HIA WA Executive Director Michael McGowan said the announcement provides confidence during a period of economic uncertainty.
“Through increasingly uncertain times, funding certainty for apprentice programs is welcomed and desperately needed.
“An apprenticeship is a significant commitment for both the apprentice and the host employer. Having funding certainty across all four years is essential,” said Mr McGowan.
The Premier reinforced that land availability, labour supply, and planning reform remain central to the Government’s agenda to support improved housing supply outcomes.
Mr McGowan said these priorities align with the challenges facing the residential building industry.
“Land and labour remain the biggest barriers to housing supply, and these challenges continue to impact housing affordability.
"Over the past five years, 40,000 Western Australians have commenced an apprenticeship or traineeship—an encouraging trend that must continue," said Mr McGowan.
“These numbers show that more people are considering an apprenticeship and it is no longer viewed as a distant second to university.
“We are seeing a growing number of people from all backgrounds wanting to start an apprenticeship, driven by the incredible pipeline of work expected in Western Australia over the next decade."
However, Mr McGowan warned that strong apprenticeship demand must be matched by employer capacity.
A recent HIA Business Conditions Survey found 64% of WA respondents have considered scaling back their business due to red tape, while 46% do not intend to hire additional staff this year, despite significant demand for housing.
“Employing an apprentice is a big commitment for a small building business.
“Providing financial support is the State Government’s acknowledgement of this commitment and the critical role that builders and small businesses play in increasing housing supply and improving affordability.
"While apprentice subsidies are essential, they must form part of a broader set of reforms to ensure Western Australia can meet its future housing needs," concluded Mr McGowan.
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