Govt expands energy apprenticeships program

The Australian Government has announced changes to its New Energy Apprenticeship Program, which aims to encourage more people into sectors that will play an increasingly important role in the nation’s energy transition.

The changes, which come into effect on 1 June 2024, will broaden the program so that more apprentices and trainees are supported to gain skills in sectors such as housing construction, automotive and advanced manufacturing.

Under the changes, an apprentice’s work will no longer be required to be solely dedicated to clean energy, but the apprenticeship must still have a renewable energy skilling purpose. The program is also expanding the types of apprenticeships that are eligible — these now include designing and constructing hydroelectricity, solar and battery installations, and electric vehicle maintenance.

“We are constantly monitoring our programs and listening to industry to understand what they need to make access to programs designed to address skills needs easier and eligibility more commonsense,” said Minister for Skills and Training Brendan O’Connor.

“This is a great opportunity for Australians to gain a trade whilst accessing government incentives, as well as doing something tangible for the environment by working in industries that will reduce carbon emissions.”

The program will now cover 40 different occupations, providing apprentices with up to $10,000 for the duration of their apprenticeship.

More than 2210 apprentices have signed up since the program’s launch last year.

Image credit: iStock.com/Somsak Saeueng