Aussie Rules icon barracks for Kickstart program

The federal government’s Kickstart program has an Aussie Rules icon onside. Head coach of the Greater Western Sydney Giants Kevin Sheedy has voiced his support for the program, encouraging both employers and potential apprentices to take advantage of the program.

The Kickstart program triples the incentive paid in the first year to small and medium business owners who take on a new apprentice before the end of February 2013.

Sheedy said the $57.5 million Apprentice Kickstart program would have helped create extra opportunities when he worked as a plumber.

“If you want to be an apprentice in the construction industry, why don’t you take this as an opportunity to talk to employers in your local area?” Sheedy said. “Taking on an apprentice or a trainee allows you to train your future workforce to your standards, how you want the job done. And that’s got to be good for business.”

“Kickstart is part of a long-term plan to ensure Australia has the skilled workers it needs, ahead of the predicted upturn in the housing industry in 2014 and 2015,” said Chris Evans, Minister for Skills.

“We’re making sure the next generation of plumbers, electricians, carpenters and other tradespeople are in training now, so we’re ahead of the game.”

Evans said 500 applications from potential apprentices were received within the first two weeks of the program’s commencement.

For more information on the Kickstart program or to apply, visit www.australianapprenticeships.gov.au.