Apprenticeships our states future – Gladstone Observer

The destructive Queensland floods, continued mining boom and government incentives have created massive opportunities for trade careers as skills shortages take hold.

Mr Steve Wyborn, General Manager, Sarina Russo Apprenticeship Services said there has never been a better time for jobseekers and employers to maximise the benefits of apprenticeships.

"The immediate and long-term demand for skills will provide tradies with long-term career opportunities which makes an apprenticeship a first rate career option," he said.

"Many managers at large industrial companies started off on the tools, and an apprenticeship is also a great stepping stone in owning your own business."

Mr Wyborn said it is never too late to start a trade career.

"Mature workers, women and people with a disability should build on their existing skills and access nationally recognised apprenticeship qualifications," he said.

"As skills shortages bite, many employers are also accessing government incentives to up-skill existing staff to improve productivity and decrease staff turnover.

"Smart businesses are creating workplaces where apprentices are treated as learners as well as workers because these employers understand ignorance is far more expensive than training.

"Sarina Russo Apprenticeship Services signs up new apprentices, pays employer incentives and apprenticeship allowances, assists with workplace training and completes and lodges all paperwork."

To learn more about the Australian Apprenticeship process, incentives and allowances, wages and frequently asked questions call Sarina Russo Apprenticeship Services toll free number 1300 883 425.

As part of the 2010 Federal Election campaign, the Australian Government announced the introduction of the Trades Apprentice Income Bonus from the start of this year.

The Trades Apprentice Income Bonus forms part of the Government's continuing response to maintain the increase in commencements and retention of people in skills shortage traditional trade apprenticeships as the Australian economy continues to recover from the impact of the global recession.

The Trades Apprentice Income Bonus has been incorporated into the Tools For Your Trade payment initiative and will be paid on top of existing payments currently available to Australian apprentices.

From 1 January this year, eligible apprentices will receive an additional tax exempt bonus of up to $1,700 as they reach milestones in their training.

For more information about Australian Government support for apprentices, visit www.australianapprenticeships.gov.au