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Boost for WA construction careers

Inside Construction Expo 2023

Boost for WA construction careersQualified apprentices in Western Australia will have access to improved civil construction training and career pathways, following the launch of the State Government’s Construction Training Fund.

The $14.3 million Construction Training Fund (CTF) to support the sector over the next four years and includes $4.5 million for a trade-related tools and safety equipment for apprentices and trainees.

Eligible apprentices will be able to claim up to $500 each from the CTF for purchases made between July 1, 2022 and June 30, 2023.

To support the introduction of a new apprenticeship pathway for the civil construction sector, the CTF is providing eligible employers with a wage gap subsidy to cover the difference in wages paid between the new apprenticeship and outgoing traineeship.

The CTF also offers an initiative for young people to obtain a licence to gain entry into the construction sector.

The CTF also includes an additional $1.6 million of incentives for employers and apprentices involved in rebuilding disaster-affected regions to support communities impacted by the Wooroloo bushfires and Cyclone Seroja. Under the scheme, employers can claim up to an additional $6000 from the CTF over two years and apprentices can receive up to $,000 over the same period.

Education and Training Minister Sue Ellery said the CTF is a response to workforce issues raised by industry leaders.

“The civil construction apprenticeship program will improve the quality of training in civil construction and create robust career pathways into the industry, with the $5.1 million wage gap subsidy to ensure a pipeline of junior and mature-age qualified apprentices,” Ellery said.

The CTF is statutory authority established to ensure Western Australia’s building and construction industry can meet demand for skilled workers. CTF is managed by a Board of industry representatives appointed by the Minister for Education and Training, led by Board Chair, Reg Howard-Smith.

For more information on the CTF, click here.

 


 

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