NSW Government announces free training for jobs in plumbing, carpentry and electrotechnology
The New South Wales government is making a record investment in TAFE and skills funding to boost tradie numbers and close the workforce gap in the construction industry.
In an announcement, the NSW government unveiled a $3.4-billion investment, including a $40.2-million investment towards fee-free apprenticeships and traineeships over two years.
The funding will support an additional 23,000 construction apprenticeships, granting people access to free training for jobs such as plumbing, carpentry, and electrotechnology.
"TAFE NSW is crucial to delivering the skills we need now and, in the future, and this landmark investment will ensure TAFE continues to meet the needs of industry and the community," said Skills, TAFE and Tertiary Education Minister Steve Whan in a statement.
"This government is funding the training and skills development needed to grow our construction workforce and help tackle the state's housing challenges."
According to the state government, the investment will be complemented by a $13.8 million Construction Workforce Package.
The package is designed to upskill and support 4,800 workers into residential construction jobs over the next two years. The funding will be divided into:
"Whether you're already working in construction, new to the industry, or just starting out at school – the Construction Workforce Package will open new pathways into construction for thousands of people across the state," Whan said.
Meanwhile, the NSW government also said it is investing in repairing TAFE campuses and supporting the relocation of teaching operations from TAFE NSW Bankstown to Western Sydney University Tower and TAFE NSW Padstow.
It will also invest $78 million to convert eligible teachers from casual to permanent jobs.
The record investment is the government's plan to invest in the construction workforce to tackle the state's housing crisis.
"You can't build homes without workers and this Budget delivers both. It ensures our investment in housing is backed by an investment in people," said Treasurer Daniel Mookhey in a statement.
"It's a targeted investment that delivers immediate benefits while building long-term capacity in the NSW workforce."
