The National Electrical and Communications Association (NECA) has commended the Federal government’s commitment to vocational training through extending apprentice subsidies to businesses of all sizes in the upcoming Budget; a vital lifeline for the electrical and communications industry NECA has called for in its pre-budget submission.

Lise Sperling, NECA Head of Policy and Government Relations said:

“NECA has long called for the apprentice wage subsidy to be made available to employers of any size. This is a great and much needed commitment by our Federal government and a crucial step toward ensuring a skilled and strong trade industry to support the Australian economy as we emerge out of this pandemic.

“This support comes at a critical time when restrictions are being eased, and will encourage businesses looking to take on apprentices to commit to investing in young people and developing the skills for the future.

“To further strengthen the recovery through investment in skills, NECA recommends the Government consider additional support measures for the employment of mature age apprentices in the trades.

“We look forward to seeing how these new measures fit within the broader Federal Budget announcements to come. As our recent survey of the electrical and communications industry shows, the economic recovery hangs in the balance. Supporting vocational training is only one piece of the puzzle that will support business make it through this challenging period and rebuild a stronger Australia.”

NECA is strongly committed to supporting the next generation of electrical and communications contractors. Working with our Registered Training Organisations (RTOs) and Group Training Organisations (GTOs), NECA provides employment and ongoing skills development for approximately 4,800 apprentices across Australia. Approximately one in three electrical apprentices in Australia is a NECA apprentice.

More information regarding the Boosting Apprenticeship Commencements wage subsidy – including maximum payment amounts – is provided here.

NECA’s Pre-Budget Submission, which outlines a series of policy measures that would stimulate the economy, support business and protect jobs, can be seen here. 

ENDS