The Nationals will back East Gippsland’s next generation of tradies by providing free vehicle registration for eligible apprentices, halving training costs for businesses employing apprentices and establishing 10 new technical colleges across Victoria, says candidate for Gippsland East, Gemma Rendell.
“This is about making it easier for young people to enter a trade, reducing costs for local businesses and addressing critical skills shortages.
“Apprentices are our future builders, plumbers, electricians and other skilled tradespeople, and we need to make sure they have every opportunity to complete their training and build a career locally,” Ms Rendell said.
“Under The Nationals in government, eligible trade apprentices will continue to receive free vehicle registration, saving regional apprentices $818.60 annually, or more than $3,000 over a four-year apprenticeship.
“For apprentices who often need to travel considerable distances to work and training, particularly in regional areas like East Gippsland, this is a significant saving at a time when cost-of-living pressures are hitting hard.
“We also recognise the important role local businesses play in taking on apprentices and training the next generation of skilled workers.
“That is why we will establish an Apprentice Training Fund to cover up to half of the off-the-job training fees businesses pay to registered training organisations as part of an apprenticeship.
“This will reduce the financial burden on local employers and encourage more businesses to take on apprentices, providing greater opportunities for young people to learn a trade.”
Ms Rendell said the commitments would be complemented by a $222 million investment over eight years to establish 10 new technical colleges across Victoria, providing vocational education and training opportunities for 5,000 secondary school students.
“We know there are skills shortages across a range of industries, particularly in regional Victoria, and we need to provide clear pathways from school into meaningful employment.
“Whether it is helping an apprentice with the cost of getting to work, supporting a small business to train a new employee or giving secondary students a head start in a trade, these commitments are about investing in our future workforce.
“East Gippsland needs more skilled tradespeople to build homes, support local businesses and deliver the infrastructure our growing communities need.
“The Nationals are committed to supporting our apprentices, backing the businesses that employ them and ensuring more young people can build rewarding careers close to home,” Ms Rendell said.
Pictured: Gemma Rendell pictured with local tradie, Nathan Terrill.
