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The NSW Government, led by Premier Chris Minns, has announced a significant $252.2 million investment aimed at employing 1,300 new apprentices and trainees across the state’s local councils. This initiative, the largest of its kind in recent years, seeks to address the critical skills shortage in the public sector and is set to revitalise local government workforces.
The funding will be directed towards creating new roles in various trades, including electricians, plumbers, engineers, civil construction workers, and mechanics. These positions are part of a broader effort to ensure that 15 per cent of council workforces consist of apprentices, trainees, and cadets. This initiative aligns with findings from the Australian Local Government Association, which has highlighted a pressing need to bolster workforce numbers.
Premier Minns emphasised the importance of this investment in building stronger communities across NSW. “These 1,300 new apprentices and trainees will play a key role in building the homes and communities of our state’s future,” Minns stated. He noted that this initiative would particularly benefit smaller towns and regional communities, where training opportunities are often limited.
Minister for Local Government Ron Hoenig echoed this sentiment, highlighting the program’s potential to address the looming skills crisis in councils. “Councils have been crying out for a solution to the looming skills crisis for years,” Hoenig said. He added that the investment would ensure councils are equipped to support growing communities, particularly in the context of the state’s housing crisis.
The City of Newcastle has also expressed strong support for the program. Lord Mayor Nuatali Nelmes and Labor candidate for Mayor of Lake Macquarie, Cr Adam Shultz, welcomed the initiative. Nelmes noted that these new apprenticeships would provide valuable career opportunities for school leavers, further enhancing the region’s skilled workforce. The City of Newcastle has already doubled its number of apprentices in 2023, reflecting its commitment to fostering local talent.
Minister for the Hunter, Yasmin Catley MP, highlighted the benefits for the Hunter region, stating, “This $252 million investment in 1,300 new apprentices will benefit all communities in the Hunter.” Catley underscored the NSW Government’s commitment to creating opportunities for young people in their home communities.
The United Services Union (USU) also lauded the announcement, recognising its potential to alleviate longstanding skills shortages. USU General Secretary, Graeme Kelly OAM, pointed out that the scheme would prevent young people from having to move to cities for work or training. Kelly praised the government’s swift action in addressing the skills crisis, stating, “The previous government wasn’t listening when councils from Armidale to Albury were crying out about skills shortages and their aging workforce. To their credit, Chris Minns and Ron Hoenig have heard them and taken decisive action.”
This substantial investment not only promises to enhance the workforce within NSW’s 128 councils but also underscores the government’s commitment to supporting local communities. With guidelines for councils being developed and the first apprentices expected to start early next year, this initiative is set to play a crucial role in shaping the future of skilled labour in New South Wales.
Written by: Newy Staff
Newy 87.8 FM is an FM radio station established in 2014 targeting Classic Hits music enthusiasts across Newcastle and The Central Coast, Australia. The station plays 60s 70s and 80s music. The station can be streamed online via this website or smart phone apps such as Tunein. In 2024 we opened a local newsroom dedicated to publishing Newcastle News.
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