WA’s next generation of tradies tool up to build more homes
The foundations of Western Australia's future workforce are being laid, with 3,470 apprentices starting under the Albanese Labor Government’s Key Apprenticeship Program (KAP) housing construction stream in its first 13 months. The data shows strong take-up across WA, with apprentices training in the trades that help build the homes we live in, the buildings we work in, and the infrastructure communities rely on every day.
Carpenters and joiners led commencements with 983 apprentices, followed by 785 electrical trades workers and 642 plumbers. Around 77% of housing construction apprenticeships are with small and medium businesses, giving apprentices the opportunity to develop their skills with employers across WA. Eligible full-time apprentices can receive up to $10,000 over the course of their apprenticeship to help with costs such as tools, equipment and transport.
Eligible employers can receive up to $5,000 to support apprentices through their first year. More than half of apprentices commencing through the housing construction stream in WA were aged 19 years and under. The program has also supported an increasing number of women and First Nations apprentices.
WA continues to grow, increasing the need for housing, infrastructure and skilled workers. The state's population has passed 3 million, dwelling commencements reached 22,567 in 2024–25, and the construction workforce reached a record 172,500 workers in February 2026. Under KAP, more Western Australians are building careers in the trades while strengthening the state's future workforce.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Employment and Workplace Relations, Amanda Rishworth: "Apprenticeships create pathways into secure and rewarding jobs while helping employers build the workforce they need and that’s why our government is investing in apprentices." "A strong housing workforce starts with people willing to take up a trade and employers willing to invest in the next generation.
"Building more homes starts with building the workforce behind them." Quotes attributable to Minister for Skills and Training, Andrew Giles: "Learning a trade can open the door to a rewarding career and skills that are in demand across WA, and across the country. "The Key Apprenticeship Program is helping apprentices stay in training and complete their qualification by providing practical support throughout their apprenticeship.
"There’s never been a better time to get on the tools – and the Albanese Labor Government is backing you to start and complete your apprenticeship."