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Action needed on auto apprentices shortage: ARU

More practical support is needed to stop auto apprentices from dropping out due to cost pressures.

This is according to Apprenticeships Are Us Ltd (ARU) Managing Director Michael Wentworth, who said instability from the cost of living crisis is affecting an already struggling shortage of apprentices.

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“We are at a critical juncture,” he said.

“The prolonged recession is placing immense strain on automotive workshops nationwide, forcing them to make tough decisions about staffing, including apprentices.

“With customers tightening their budgets and spending less on vehicle maintenance, workshops are under significant pressure to retain staff amid declining sales.”

Solutions needed

With a Federal Election on the cards for 2025, Wentworth said it was important for political parties to consider solutions to secure a strong pipeline of auto apprentices.

While the Federal Government has promised $10,000 to trade apprentices to strengthen the housing industry, mechanics have yet to receive any similar election cash splash.

“The escalating cost of living is driving young people away from the automotive field,” he said.

“Many feel the need to contribute to their families’ finances amidst rising household expenses, or they struggle to build their own lives in such challenging economic conditions.

“Additionally, with overall disposable income declining, there is less spending on vehicle maintenance, which further hampers workshops’ ability to train new apprentices.”

There are figures to back this urgency as well, with Wentworth pointing to a number of surveys indicating that businesses – including workshops – are struggling.

“Global human resources platform Deel, has also shared recent survey results, showing about 41 per cent of respondents to the survey indicated that they plan to shed jobs, while 45 per cent flagged wage cuts,” he said.

Find out how Apprenticeships Are Us can help you or your workshop! Visit aaprus.com.au or contact 9821 6900 and info@apprus.com.au for more information

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