Portfolio — 24 March 2026

The Minister for Employment and Workplace Relations released National Centre for Vocational Education and Research data showing strong post-completion outcomes for Australian apprentices: 95 per cent of trade apprentices and 89 per cent of non-trade apprentices moved directly into work after finishing their training [TA-260325-dewr-80f3e1fa25f6]. Satisfaction rates among completers were high, with more than 90 per cent reporting satisfaction with both on-the-job and off-the-job components, and 92 per cent recording an improvement in employment status [TA-260325-dewr-80f3e1fa25f6].

The minister used the research to frame the government's apprenticeship incentive settings as aligned with demonstrated workforce demand. The Key Apprenticeship Program provides $10,000 payments to apprentices in housing construction and clean energy, with up to $5,000 available to employers in an apprentice's first year. Two recent payment changes broaden the support base: employer assistance for hiring apprentices with a disability has been doubled, and the Living Away from Home Allowance for apprentices has been near-doubled — the first increase to either payment in 20 years.

The portfolio's sectoral focus spans construction, clean energy, telecommunications, and care and support services, linking apprenticeship investment directly to the government's housing, energy transition, and social care priorities.