Data released by the National Centre for Vocational Education Research (NCVER) in December indicates that for the period ending 30 June 2024, apprenticeship and traineeship commencement numbers increased by 2.7% compared to the previous 12 months ending 30 June 2023.
Construction trades workers commencement numbers declined by 5.2% compared to the previous 12 months, while electrotechnology and automotive and engineering trades workers all increased by 5.3%.
30 June 2024 marked the end of the generous Priority Wage Subsidy (up to $15,000 over three years) and the Hiring Incentive for all apprentices not on the Priority List of $3,500. From 1 July 2024, employer incentives of $5,000 are only payable for occupations listed on the Priority List.
