A new Apprenticeship Pilot Program, which aims to beat skills shortages in trades such as bricklaying, carpentry and painting, is now underway with recruiters being appointed.
Minister for Human Services, Michelle Lensink said, following a competitive tender process, the successful recruiters for the Program included Career Employment Group; HIA Apprentices SA; Master Builders Association of SA; Murraylands Training and Employment SA; and Statewide Group Training SA.
Ms Lensink said the organisations would recruit candidates for the Program, including social housing customers, women and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders, and the apprentices would work on building sites, including Government projects.
She said the Program would help reduce trade shortages by providing $5,000 per year for each apprenticeship over four years – and a total of 250 people.
“Our new Pilot Program will boost the supply of apprentices to support the construction sector and meet the increasing demand for these skills, as well as inspire and support South Australians achieve greater economic independence,” Ms Lensink said.
Minister for Innovation and Skills, David Pisoni said the pilot program built on the outcomes already achieved through the Government’s $200 million Skilling South Australia program.
Mr Pisoni said the pilot also coincided with the Government’s $400 million commitment to deliver 1,000 new affordable homes by 2025, supporting vital jobs in the construction and building industry, and helping more South Australians into homeownership.
He said building for the 1,000 new affordable homes was now underway.
