The Labor Government supports housing apprentices with a new $10K scheme, bolstering the country’s housing plans.
The Albanese Labor Government is taking decisive action to address Australia’s housing shortage by supporting apprentices in the construction sector. As part of its ambitious plan to deliver 1.2 million homes over the next five years, the government has introduced a new $10,000 incentive to help apprentices complete their training in the residential housing sector.
Starting on July 1, 2025, eligible apprentices will receive the $10,000 payment over the course of their training. This amount, double the current support, is designed to ease the financial pressures apprentices face and encourage more people to join the critical workforce needed to meet Australia’s growing housing demands.
“We know that building Australia’s future is about more than just constructing buildings; it’s about creating better lives for Australians through education and employment,” said Prime Minister Anthony Albanese. “This incentive will not only assist apprentices with the cost of living but also ensure we have the skilled workforce needed to deliver our Homes for Australia plan.”
Under the new Key Apprenticeship Program, apprentices will receive payments of $2,000 at six, twelve, twenty-four, and thirty-six months, with the final payment made upon completion of their apprenticeship. This initiative follows the release of the Strategic Review of the Australian Apprenticeship Incentive System, which highlighted the challenges of rising living costs that deter many from pursuing apprenticeships.
Minister for Housing and Homelessness, Clare O’Neil, emphasised the importance of skilled workers in the housing sector, stating, “The more tradies we have, the more homes we can build. This program is part of the Albanese Government’s broader efforts to support apprentices and address the housing crisis.”
The government’s plan builds on other initiatives such as Free TAFE and reduced HECS fees for university students, which aim to make training and education more accessible. Minister for Skills and Training, Andrew Giles, added, “Apprentices are the backbone of many Australian industries. By supporting them now, we are securing a workforce that will help us achieve our Future Made in Australia goals and net-zero infrastructure.”
In addition to the $10,000 incentive, the government has outlined other support measures, including an increase in the Living Away From Home Allowance and higher payments for employers of apprentices with disabilities. These changes, set to take effect in 2025, aim to reduce the financial burden on apprentices and ensure the continuity of training in priority sectors.
With these new measures, the Albanese Government is reinforcing its commitment to building a skilled workforce that will play a crucial role in delivering the homes and infrastructure needed for Australia’s future.
Also read: $250,000 grant round opens for affordable housing projects in Victoria
Milton writes as both an occupation and a hazard. He also works on the newsletters you see on Tuesday and Thursday with articles you should find interesting.
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