The number of new and continuing apprentices has dropped even further compared to the same quarter in 2023, according to Phil Cooksey, General Manager of Apprenticeships Are Us Ltd (ARU).
He attributes the decline to the growing appeal of high-paying, unskilled labour jobs, which are drawing young people away from trades they are genuinely passionate about.
Recent figures released by the National Centre for Vocational Education Research (NCVER), just ahead of the federal election, show a 17.4 per cent fall in trade apprenticeship commencements.
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The largest declines were in Construction Trade Workers (down 18.6 per cent) and Automotive and Engineering Trades Workers (down 18.0 per cent).
“The cost of living is so high right now that many young people are either abandoning their apprenticeships or choosing not to start one in the first place,” Mr Cooksey said.
“They’re being drawn to unskilled labour jobs that offer immediate financial relief, even if those roles are short-term or uninspiring.”
Mr Cooksey said the majority of current apprentices are unlicensed.
“As soon as they get their drivers license and start facing expenses like fuel, many start looking elsewhere for better-paying work — even if it’s less fulfilling.”
Mr Cooksey welcomed the Federal Government’s commitment to introduce 100,000 fee-free TAFE places from 2027, calling it a step in the right direction to address the national skills shortage in trades like mechanics, electricians, and carpenters.
“It’s a great initiative to help more young Australians enter the trades. But given the financial pressures young people face today, it’s just not enough,” he said.
“For example, a 20-year-old sees their phone bill or fuel costs rising, and suddenly, completing a qualification takes a back seat. One phone call to a mate, and they’re off to a construction site the next morning — apprenticeship forgotten. They still want to be mechanics or tradies, but paying their gym membership takes priority.”
Goals needed
Mr Cooksey also criticised the lack of realism in current policy settings.
“There’s not enough recognition of the world young Australians live in. Social media is filled with content glorifying the high wages of unskilled labourers. It’s hard to compete with that kind of instant gratification,” Mr Cooksey said.
“Young people are bombarded with TikTok reels of Gen Zs showing off expensive cars and toys, thanks to short-term jobs with big pay. The long-term value of a qualification and fulfilling career with high demand doesn’t hold the same appeal as earning such unbelievable money right now.”
Despite the challenges, Mr Cooksey was optimistic about the future of trade careers for those who persevere.
“We currently have 75 open job orders across the country — for exciting roles like light vehicle mechanics, carpenters, plumbers, and fabrication trades,” he said.
“For those who stick with it, the rewards are fantastic: recognised qualifications, hands-on experience, and access to high-demand, well-paying careers.”