REGIONAL employers are being encouraged to take part in a new government subsidy scheme offering support towards the costs of employing apprentices.
The Morrison Government will invest $60m to trial the new scheme, which will see up to 1630 new Australian apprentices in areas of skills needs.
The new subsidy will support eligible new apprentices in trades such as plumbing, mechanical, electrical, painting and hairdressing.
Barker MP Tony Pasin said eligible employers would receive payments based on the apprentice’s relevant award wage rates.
“Subsidies will be provided at 75pc of the apprentice’s award wage in the first year, followed with 50pc in the second year and 25pc in the third year,” he said.
“The investment is part of our government’s commitment to maintain a strong vocational education and training sector that delivers the quality skilled workforce our community needs.”
Industry and Skills Minister David Pisoni said he had written letters to all regional councils and Regional Development Australia outlining the benefits of the trial.
Mr Pisoni said the Federal Government’s program would support Skilling South Australia’s target to create an additional 20,800 apprentices and trainees while also strengthening the VET sector.
“This program is ensuring business is being supported through a skilled workforce, thanks to a four-year $203m commitment from both the federal and state governments to achieve this target,” he said.
“Businesses across regional South Australia should take advantage of this incentive to tap into the skills of local students and provide opportunities for them closer to their homes.”
Member for MacKillop Nick McBride said the subsidy would not only help create more than 100 new apprenticeships in South Australia, but address skill shortages for small business in regional areas.
“Too often we see young people leave regional areas because of a lack of employment opportunities,” he said.
“These subsidies will help employers not only keep young people in the region, but attract them there.
“Helping small businesses with employment subsidies will ensure regional communities continue to grow and prosper.”
The Australian Apprenticeships Incentives Program begins on January 1, 2019.
