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$vuetify.icons.faPhone1300 650 620

Nothing brings satisfaction like a tradie career

Media release

Nothing brings satisfaction like a tradie career

Media release
“The knowledge that there will be good employment prospects at the completion of training, provides piece of mind for today’s up and coming tradies,” said HIA Executive Director Future Workforce, Mike Hermon.

“This is now becoming clearer with recent research from the National Centre for Vocational Education and Research (NCVER) showing 95 per cent of apprentices and trainees move into employment once they have obtained their certificate in their chosen field, with the construction sector featuring strongly in the research.

“Though this is not entirely surprising, as previous studies by HIA estimate the nation needs an additional 83,000 trades to meet our housing requirements.

“Apprentices and trainees need a clear line of sight as to what’s next once they have completed their qualification. A career in residential construction provides this.

“Along with strong employment outcomes, one of the many advantages for young people undertaking trades training is that they are not burdened by a HECS debt once they have completed their qualification. Earn while you learn is understandably a big enticement when choosing one’s career path as a tradie.

“With a pipeline of work for years ahead and opportunities to embrace new technologies such as modern method of construction and artificial intelligence, career flexibility and prospects have never been greater.

“But these opportunities don’t end there, with Australia’s population growing and more of us choosing to move to regional centres the sky is the limit as to where they choose to work, live and play.

“A tradie career is as a career of choice where paths can be mapped out years in advance with some continuing to specialise in their trade while others use this as a stepping stone to associate careers as a licensed builder, or in project management, site supervisors, estimating, the list goes on.”

Mr Hermon noted for apprentices currently undergoing training, entry for the HIA Apprentice Awards 2026 is now open, with the annual awards celebrating the achievements of our future tradespeople, encouraging continued excellence in the industry.

“Winners are given the chance to boost their careers with industry recognition, putting them on the path to a bright future in residential construction,” concluded Mr Hermon.

For more information please contact:

Mike Hermon

Executive Director - Future Workforce

Joe Shanahan

Manager, Communications & Media
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