YEAR 12 graduates are encouraged to consider apprenticeships and traineeships as a practical and rewarding alternative to university studies.

More than 95 per cent of trade apprentices secure full-time employment after completing their training and apprentice and trainee-qualified workers surpass their tertiary-educated counterparts at age 25, earning an average weekly income of $1421.

Apprenticeship Support Australia general manager, Peter Gilchrist, says apprenticeships and traineeships provide hands-on experience, nationally recognised qualifications, and the practical skills employers are actively seeking.

“From business services and childcare to construction trades like plumbing and carpentry, there are hundreds of opportunities across diverse industries,” Mr Gilchrist said

“Unlike many university graduates who struggle to find work, apprentices and trainees frequently transition into secure roles with their employers after completing training.

“Missing out on a university offer doesn’t mean missing out on a successful career. With so many training programs available, there’s a pathway to a fulfilling future for everyone.”

Data released in December by the National Centre for Vocational Education Research show a 14.3 per cent increase in apprentice and trainee commencements in the June 2024 quarter, when compared with the June 2023 quarter.

The Apprentices and trainees 2024 June quarter report shows commencements increased across most occupations.

Trade commencements increased by 18.1 per cent to 20,485. Growth was particularly strong in engineering, ICT and science technicians (127.6 per cent), food trades workers (68.4 per cent) and automotive and engineering trades workers (12.4 per cent).

Non-trade commencements increased by 10.9 per cent over the period to 22,135.

Most of the growth was among labourers (40.3 per cent), clerical and administrative workers (26.1 per cent) and machinery operators and drivers (12.9 per cent).

NCVER managing director, John King, said the data shows apprenticeship commencements are up for most occupations.

“The total number of apprentices training in trade occupations remains near recent highs of the June quarter 2022, while non-trade training has continued to decline since then,” Mr King said.

He emphasised increasing the number of commencements and in-training apprentices are only part of the equation.

“Ensuring more apprentices train and complete their training in priority areas is vital to building a skilled workforce,” Mr King said.

Media Release