The latest national data on apprentices and trainees shows the NSW Liberal and Nationals Government’s record investment in skills continues to drive nation-leading results, with more than 115,000 apprentices and trainees in training across the State.

Minister for Skills and Training Alister Henskens said the National Centre for Vocational Education and Research (NCVER) report shows NSW recorded a 9.3 per cent increase in the number of apprentices and trainees in training, compared with the previous 12-month period.

“NSW is leading the nation when it comes to skills and training, with more people in training than any other state, ensuring that we continue to build a strong pipeline of skilled, job-ready workers to help grow our economy,” Mr Henskens said.

“One of today’s highlights is an almost 19 per cent increase in female apprentices and trainees in training across NSW, which is testament to programs like Built for Women, which are encouraging more women into traditional trades.

“Across the board, commencements and completions of apprenticeships and traineeships are also up, further strengthening the skilled workforce and helping keep unemployment at historic lows.

“The data also reveals that over the last two years, despite the challenges we’ve faced, NSW has recorded a 42 per cent increase in apprenticeship and traineeship commencements. For females alone, commencements are up 59 per cent.

“The NSW Government’s record $3.1 billion investment in skills and training in the Budget will further turbocharge the take-up of vocational education and training, securing a brighter future for people in NSW.”

The NSW Government is removing barriers to vocational education and training for young people through unprecedented investments in fee-free training as well as programs like the Educational Pathways Program and Careers NSW.

Reforms to the HSC and ATAR will also increase the take-up of vocational education and training, by significantly expanding the education and employment pathways available to young people.