Never a better time to hire apprentices

The Marshall Government says the Federal Government’s $1.2 billion ‘Boosting Apprenticeship Commencements’ program, extending the 50 per cent wage subsidy for businesses who take on a new apprentice, means there’s never been a better time to hire a trainee.

“In particular I urge the social care sector,

including aged care, to embrace the opportunity to train and strengthen their workforce through paid traineeships,” said Minister for Innovation and Skills David Pisoni.

“Last week’s Royal Commission into Aged Care highlighted the pressing need for the aged care system to attract and train significant numbers of employees in aged care.

“The Marshall Government introduced paid training pathways into the aged and disability care sectors in 2018.

“The Federal Government’s 50 per cent wage subsidy and the State Government’s assistance provides employers with a fantastic opportunity to build their workforce and provide on-job training which supports flexibility and a positive workplace culture of excellence.

“Small business and other growth sectors are also encouraged to transition to this model of employing new staff with the incentives meaning it has never been easier or more financially viable to take on an apprentice or trainee.

“The Boosting Apprenticeship Wage subsidy provides support up to $7,000 each quarter for one year in addition to state-based incentives to stimulate the economic recovery post-COVID.

“Since coming to office the Marshall Government has turned an ailing training system around, achieving more than 33,000 commencements in apprenticeships and traineeships to date.

“With the South Australian economy rebounding from the impact of COVID-19 and the vaccination program underway there are significant opportunities for businesses to expand their workforce.

“Ensuring South Australia has the skilled workforce necessary to drive the transformation of our economy is a fundamental component of the Marshall Government economic policies.

“The State Government has appointed Renee Hindmarsh as South Australia’s new Skills Commission to lead workforce development, promote apprenticeships, traineeships and micro-credentials and promote pathways between secondary school, vocational education and training and lifelong learning.”