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{{propApi.successMessage}} {{region}} Change locationHousing targets depend on more than university graduates
Housing targets depend on more than university graduates
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“There was no question universities played a vital role in producing the architects, engineers, surveyors, planners and construction managers who help deliver Australia's homes, said Mr Hermon.
"But we also need the skilled tradespeople who physically build them.
"Australia is trying to build 1.2 million new homes, yet our industry still needs another 83,000 skilled tradespeople to meet demand. We won't achieve our housing ambitions unless we encourage more young Australians to see a trade as a first-choice career.
"The latest National Centre for Vocational Education and Research figures show 95 per cent of construction apprentices and trainees move into employment once they complete their training. That's an exceptional outcome and highlights the strength of demand across our industry.
"A trade is no longer just a pathway to working on the tools. It can lead to running your own business, becoming a licensed builder, site supervisor, estimator, project manager or moving into specialist areas that increasingly rely on digital technology, modern methods of construction and artificial intelligence.
“The debate should not be about university versus vocational education, but ensuring Australia's education system reflects the workforce the country needs.
"What we need is a pipeline of architects to design our homes, engineers to certify them and builders and tradies to bring them to life. Australia's housing challenge won't be solved unless all parts of that workforce are growing together."
Mr Hermon said governments should continue supporting apprenticeship commencements and completions while ensuring young Australians receive balanced careers advice about the opportunities available in residential construction.
"If we're serious about improving housing affordability, we have to be equally serious about building the workforce that will deliver those homes. Every apprentice we fail to attract today is one less qualified tradie building Australia's homes tomorrow," concluded Mr Hermon.
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