- The Crisafulli Government is delivering 79 new QBuild apprentices, a 46 per cent increase on last year and the largest intake since 2002.
- Apprentices will help deliver and maintain the schools, social housing, police stations and public infrastructure Queenslanders need.
- During a decade of decline under Labor, Queensland developed a skills shortage and productivity stalled.
- The Crisafulli Government is delivering more places for Queenslanders to call home and a better lifestyle through a stronger economy.
The Crisafulli Government is getting Queensland building again, welcoming the largest intake of QBuild apprentices in almost 25 years.
A 46% increase on last year's intake, 79 new apprentices have joined QBuild showing the Crisafulli Government's focus on backing apprentices who will help deliver and maintain the homes, infrastructure and public facilities our growing State needs.
After a decade of decline under Labor which saw a skills shortage and our State fall behind on delivering the homes and infrastructure it needed, the Crisafulli Government is turning that around and restoring QBuild's capacity to deliver for Queenslanders.
Selected from almost 2,000 applicants the new apprentices will train as carpenters, electricians, painters, plumbers, refrigeration mechanics and cabinet makers.
Based at QBuild depots from St George to the Gold Coast, Longreach to Palm Island and Thursday Island ensures these apprenticeships, skills, jobs and delivery are reaching communities across the state.
Minister for Housing and Public Works Sam O'Connor said the apprentices would play a practical role in delivering QBuild's building, maintenance and disaster recovery program.
"These apprentices are joining QBuild exactly when our state needs more tradies to deliver the projects Queenslanders need," Mr O'Connor said.
"After years of stalled delivery and a statewide skills shortage under the former Labor Government, we are adding more apprentices than ever to get Queensland building again.
"QBuild is central to delivering and maintaining our social homes, schools and police stations, and responding quickly when disasters strike to help communities get back on their feet."
"What these apprentices will work on over the coming years will help shape our state, and that's something our new apprentices should be proud of."
New apprentice Elizabeth Bennett said it was a privilege to join QBuild.
"I'm energised by the opportunity to join a team with such a strong reputation for service and craftsmanship.
"This marks an exciting new chapter, and I'm determined to learn as much as I can while contributing positively to work sites and the Queensland community," Ms Bennett said.
"I'm excited to work on projects that truly impact Queenslanders' daily lives, from maintaining essential infrastructure to supporting social housing and rebuilding after natural disasters.
"Playing even a small part in strengthening and supporting our communities feels incredibly meaningful."
