Free ECEC apprenticeships for under 21s on offer in Mackay

The Queensland Government announced yesterday that a number of apprenticeships in  industries and sectors showing a high demand for workers, including early childhood education and care (ECEC) 

Available to “anyone under 21”, the $32 million investment was outlined by Queensland Minister for Training and Skills Development Shannon Fentiman, who visited the Mackay Christian College to talk to students about the opportunities on offer.

It is estimated that 60,000 young people will be able to gain a qualification and move to employment as a result of the initiative, which removes the cost of training from employers, Ms Fentiman said.

“Right now, businesses bear the cost for training an apprentice, we will be removing this expense to support businesses to be able to take on more apprentices and trainees.”

Through the changes, Ms Fentiman hopes that local businesses will be able to take on more apprentices and trainees, which in turn will support the businesses themselves to grow. 

Member for Mackay Julieanne Gilbert said there are 139 qualifications on offer for free through the initiative, with the Diploma of Children’s Services available for those wishing to join the ECEC sector. 

“We need to plan for the future of Queensland and ensure we have the skilled workers in Mackay that we need now and into the future,” Mrs Gilbert said.

“Free apprenticeships is an extension of the hugely successful free tafe for year 12 graduates initiative and is open to anyone under 21 regardless of graduating year 12 or not.”

Free apprenticeships are offered in sectors and industries showing a high demand for workers including:

• Early childhood

• Electrical

• Plumbing

• Engineering

• Healthcare

• Hospitality

For the list of free apprenticeships, please see here.