Two new reports released by the National Centre for Vocational Education Research (NCVER) have shown the number of Australian Apprentices in training continues to increase, The reports showed there are now 414,000 in training as at March 2007.
Training durations of apprentices have also come down. More than one-quarter (28 per cent) completed their training in two years or less, compared with 18 per cent in 1996.
"This report clearly demonstrates the continuing success of the Australian Government's efforts to address the skills and labour shortage, with more people recognising the opportunities that a vocational and technical education can bring." said the Minister for Vocational and Further Educaiton, Andrew Robb .
"For too long we have talked down the trades," Mr Robb said. "We need to get to the stage that a trade qualification is as valued as a university degree."
The NCVER report is available at www.ncver.edu.au
For more information on Australian Apprenticeships, visit: www.australianapprenticeships.gov.au.
