New data released today by the Ïã¸ÛÁùºÏ²Ê¿ª½±¼Ç¼ (Ïã¸ÛÁùºÏ²Ê¿ª½±¼Ç¼) reveals there were fewer apprentices and trainees in-training and commencing training in the September quarter 2024; however, trade qualification completions increased.
The Apprentices and Trainees 2024: September quarter report shows that the total number of apprentices and trainees in-training fell by 7.8% when compared with the same quarter in 2023. Trade apprenticeships had a modest decline of 1.9% to 232 610, while non-trade apprenticeships had a more substantial decline of 18.9% to 101 120.
Figure 1 Apprentice and trainee contracts in-training as at 30 September by trade status, 2017-24 ('000)
Apprenticeship commencements also declined in the September quarter 2024 when compared with the same quarter in 2023. Trade commencements fell by 17.4%, driven by a decline in Construction Trade Workers (down by 18.6%) and Automotive and Engineering Trades Workers (down by 18.0%). Non-trade commencements declined by 24.7%, driven by a fall in Community and Personal Service Workers (down by 19.3%).
Ïã¸ÛÁùºÏ²Ê¿ª½±¼Ç¼ Managing Director John King said, ‘The decline in in-training and commencement numbers came amid challenging economic conditions, a resilient but softening labour market, and adjustments to employer incentive arrangements.
‘This quarter saw a reduction in the number of apprentices and trainees commencing training and in-training in both trade and non-trade occupations.
‘Despite the decline, the number of trade apprenticeships in-training remains above pre-COVID levels, as does the number of trade commencements over the twelve months to September period,’ said Mr King.
Figure 2 Apprentice and trainee contract commencements 12 months ending 30 September by trade status, 2017-24 (‘000)
While commencements have declined, completions have increased in key sectors. Trade completions rose by 7.1%, and growth was particularly strong amongst Automotive and Engineering Trades Workers (up by 19.8%) and Construction Trades Workers (up by 18.6%).
Mr King said, ‘The increase in trade completions is encouraging, particularly amongst automotive and construction occupations where skilled workers are in high demand. These apprentices will provide essential expertise in industries that are critical to Australia’s economy’.
In contrast, non-trade completions declined by 14.7%, largely due to a drop in Clerical and Administrative Workers (down by 39.3%). This decline was partially offset by a growth in Community and Personal Service Workers, including Child Carers, where demand remains strong.
Background:
Apprentices and trainees 2024: September quarter provides a national picture of apprenticeship and traineeship activity, including both quarterly and annual figures that can be broken down by state and territory.
In-training refers to apprenticeship and traineeship contracts that are still active, meaning they have not been completed, cancelled, withdrawn, or expired without meeting all prescribed program requirements.
Information on issues affecting the Australian labour market are outlined in Jobs and Skills Australia’s .
Download the report: Apprentices and trainees 2024: September quarter
Enquiries: Chantal Deutrom P: +61 8 8230 8418 E: chantaldeutrom@ncver.edu.au
About Ïã¸ÛÁùºÏ²Ê¿ª½±¼Ç¼: we are the main provider of research, statistics and data on Australia’s VET sector. Our services help promote better understanding of VET and assist policy makers, practitioners, industry, training providers, and students to make informed decisions.
This work has been produced by Ïã¸ÛÁùºÏ²Ê¿ª½±¼Ç¼ on behalf of the Australian Government and state and territory governments, with funding provided through the Australian Government .