Builders back new $60m for apprentice wage subsidy

The $60 million expansion of the Apprentice Wage Subsidy for rural and regional Australia announced by the Prime Minister today is strongly supported by Master Builders Australia.

“The doubling in the number of participants from around 1600 to around 3200 is good news for the thousands of building and construction businesses that are creating economic growth in rural and regional communities around the country,” Denita Wawn, CEO of Master Builders Australia said.

“Master Builders has been calling on all parties at this election to commit to measures to boost the skilled workforce to fill the secure and rewarding career opportunities in our industry. So it’s good to see the Government building on its Budget commitment to fund 80,000 new apprenticeships in areas of skill need such as building and construction,” she said.

“Building and construction is the nation’s second largest industry and biggest provider of full time jobs. Our thousands of members in rural and regional Australia welcome measures that help them build business success and stronger local economies,” Denita Wawn said.