- WA Workforce Strategy 2026-2030 sets out a clear plan to deliver the workers WA needs
- Expanded support measures to supercharge the number of apprentices on the tools
- Package builds on the Cook Labor Government's record investment in TAFE and training
- Skilled workforce needed to build more homes, staff hospitals, and diversify our economy
The Cook Labor Government is building the workforce our economy needs for the future, with a new plan to deliver more apprentices and skilled workers to support the State's growth.
From January 1, two expanded apprenticeship programs will get under way, delivering financial support for up to 3,650 extra apprentices.
The Construction Training Fund's Employers Grant Program will open up beyond the building site, allowing businesses like cabinet makers, manufacturers, and heating and cooling system producers to access up to $15,000 in financial support per apprentice.
It's expected the expansion will mean 650 extra employers can access CTF funding, supporting up to 3,500 apprentices.
In addition, a new Mature-Age Apprentice Subsidy program will support employers to employ older apprentices in the building and construction industry, with special consideration given to women and regional apprentices.
The program will provide up to $30,000 to eligible employers, with 150 places available around the State.
Scaling apprenticeships emerged as a key recommendation from the WA Workforce Strategy 2026-2030, released today.
The strategy lays out a clear plan to deliver the skilled workforce needed for Western Australia's diversifying economy, and builds on the government's record investment in skills and training.
The strategy was informed by extensive consultation, including six industry roundtables with more than 110 representatives from industry, employers, unions, training providers, Aboriginal organisations, government, and community sectors, and more than 60 written submissions.
As stated by Premier Roger Cook:
"Western Australia is at the forefront of major opportunities, from building more homes and infrastructure to growing our clean energy and defence industries.
"Realising these opportunities depends on having the skilled workforce to support them.
"After years of investment in rebuilding and strengthening our skills and training system, the WA Workforce Strategy 20262030 brings industry, government, and training providers together behind a shared plan for the future.
"The strategy sets out practical actions to grow workforce supply, scale apprenticeships and traineeships, and support workforce growth in regional Western Australia, where many of these opportunities are emerging.
"The decisions we make today about skills and training will help drive our economy and support communities across Western Australia for years to come."
As stated by Skills and TAFE Minister Amber-Jade Sanderson:
"Growing WA's skilled workforce is an investment in the future these are the people who will build our homes, staff our hospitals and deliver the energy transition.
"Our expanded apprenticeship package will mean more apprentices can access support, helping them to get on the tools and into a great career.
"Importantly, this package is focussed on getting under-represented groups into trades, including women, mature-age apprentices and people living in the regions.
"Our State has an ambitious pipeline of infrastructure, clean energy and defence projects, and I want Western Australian workers to benefit from these opportunities."
