Cash incentives for construction apprentices, trainees to boost workforce
To help tackle construction skills shortages, apprentices and trainees may be eligible for thousands of dollars from the WA Government for completing their studies.
The $4.2 million Apprenticeship Completion Grant includes a $2,000 one-off grant and up to a $500 allowance to purchase work-related tools and/or safety equipment.
The program aims to contribute to building a sustainable construction workforce by incentivising apprentices and trainees to remain in training. This is important as only about 50% of construction apprentices or trainees become qualified.
CCIWA’s Business Confidence Survey from March 2023 shows 70% of construction businesses are struggling to fill a position, although this is an improvement from the December quarter by 11 percentage points.
“With the increased cost of living being one of the biggest barriers to completion, and on-going skill shortages in WA, this initiative is supporting both apprentices and employers,” said CCIWA’s Apprenticeship Support Australia Manager Carly Waterfield.
“Financial support for the apprentices encourages continuation in their trade of choice, which in turn provides a sustainable skilled workforce into the future.”
The one-year program will support more than 1,900 apprentices and trainees due to complete their qualifications in the 2023-24 financial year. It will commence on 1 July 2023.
To claim the Apprentice Completion Grant, apprentices and trainees need to confirm their bank details with the Construction Training Fund (CTF). Whereas to claim the Work-related tool and/or safety equipment reimbursement, applicants are required to submit a claim via the CTF portal.
There is no involvement required from employers – although employers are encouraged to pass information about the program onto their apprentices and trainees.
Minister for Training the Hon Simone McGurk MLA said: "There has never been a better time to get into construction and, along with other initiatives like fee-free and low-cost training, this initiative gives apprentices a financial incentive to finish what they started.
"We know that tradies who complete their training are more likely to be employed - and these grants are expected to support almost 2,000 apprentices to get jobs in construction. Not only does this program recognise tradies who have chosen to begin and complete training in the building and construction industry, it also ensures they have the skills to set them up for a long and rewarding career."
Powered by CCIWA, Apprenticeship Support Australia (ASA), can facilitate employment, manage training and offer support and advice to companies seeking apprentices to boost their workforce.
Contact ASA at [email protected] or phone 1300 363 831.
