The NSW Government has announced it will invest $285 million to offer 100,000 free apprenticeships over four years in the 2018 state budget.
Premier Gladys Berejiklian said the free apprenticeships will be on offer in any course at TAFE and non-TAFE providers approved to deliver apprenticeship programs to remove the financial pressures apprentices face.
“We have already created positions for apprentices by ensuring 20 per cent of trade roles on all future NSW Government projects will be filled by apprentices and now we are covering the cost of training,” Ms Berejiklian said.
“The decisions we are taking now help us to capitalise on our record infrastructure program by creating the electricians, plumbers and mechanics NSW needs.”
Deputy Premier and Minister for Skills John Barilaro said while NSW is home to around 60,000 apprentices, the State needs more to continue to deliver the roads, rail, schools and hospitals the NSW Government is investing in, and to meet the demand created by a booming economy.
“As an ex-tradie turned Skills Minister, it is extremely rewarding to be delivering this free training opportunity, particularly for our youngest workers,” Mr Barilaro said.
The 100,000 free apprenticeships will be on offer over the next four years and include all 121 courses currently funded under the Smart and Skilled program.
More information about the Smart and Skilled program can be found here.
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