Nominations for the 2026 Northern Territory Training Awards are now open.
Eligible winners of the Northern Territory Training Awards will represent the Territory at the Australian Training Awards later in the year.
Minister for Education and Training, Jo Hersey, highlighted the importance of skills training towards the CLP Government's plan to rebuild the economy.
The Finocchiaro CLP Government has opened nominations for this year's Northern Territory Training Awards.
In it's 71st year, the awards recognise outstanding achievers in the Vocational Education and Training (VET) sector from local businesses and training organisations, to apprentices, trainees, and students.
Last year's finalists represented a wide range of industries including business, civil works, electro technology, mechanical, air conditioning and refrigeration, aquaculture, training and assessing, health, agriculture, maritime, community services and early childhood.
Minister for Education and Training, Jo Hersey, said VET is a key part of the Finocchiaro CLP Government's plan to rebuild the economy.
"We know that to rebuild the economy, we need a skilled workforce," she said.
"Our Government takes skills training seriously, that's why we've invested in building a new Industry, Trade and Technical College at Sanderson High School in Darwin's Northern Suburbs, and a new Regional Industry, Trade and Flexible Education College for years 10-12 in Alice Springs as part of the Secondary School reforms. here
"I encourage individuals, employers and training organisations to be part of the Northern Territory Training Awards this year.
"If you know someone doing outstanding work, or you're proud of your own achievements, now is the time to nominate."
Evie Rushforth, who completed a Certificate III in Mechanical Engineering with South32 on Groote Eylandt, received the 2025 Austin Asche Apprentice of the Year award, and went on to be crowned the 2025 Australian Apprentice of the Year.
"You never know what's out there. I come from a legal background, and I never expected this is how my life would turn out," she said.
"I feel that I am so lucky that I took the chance on doing an apprenticeship because I now do what I really want to do, and I love my job.
"Winning the Austin Asche Apprentice of the Year award is just the start for me. My future is bright."
Winners will be announced at the Gala Awards dinner on Saturday the 19th of September in Darwin, where eligible winners will then go on to represent the Territory at the Australian Training Awards.
