South Australia has experienced a notable rise in apprenticeship and traineeship commencements, outpacing the national trend. According to the National Centre for Vocational Education and Research (NCVER), 9,225 individuals began these programs in the 12 months leading up to March 2025, marking a 5% increase from the previous year. This growth contrasts with a 7% decline observed nationally during the same period.
The state’s emphasis on trades and priority sectors is evident, with over half of the new commencements in fields such as construction, electrotechnology, and early childhood education. Specifically, construction trades saw an 18.4% increase, while electrotechnology and telecommunications roles grew by 12.2%. Additionally, the Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care experienced a 52.2% surge in commencements, reflecting the state’s investment in early education.
As of 31 March 2025, South Australia had 23,305 apprentices and trainees in training, with 16,265 engaged in priority areas. This represents a 2.8% year-on-year increase, highlighting the state’s commitment to developing a skilled workforce aligned with its economic needs.
The completion rate also showed positive trends, with 5,800 individuals finishing their apprenticeships or traineeships in the past year. Notably, trade completions rose by 4.1%, and those in priority areas increased by 10.9%. Furthermore, cancellations and withdrawals decreased by 21.3%, indicating improved retention and satisfaction among participants.
Minister for Education, Training and Skills, Blair Boyer, attributed this growth to targeted investments in key sectors, including construction, defence, clean energy, and early childhood education. He emphasised the importance of a skilled workforce to support major infrastructure projects and the state’s economic development.
Cameron Baker, the SA Skills Commissioner, expressed encouragement over the growth in apprenticeships for essential trades, noting their role in delivering the housing and public infrastructure the state requires.
The Master Builders Association of SA’s ‘Born to Build’ initiative has also contributed to this success by promoting careers in construction and supporting individuals through their apprenticeship journey. CEO Will Frogley highlighted the program’s effectiveness in placing over 160 South Australians into apprenticeships this year alone.
While South Australia leads the nation in apprenticeship growth, experts caution that ongoing efforts are necessary to maintain and build upon this momentum. Addressing challenges such as attracting new apprentices and retaining them throughout their training will be crucial to sustaining the state’s position as a leader in vocational education and training.
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