A new $32.4 million wage subsidy will create 300 new jobs for apprentices and trainees with Group Training Schemes in Western Australia’s in-demand building and construction sector.
Delivering on a McGowan Government election commitment, the Group Training Organisation (GTO) Wage Subsidy will provide small and medium-sized enterprises with access to 150 additional and highly subsidised apprentices and trainees in 2022 to work on State Government projects.
A further 150 highly subsidised apprentices and trainees will be made available in 2023.
The 2021-22 State Budget includes funding over the next four years for a $30.7 billion infrastructure program, which is designed to keep the economy strong by continuing a pipeline of construction work beyond the current boom.
The GTO Wage Subsidy will help to ensure WA’s longer-term recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic by supporting the construction sector with more apprentices and trainees, who are vital for building a diverse and skilled workforce.
It will assist the building and construction sector to continue supporting apprentices and trainees through their training, while keeping the State’s Asset Investment Program rolling and responsive to industry needs.
The wage subsidy covers the average estimated award wage payable to apprentices and trainees in the building and construction sector, for the period of time the apprentice or trainee remains actively employed in a training contract.
More information, including eligibility criteria, can be found on the Jobs and Skills WA website at https://www.jobsandskills.wa.gov.au/gws
Small and medium-sized enterprises can contact their local GTO or visit https://www.australianapprenticeships.gov.au to find out more about the subsidy.
As stated by Education and Training Minister Sue Ellery:
“Vocational education and training plays a vital role in the creation of a diverse and skilled workforce.
“This initiative will directly help small to medium-sized businesses and create 300 new jobs for apprentices and trainees working on State Government projects in the building and construction industry.
“The McGowan Government recognises the importance of the vocational education and training sector in supporting the continuing success of WA’s economic recovery.
“This new $32.4 million wage subsidy will support apprentices and trainees to continue their training, while responding to industry needs.”
