Budget Boosts Trades and Apprenticeships

If you’ve been thinking about starting a trade, now’s the time. The Australian Government’s 2025–26 Federal Budget has reaffirmed its commitment to trades and vocational training, delivering billions in funding for apprenticeships, training places, and skills development programs.

With skills shortages continuing across construction, infrastructure, energy, and resources, this year’s budget focuses on building a future-ready workforce—and that means more opportunities for jobseekers, career changers, and school leavers alike.

What’s Driving the Push for Trade Skills?

Australia is facing growing demand for skilled workers in areas like electrical, plumbing, civil construction, renewable energy, and healthcare support. The rise of major national infrastructure projects, housing initiatives, and clean energy investment has increased the pressure on workforce supply.

According to Jobs and Skills Australia, occupations like electricians, construction workers, and engineers are listed on the national Skills Priority List—highlighting the urgent need for more qualified tradespeople.

Key Budget Measures for Trades and Training in 2025

1. National Skills Agreement Funding

The government is investing over $12.6 billion over five years through the National Skills Agreement (2024–2029) in partnership with states and territories. This includes support for:

• Fee-free TAFE and VET places in priority sectors
• Modernisation of training infrastructure
• Support for women in trades and regional learners

You can explore certified trade courses to see how you can get started or upskill in a high-demand industry.

2. Apprenticeship Reboot and Incentive Overhaul

As part of the new Apprenticeship Reboot initiative, over $1 billion is being allocated to streamline and strengthen support for apprentices and trainees. Key features include:

• New wage subsidies and completion bonuses for employers and apprentices
• Enhanced mentoring and pastoral care to improve retention and completion rates
• Support for priority apprenticeships aligned with the clean energy and construction sectors

3. Foundation Skills and Adult Learning

An additional $185 million will go toward improving adult literacy, numeracy and digital literacy through community-based and workplace training programs. This aims to boost the job readiness of Australians looking to return to work or shift careers.

Not sure where to begin? Check out our range of vocational and skills-based courses to find a practical pathway to employment.

Competency-Based Apprenticeships: Faster Paths to Qualification

New reforms support competency-based progression in apprenticeships—meaning if you can demonstrate the skills, you may finish your training sooner. This model offers:

• Faster completion for capable apprentices
• More flexible training delivery
• Recognition of prior learning and real-world experience

These changes will help mature-aged apprentices and skilled workers formalise their experience and qualify faster.

Making Trades More Inclusive and Accessible

To address equity in trades, the budget includes programs that:

• Encourage more women to pursue careers in male-dominated industries
• Support First Nations apprentices and trainees with wraparound support
• Expand opportunities in regional and remote areas through place-based training

Ready to Start Your Trade Career?

Whether you’re a school leaver, looking for a hands-on career change, or upskilling for the clean energy boom, now is the time to take action. Use these resources to explore your next step:

• Apprenticeship and traineeship course options
• TAFE and Certificate III–IV courses in trades, construction, and more
• Renewable energy training pathways to align with Australia’s green economy shift

Your trade career can start today—with more government support than ever before.