There are few more fundamental responsibilities of government than making sure Australians can get ahead and get a good job. The Albanese government understands that apprenticeships, vocational education and learning a trade matter. Backing apprentices and the businesses that take them on is how we build Australia's future in a way that supports workers, businesses, regions and the nation. It gives Australians meaningful work, a decent wage and, importantly, enables businesses to thrive and help grow our economy. That's why I'm pleased to speak in support of this motion, which recognises that the government's Key Apprenticeship Program is already delivering real outcomes.
In just the first six months, more than 11,400 housing construction apprentices have commenced, helping to address acute skill shortages and supporting the delivery of more homes where Australians need them. Just last week, I met Jack from Corio, a second year apprentice plumber supported by gforce, a local group training organisation that helps apprentices rotate across host employers to build a broad range of skills. Jack, who is working on the federal and state funded Armstrong Creek Sports Centre, has already worked with several employers across different disciplines ranging from roofing through to major commercial plumbing. This has given him the experience he needs to build a long and secure career. Jack told me, 'It's a great time to be an apprentice heading into the workforce.' But Jack was also honest about the challenges apprentices face, particularly cost-of-living pressures and managing payments while starting out.
That's exactly why the Key Apprenticeship Program matters.
Since 1 July 2025, more than 11,400 apprentices have commenced in housing construction trades and are eligible to receive $10,000 over the life of their apprenticeship. The payments help cover the real costs of starting out, including tools, equipment, fuel and travel. Right now the program is supporting over 4,000 carpenters and joiners, more than 2,300 plumbers and nearly 1,800 electricians across Australia. Importantly, employers also benefit with payments of up to $5,000 in the first year, which helps small businesses take on and retain apprentices.
The motion today also recognises additional measures to support apprentices beyond direct incentive payments. The living-away-from-home allowance has been increased for the first time in more than 20 years, providing support to apprentices who need to relocate for work. Support for employers hiring apprentices with disability has also been doubled, making workplaces more inclusive and accessible.
Industry has welcomed this targeted approach to skills and workplace development. The Housing Industry Association has said programs like the Key Apprenticeship Program are critical, particularly given that 85 per cent of apprentices are employed by small businesses. Master Builders Australia has confirmed these incentives are driving completions, with 95 per cent of trade apprentices finding work after finishing. Nationally, the data supports this approach. According to NCVER, there were 22 per cent more apprentices training in construction at 30 June 2025 compared to 2019.
These gains follow years of decline under the former coalition government, which, after a decade in office, left behind the worst skills shortage in 50 years. Just over the weekend, the opposition vowed to scrap the Key Apprenticeship Program. The opposition must explain how more homes will be built without training and backing in the tradespeople and businesses needed to deliver them. Our view on this issue is crystal clear: the Key Apprenticeship Program delivers fairness, opportunity and a better future for Australians. I thank the member for Bennelong for moving this motion and commend it to the House.
