December 2009
Learning or earning: New education and training requirements for 15 to 24 year olds
All governments in Australia have agreed to a Compact with Young Australians, which comprises a National Youth Participation (‘learn or earn’) Requirement for under 17 year olds; an entitlement to education or training places for 15 to 24 year olds; and changes to Youth Allowance (Other) and Family Tax Benefit (Part A) for young people aged under 21 without Year 12 or an equivalent qualification, making education and training a precondition for income support.
For more details, visit the DEEWR website.
November 2009
Keep Australian Apprentices Working Roundtable
On 20 November, the Australian Government hosted the Keep Australian Apprentices Working Roundtable for industry to engage with the Government on strategies and immediate actions to ensure Australia plans for and builds the appropriate levels of skilled trade workers.
For more information see the media release.
Australian Youth Forum (AYF) Discussion topic - Apprenticeships and Trades Training
We are keen to know your experience with apprenticeships. The AYF is hosting ‘Apprenticeships and Trades Training’ as a discussion board topic from now until 30 November. Give your opinion on the AYF website if you are considering an apprenticeship, have an apprenticeship now or have completed an apprenticeship.
October 2009
Today, the Deputy Prime Minister announced Apprentice Kickstart - a $100 million investment to support two measures designed to counteract the impact of the global recession on Australian Apprenticeships commencements and retention. It also aims to increase opportunities for young people to transition from school to trade training, improving their chances of engaging with long term employment.
The Apprentice Kickstart package introduces two initiatives: an $80 million time limited Apprentice Kickstart Bonus for employers of Australian Apprentices in skills shortage trades and $20 million to Increase Pre-Apprenticeship Training Opportunities.