15 Mar 2012
Statement by Wilhelm Harnisch, Chief Executive Officer
Australia's 53,000 construction apprentices are set to gain access to a range of much-needed new mentoring and support services, after Skills Minister Chris Evans today announced Commonwealth Government support for the $12 million Construction Apprenticeship Mentoring Scheme developed by Master Builders Australia.
An initial grant of $3.5 million will allow the rollout of dedicated Apprenticeship Engagement Officers to Master Builders' offices around Australia, the introduction of an industry-wide volunteer mentoring scheme, expanded information programs for school students and a new program to support apprentices who lose their job due to industry conditions.
"This funding under the Apprenticeship Mentoring Program represents a major commitment to the future of the Australian building and construction industry by both the Government and Master Builders," said Master Builders CEO Wilhelm Harnisch.
"Building and construction is the largest employer of trades apprentices and faces long term skill shortages. As the peak body for the industry, Master Builders wants to see the best people coming into apprenticeships, and we want to support them to complete their studies and become qualified tradespeople. Currently too many people are leaving apprenticeships because of personal life issues, workplace conflict or other challenges."
The Construction Apprenticeship Mentoring Scheme, which involves joint funding from the Commonwealth and industry, will offer a comprehensive, nationally co-ordinated approach to apprenticeship support. It will integrate a range of strategies including online engagement, use of volunteer mentors and access to a range of support materials and programs. It is anticipated that the Scheme will be operational by mid-2012.
Media Enquiries Please Contact:
Wilhelm Harnisch, Chief Executive Officer
Mobile: 0402 039 039
Christine McDonnell
Executive Assistant to the CEO
Master Builders Australia
Level 1, 16 Bentham Street (PO Box 7170)
Yarraluma ACT 2600
P: 02 6202 8888 F: 02 6202 8877 D: 02 6202 8802
E: christine.mcdonnell@masterbuilders.com.au