Apprentice and Trainee Numbers to be Boosted in Newcastle following Major Investment by NSW Government

City of Newcastle has welcomed the NSW Government’s announcement of a $252.2 million investment aimed at employing more apprentices and trainees across the local government sector statewide.

Minister for Local Government Ron Hoenig, along with Lord Mayor Nuatali Nelmes and Deputy Lord Mayor Declan Clausen, visited City of Newcastle’s Works Depot today. During the visit, they met with apprentices like Jazmin Webber, who recently won the Young Achiever’s Award at the Minister’s Awards for Women in Local Government.

Already, more than 170 applicants have expressed interest in City of Newcastle’s 2025 intake, which offers 12 positions across various departments, including human resources, civil construction, painting, horticulture, and greenkeeping.

Three of these roles are specifically targeted towards Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, reflecting City of Newcastle’s commitment to its Aboriginal Employment Strategy.

Lord Mayor Nuatali Nelmes affirmed the City of Newcastle’s dedication to fostering a skilled and well-trained workforce to address future challenges.

“We are committed to making a tangible impact in our community as a diverse, inclusive, and culturally welcoming employer of choice,” Cr Nelmes said.

“Each year, our apprentice and trainee program attracts significant interest, as it offers pathways into employment with mentoring from highly skilled professionals across a wide range of roles.

“It’s fantastic to witness the positive outcomes of this program, from Jazmin’s well-deserved recognition at the Minister’s awards to the 74 people who have completed this program and secured full-time employment at the City of Newcastle over the past four years.”

Minister Hoenig highlighted the importance of this funding, noting its potential to strengthen councils that provide essential services and facilities to communities.

“This investment will enable young people to pursue careers within their local communities, revitalising training networks and retaining talent in our regions,” Minister Hoenig said.

“With the housing crisis being the state government’s top priority, this funding will also ensure councils are equipped to build the infrastructure and facilities needed to support growing communities.”

Jazmin Webber, who became City of Newcastle’s first female carpenter after securing an apprenticeship in 2022, is currently among 40 apprentices, trainees, graduates, and undergraduates completing on-the-job training.

Ms Webber initially considered a career in medicine after finishing high school but has no regrets about her decision to pursue carpentry.

“The best part about an apprenticeship with City of Newcastle is the variety of work and the strong mentorship support. I’ve had the opportunity to work on a range of different projects with various mentors since starting in 2022,” Ms Webber said.

“I’m now in the third year of my carpentry apprenticeship, and I continue to learn every day. Each day I gain more confidence working independently.

“I also take pride in contributing to City of Newcastle by attending Workplace Health and Safety meetings and advocating for mental health initiatives.

“My goal is to complete my apprenticeship and secure a permanent position as a carpenter with City of Newcastle.”

Successful applicants will commence their roles with City of Newcastle in late January 2025.

For more information about apprenticeships and traineeships, please contact futurefit@ncc.nsw.gov.au.