Construction Industry Training Board injects funds into training

Construction workers and apprentices will have access to cheaper training following new funding from the Construction Industry Training Board.

Construction workers and apprentices will have access to more affordable training courses following new funding supported by the Construction Industry Training Board (CITB).

An additional $430,000 raised from the Construction Industry Training Fund (CITF) levy will go towards further savings on subsidised training courses, while also helping regional tradespeople access more affordable training programs.

The funding comes as the demand for skills in the building and construction industry surges on the back of the federal government’s HomeBuilder stimulus scheme.

CITB presiding member Maree Wauchope said the new funding measures would focus on the most in-demand skills needs.

“The board made the decision to increase funding for successful training initiatives and to maintain support into the next financial year,” she said.

“The CITB works to ensure levy payments are invested in crucial areas that matter like apprenticeship support and direct funding for high quality training.”

Black Chilli Constructions owner Alex Sawley with Mitchell Tonks who completed his carpentry apprenticeship last year. Picture: Tom Huntley

The CITF levy of 0.25 per cent is collected by the CITB on the value of building and construction projects valued at more than $40,000.

It is normally paid by the builder, but in some cases is paid by the property owner.

CITB chief executive Andrew Fullgrabe said the levy had helped more than 13,000 construction workers access more affordable training last financial year.

With the new funding, he said the average cost of undertaking more than 100 courses would be halved, while the range of courses available to more than 6000 apprentices would be broadened.

“This includes courses to upskill employees in work health and safety training, construction skills and management,” he said.

“The levy is helping construction workers undertake training that complements their existing trade qualifications and improves their skills or knowledge.”

Training providers would also be supported to deliver more courses in regional areas with a doubling of the existing travel subsidy.

Mitchell Tonks, 22, is a leading hand carpenter with Black Chilli Constructions after completing his apprenticeship late last year.

He said training was often expensive but he plans to further develop his skills through programs subsidised by the CITB.

“Initially I wanted to serve in the army and went through the interviews but had a change of heart, and my construction trainer from CITB’s doorways2construction program in high school was there for me,” Mr Tonks said.

“My apprenticeship mentor from the Housing Industry Association introduced me to my boss, Alex, who runs a carpentry business.

“From the very first day I knew that was what I wanted to do with the rest of my life.

“In the future I want to continue building with my employer and will need to do business management courses.”

Skills Minister David Pisoni said training was crucial as the “home building boom creates massive demand for tradies”.

“The Marshall Government’s $280 million investment in skills training is critical to ensuring South Australia has the skilled workforce necessary to drive further investment and even greater job creation.”