Praise for new $10k apprentice scheme as tradies plan ramps up

Apprentices are set to benefit from a new $10k incentive scheme to make the path to a trade less challenging.

Territory apprentices will be able to access up to $10,000 in Commonwealth incentive payments to make their journey through the trade-training process more affordable.

From July 1, the Housing Construction Apprenticeship Program will provide eligible apprentices with $2000 payments at six, 12, 24 and 36 months and upon completion of the trade, to help ease the cost-of-living pressures that can deter people from entering a trade.

Solomon MP Luke Gosling said the program would support 1600 apprentices in Solomon as well as strengthen the local workforce for the housing construction sector.

He said the measure was part of federal Labor’s plans to build 1.2 million homes nationally including about 11,000 in the Northern Territory over the next five years through the Homes for Australia plan.

Solomon MP Luke Gosling

The measure followed a strategic review of the Australian apprenticeship incentive system by Dr Iain Ross and Ms Lisa Paul, which identified cost-of-living pressures as a key barrier to apprenticeships.

“This funding isn’t just about apprenticeships - it’s about securing the future of our local workforce, giving Solomon’s apprentices the tools and financial support they need to succeed in building homes for Australians,” Mr Gosling said.

“Incentive payments, increased allowances, and additional support for apprentices with disabilities are real, tangible measures that will reduce the cost of living for local families and create more opportunities for apprentices across Darwin and Palmerston.

“This initiative is a win for local apprentices and local builders alike. By providing critical support throughout their training, we are not only building more homes but also investing in Territorians.”

Group Training NT chief executive Kathryn Stenson.

Mr Gosling also highlighted federal government increases in living away from home allowances for apprentices, increased Disability Australian Apprentice Wage Support and extension of the 2025 priority list and ongoing incentive payments for apprentices.

Group Training NT chief executive Kathryn Stenson said the Territory had major construction projects in the pipeline and a “significant uptake” in apprenticeship commencements would be required to complete those.

She also praised the increases in housing and disability allowances provided by the commonwealth.

“GTNT Group warmly welcomes these measures as a substantial means to address cost of living pressures for apprentices who are eligible for the support,” Ms Stenson said.

“These initiatives respond to some of the short term recommendations of the Strategic Review of the Australian Apprenticeship Incentive System., which is comprehensive, technical and detailed.”

For details contact theapprenticeshippeople.com.au

Originally published as Praise for new $10k apprentice scheme as tradies plan ramps up