23/12/05
Education and Training Minister Ljiljanna Ravlich has today announced another major reform to Western Australia’s apprenticeship system so fully qualified workers can enter the workforce quicker.
“From next year, people starting apprenticeships in three key food areas will be able to complete their qualifications in three years,” Ms Ravlich said.
The apprenticeships are Baking (Combined Breadmaking and Pastry Cooking), Breadmaking, and Pastrycooking.
"With skills shortages in the food industry, it makes sense to allow people with the skills and ability to finish their training early and start earning a decent wage,” she said.
The Minister said this follows an announcement made in October to reduce apprenticeship times in some areas of the home building industry to three years, in addition to creating seven new two-year residential apprenticeships.
“There is no reason an apprenticeship has to be four years long. This reform of our apprenticeship is a major step forward for WA,” Ms Ravlich said.
“Industry wants these changes and is working with the Gallop Government to deliver them.”
Ms Ravlich said while apprentices might be completing their trade quicker, there would be no compromise when it comes to quality.
“All apprenticeship training will continue to meet national standards. We will continue to produce well skilled and competent workers,” she said.
The Minister said the Gallop Government was committed to reforming WA’s training system.
“Since coming to power in 2001, the Gallop Government has increased the number of trainees and apprentices by 60 per cent. This is compared with a national average of just 30 per cent,” Ms Ravlich said.
“We have just secured an additional $31million to create 14,000 extra training places in WA over the next three years.
“By investing in our training system and making it more flexible, we will ensure that WA continues to surge ahead of the nation in delivering highly skilled workers.”
The Gallop Government is committed to new jobs and better opportunities for all Western Australians.
Minister's office: 9213 6800
