New campaign targets jobs for 50 apprentices in 15 days
Friday, 9 October 2009 1:19PM
A race to find jobs for 50 apprentices in Cairns and the far north has started.
The 50 Apprentices in 15 Days campaign, spearheaded by Tropical North Queensland TAFE (TNQT) and Skills 360 Australia, will challenge regional businesses, both large and small, to take on a school-based apprentice over the next three working weeks.
Skills360 Australia CEO Troy Williams and TNQT Institute Director Jo Pyne have urged local employers to get behind the campaign.
"The 50 Apprentices in 15 Days campaign is all about businesses in Cairns and the far north making an investment in training and the next generation of skilled workers," Mr Williams said.
"We are encouraging businesses to look at their future workforce needs and consider taking on an apprentice to help meet those needs.
"There are also very generous subsidies available to business looking to take on an apprentice."
Ms Pyne said TAFE was proud to be a partner in the campaign.
"Tropical North Queensland TAFE is the largest provider of apprenticeship training in the far north and we are determined to see our school-based apprentices in jobs and helping to build the regional economy," she said.
"The national economy is growing again and the demand for skilled workers looks set to increase in coming months.
"Businesses that put on an apprentice now will be better equipped to take advantage of new opportunities on the horizon."
The 50 apprentices are undertaking electrical, automotive, construction, diesel fitting and metal fabrication training through the SchoolTech program.
SchoolTech provides Cairns Year 11 and 12 students with the opportunity to combine senior studies and vocational training, with graduates securing
TAFE qualifications and a Queensland Certificate of Education.
Business people who want to take on a school-based apprentice are encouraged to contact Skill360 Australia on 1300 933 358.
As a government-endorsed Group Training Organisation, Skill360 Australia helps businesses find the right apprentice, complete paperwork, meet compliance requirements and access government incentives.