The Federal Budget for 2023-24 was announced on Tuesday night. Key measures in relation to skills was the announcement of an additional 300,000 fee free positions at TAFE from 1 January 2024.
The Government will also provide $5.5 million in 2023-24 to continue supporting negotiations on a long-term skills funding agreement with the states and territories. Subject to the outcome of these negotiations, the Government has retained $3.7 billion in the Contingency Reserve for a 5-year National Skills Agreement that will commence on 1 January 2024.
The Government will also restructure Apprenticeship Support Services to improve completions and strengthen training. The proposed new service model will place apprentices at the centre as the following areas will be addressed:
· Identify the individual needs of an apprentice or trainee, who may need support at the start of their training contract to provide the apprentice or trainee with the right foundation for success.
· Improve and increase mentoring services to improve outcomes for apprentices or trainees who are considered First Nations, apprentices with a disability, those who live remotely, women in male-dominated trades and others who experience barriers to completing their apprenticeship.
· Ensure more proactive support to apprentices and trainees within the first two years of starting their apprenticeship.
· Support employers to create a positive learning environment and workplace culture.
· Improve technology to streamline claims processing and program administration for employers.
This is fantastic news for both apprentices and employers as we look forward to helping more Australian workers pursue their careers in trades. As soon as we know more on the above initiatives, we will be in touch.
To find out how we at Apprenticeship Support Australia can support you, contact us here
If you would like to read more about the budget, our partner organisation Business NSW, has a full summary here
Kind Regards,
Apprenticeship Support Australia
