MG:NECA welcomes government funded incentives for apprentices

NECA/National Electrical & Communications Association

Tuesday, 10 May, 2011

National Electrical and Communications Association (NECA), an Australian electrical industry body, has welcomed the $281m commitment by the Australian Government for additional tax free payments to encourage apprentices in critical trades to complete their qualifications.

Prime Minister Julia Gillard last week confirmed that the funding would be included in the 2011 budget. Businesses in the electrical industry currently invest heavily in training apprentices but non-completion is a factor that can prevent electrical contractors from taking on more apprentices, said NECA chief executive officer, James Tinslay.

Many electrical contractors invest huge amounts of time, resources and money throughout a standard four-year apprenticeship. However, it is damaging to businesses when an apprentice decides not to complete their training, Tinslay said. “It can be hard for some businesses to take on a new apprentice if they have not had a positive experience or a return on their training investment from an apprentice that decides to cut short their training." NECA is also calling for further incentives for business to take on new apprentices to help address the skill shortage in the industry.