The federal government will invest $220 million dollars every year to establish a new apprenticeship support network.
The Australian Apprenticeship Support Network aims to increase apprenticeship completion rates (current completion rates are approximately 50 percent). It will do this by giving apprentices the best opportunities to get a job, as well as providing employers with the qualified and productive apprentices they need for their businesses.
Through the Network, apprentices will be provided assistance to find an employer to begin their apprenticeship. They will also receive mentoring and career advice throughout the duration of their apprenticeship, so that they can successfully complete it. Businesses will also be provided advice on hiring apprentices, specifically focusing on their roles and responsibilities to administering the apprenticeship.
The Network is a result of the federal government receiving feedback from employers, apprentices and industry groups on how to improve the current support system. The current support system is known for being largely administrative and containing too much red tape and not enough support for apprentices.
This news comes almost two months after the commencement of Trade Support Loans. The Loans offer up to $20,000 to apprentices over the course of their apprenticeships and provide a HELP-esque loan repayment option.
Access to the Network for both apprentices and businesses comes at no cost. The Network will commence from July 1, 2015.