Archive for November, 2009

The Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Education, and Employment and Workplace Relations, Julia Gillard, announced on Friday 20th November of the government’s support  for Australian Apprenticeships.

From the media release:

The Deputy Prime Minister, Julia Gillard, today hosted a national Keep Australian Apprentices Working Roundtable to address continuing trade skill shortages across Australia.

Ms Gillard, Minister for Employment Participation Mark Arbib and Parliamentary Secretary for Employment Jason Clare highlighted the need for continuing employer support for apprentices as Australia begins to emerge from the global recession.

Representatives at the Roundtable included the Australian Council of Trade Unions, Australian Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Australian Industry Group, Group Training Australia and most of the 11 Industry Skills Councils.

The Roundtable agreed to promote and support the Government’s Apprentice Kickstart initiative which more than triples the first year incentive paid to employers who take on an eligible apprentice this summer.

The increased bonus will be available between 1 December 2009 and 28 February 2010, or until 21 000 apprentices commence in skill shortage trades.

Apprenticeships applicable for the bonus scheme include Butcher and Baker apprenticeships.

Click here to view the full Media Release on the Department for Education, Employment and Workplace Relations website

Click here for more information on apprenticeships on the Australian Apprenticeships website