Businesses, apprentices and trainees across the Gilmore electorate will be able to access innovative support services through four organisations under the new Australian Apprenticeship Support Network that was announced on Monday.
Assistant Minister for Education and Training, Senator Simon Birmingham, is visiting Nowra today and said the Australian Apprenticeship Support Network (AASN), which will commence on 1 July, is a $200 million annual investment to recruit, train and retain apprentices and trainees across Australia.
“The aim of this new Apprenticeship Support Network is to improve apprenticeship and traineeship completion rates,” Senator Birmingham said, “which at around 50 per cent under Labor’s old model of support are unacceptably low.”
“The Government is introducing a new outcomes-based arrangement that financially rewards completions, with targeted mentoring to assist apprentices or employers facing difficulty.
“With around 1800 Australian Apprentices in training throughout the Gilmore electorate, it is important that the right support networks are in place for employers and apprentices.”
Federal Member for Gilmore, Ms Ann Sudmalis MP said MEGT, VERTO, Sarina Russo and Chambers Apprenticeship Support Australia will deliver services from approximately 65 locations across NSW, including within the Gilmore electorate.
“I’m delighted that local employers, and particularly small business owners, will receive more efficient help in navigating the apprenticeships system, while individuals will be better supported to complete their training,” Ms Sudmalis said.
“The organisations who will deliver these services locally all have proven track records in the employment and training market.
“These services will help to reduce non-completion by ensuring our region has the right apprentices undertaking the right apprenticeships with the right employers.
“Improved completion rates will help more Gilmore residents realise the full benefits of an apprenticeship, and the rewarding careers that can come as a result.”
The AASN will introduce more efficient online processes that focus resources away from paperwork and into delivering advice and direct support.
“New targeted pre-commencement services will ensure prospective apprentices and employers have the requisite skills, aptitude and information before signing up,” Senator Birmingham said.
Eleven organisations nationwide make up the AASN, which will deliver services through more than 440 apprenticeship network provider locations, including in rural and remote areas. Locations are the subject of final contract negotiations and will be announced shortly.
The full list of Australian Apprenticeship Support Network providers can be viewed at: http://docs.education.gov.au/node/37759.
Media contact (Minister Birmingham): Caitlin Keage 0427 729 987
Media contact (Ms Sudmalis): Kate Ryan 0408 449 117