3000 apprentices starting in regional Victoria under federal scheme
The Key Apprenticeship Program has supported more than 3000 apprentices in regional Victoria over 14 months. Each apprentice received $10,000.
The federal government started the scheme 14 months ago to address a lack of skilled workers in housing construction. Each apprentice gets $10,000 paid in five payments across their training.
Employers get $5000 to cover costs of taking them on. Minister for Skills and Training Andrew Giles said the payments help apprentices manage cost-of-living pressures and stay committed to their trades.
Defence contractor Thales in Bendigo is one of the biggest takers. Nine new apprentices will join at year's end, with another five arriving in 2027.
Thales aims eventually to have apprentices make up 10 per cent of the workforce. Thales built the Bushmaster for the Commonwealth, work that will last into the next decade.
The federal government has locked the program in until 2029 with targeted support for small and medium businesses from 2027 onwards.
- More than 3000 over 14 months
- Apprentices in regional Victoria
- $10,000 in five instalments
- Payment per apprentice
- $5000
- Employer incentive payment
- Until 2029
- Program commitment
Why it mattersAustralia faces critical skills shortages in construction and defence manufacturing. Direct wage support for apprentices helps recruit workers into long-term careers.
AustraliaAustralian trades are addressing workforce gaps through federal incentives; regional businesses in construction and defence manufacturing can now hire apprentices with government support.
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