What new TAFE subsidy could mean for the Burnett's economy

The State Government has announced free apprenticeships to anyone under 21 years of age, and it could provide a boost for the region's businesses.

The $32 million investment will take away the cost of training and help an estimated 60,000 young people into a trade. Picture: Rob Williams

THE State Government has announced free apprenticeships to anyone under 21 years of age, and this change could mean more career prospects for those in the Burnett region.

The $32 million investment will take away the cost of training and help an estimated 60,000 young people get into a trade.

Debbie Jackson, faculty director for infrastructure and primary industries for TAFE Queensland South West, based at the Kingaroy campus, said this would do wonders for the South and North Burnett economy.

"I am very encouraged because the program offers the opportunities to assist our local businesses and young locals looking for work,” Ms Jackson said.

"Businesses will have their apprentices' and trainees' TAFE tuition fees fully subsidised by the State Government.

"This should encourage Burnett businesses to take on more apprentice and trainees. It just makes it that much easier for local businesses, and will be great for our economy.”

The fully subsidised training will be offered in 139 priority industries.

This means industries showing a high demand for workers, including:

• Electrical
• Plumbing
• Engineering
• Healthcare
• Hospitality
• Early childhood

Minister for Training and Skills Development Shannon Fentiman said this would be a good step forward for Queensland.

"We need to plan for the future of Queensland and ensure we have the skilled workers we need now and for the emerging industries,” she said.

"This investment in free apprenticeships will support local businesses to be able to take on more apprentices and trainees - we are backing their business to grow.

"Right now, businesses bear the cost for training an apprentice. We will be removing this expense to support businesses to be able to take on more apprentices and trainees.”

Originally published as What new TAFE subsidy could mean for the Burnett's economy