Government initiative to increase apprenticeships in Australia will help the hard-hit auto industry, says FCAI.
AutoDaily Media Alert
The Federal Chamber of Automotive Industries (FCAI) has welcomed the Federal Government’s announcement of a boost to Australian apprenticeships positions.
The scheme, announced on October 5 2020, includes an investment of $1.2 billion to employ 100,000 new apprentices and trainees and is part of the Federal Government’s COVID-19 economic recovery plan.
Tony Weber, chief executive of the FCAI says the automotive industry, which employs over 65,000 people in Australia, supports the Government’s initiative. The intiative will help fll positions for new expertise in fiels such as electrification, says Weber.
“In the automotive industry, training is particularly important given the advent of highly sophisticated emerging technologies, such as the electrification of fleets and connected and autonomous vehicles,” he says.
“So, it is critical our technicians are highly qualified to ensure the safety of themselves and their customers.
“In addition, attracting, developing, mentoring, and retaining new talent through robust entry-level programs is a huge factor in ensuring industry and business thrives and prospers.
“Apprenticeships and training allowing specific learning outcomes is a key factor for the automotive industry’s commitment to Australia.
Weber touts Australia’s relatively large dealer network although apprenticeships will also include uptake in authorised workshop and other in other auto-related industries such as engineering.
“Automotive networks include more than 4000 dealerships in rural and urban regions right across Australia. These dealerships provide important developmental opportunities in a number of career paths for young people within their local communities.
“Automotive manufacturers themselves also provide further learning and training opportunities by providing trainee and intern positions within their Australian operations.
“In the context of the COVID-19 pandemic and its economic implications, the commitment of Federal Government funds to support an extra 100,000 apprenticeship positions is a welcome boost to industry.”