Minister lauds 'crucial' funding as new support for tradies begins

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Federal Skills and Training Minister Brendan O'Connor has lauded the introduction of new support for tradies after a series of new programs took effect.

From today, both apprentices in priority areas and their employers are eligible for $5000 in financial incentives – up from $3000 and $4000 respectively that was previously provided.

The Apprentice Connect Australia program also commenced today.

It aims to find areas where apprentices and employers may need extra support at the start of apprenticeships, as well as providing mentoring to those training in "in need" areas, including women in male-dominated industries, Indigenous apprentices, as well as those in remote areas, with a disability, and who are at risk of not finishing their program.

"A successful apprenticeship system means a successful and prosperous economy, as custodians of the apprenticeship system Apprentice Connect Australia providers have a great responsibility to ensure this success is realised," O'Connor said.

"Providing targeted support to apprentices is crucial to filling skills gaps and ensuring Australia has a skilled workforce ready for the future.

"Apprentice Connect Australia and the strengthened support measures will increase diversity within the apprentice workforce and provide more opportunities for women in male-dominated fields.

"Personalised mentoring support, especially in the first two years, can significantly improve completion rates."

Today also marks the start of a series of targets under the Australian Skills Guarantee, which aims to bolster the nation's skilled workforce and boost the number of women undertaking apprenticeships.

Under the program, at least 10 per cent of all labour hours worked on Commonwealth-funded construction and IT projects worth $10 million will need to be done by apprentices.

Those projects will also need to have women doing at least 6 per cent of all trainee or apprenticeship hours, and 4 per cent of all trade trainee or apprenticeship hours.

Those targets will increase every year until 2030.

"By also introducing targets for women apprentices on major eligible Commonwealth-funded construction and ICT projects, we're helping create a more diverse and inclusive workforce that will deliver benefits for women apprentices, their employers and the national economy," O'Connor said.

The measures are part of $600 million in workforce growth and development funding included in May's federal budget, including $90 million for 20,000 new fee-free TAFE and VET places and pre-apprenticeships.