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{{propApi.successMessage}} {{region}} Change locationTrade apprentices are starting and finishing but more still needed
Trade apprentices are starting and finishing but more still needed
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“The latest completion figures build on HIA's recent statements that construction was the only major field of education to record growth in qualification enrolments during 2025," HIA Executive Director Future Workforce Mike Hermon said today.
"These figures tell a positive story. More Australians are choosing a career in construction and, importantly, more of them are completing their qualifications," Mr Hermon said.
"Last week's NCVER enrolment data showed architecture and building was the only major field of education to record growth, with almost 14,000 additional enrolments despite overall VET qualification enrolments falling by more than five per cent.
"Yesterday’s figures show that momentum is continuing through the training system, with almost 59 per cent of trade apprentices now completing their apprenticeship, while completion rates for carpenters, joiners and electricians continue to improve.
"These results show the investments being made in apprenticeships are paying dividends, but they also highlight why governments cannot afford to become complacent.
"HIA estimates Australia still needs around 83,000 additional skilled tradespeople to build the homes needed over the coming years.
“The residential building industry was competing for skilled workers against some of the nation's biggest investment projects.
"Residential builders are no longer just competing with each other. They're competing with major transport infrastructure, renewable energy projects, AUKUS, mining developments, transmission upgrades and the rapid expansion of data centres.
"Every one of those projects is chasing the same electricians, carpenters, plumbers and other skilled trades our industry depends on."
Mr Hermon said governments now needed to build on the positive trends by supporting both apprentices and the small businesses that employ and train them.
"The latest figures show more young Australians are coming through the front door and more are making it to the finish line.
"The next step is making sure that momentum continues by extending employer apprentice incentives, investing in high-quality training, supporting apprentice retention and ensuring targeted skilled migration complements Australia's domestic workforce.
"If Australia is serious about meeting its housing targets, we need to keep growing the skilled workforce that builds our homes. Today's figures are encouraging, but they are only one step towards meeting the challenge,” concluded Mr Hermon.
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