The National Centre for Vocational Education Research (NCVER) report, What is Happening to Traditional Apprentice Completions?, shows that the number of Australian apprenticeship completions increased by more than 15 per cent and school-based apprenticeships rose by 13 per cent.

The Minister for Vocational and Technical Education, the Hon Gary Hardgrave MP, says the results show that the Australian Government's investment in the vocational education sector is reaping benefits.

"The Australian Government's initiatives to encourage people to take up and complete training opportunities, particularly in the trades, are working," Mr Hardgrave said.

"The message is being heard across the nation; vocational pathways lead to rewarding careers that directly contribute to the prosperity of our country."

Government initiatives announced in the recent federal budget include a Wage Top Up scheme which provides $2,000 tax free over two years to boost the incomes during the early eyars of their apprenticeships.

FAST FACTS

In the period June 2005 to June 2006:

• Australian apprenticeship commencements grew to 267,200 -- an increase of 3 per cent

• There was a 13 per cent growth in commencements of Australian school-based apprenticeships

• Australian apprenticeship completions grew to 142,400 -- an increase of 5 per cent

• In the trades, the numbers of Australian Apprenticeship completions grew by more than 15 per cent