Australia’s infrastructure sector could benefit from a fresh pipeline of skilled workers under a proposed expansion of Australian Technical Colleges, according to Master Builders Australia.
The industry group has welcomed the Coalition’s election promise to establish a new national network of technical colleges for students in Years 10 to 12.
The specialist schools would combine school-based apprenticeships and traineeships with academic and business subjects, leading to a Year 12 certificate.
Master Builders Australia CEO Denita Wawn said the initiative would help address ongoing labour shortages in the building and construction sector – shortages that continue to stall progress on critical housing and infrastructure delivery.
“Technical colleges play an important part of the skills education mix,” Wawn said.
“They support students in learning the necessary skills to start a career in building and construction, while not giving up the opportunity to attain the high school certificate.”
With more than 500,000 new workers needed over the next five years, the sector is urging a shift in perceptions that favour university over vocational education.
Wawn also called for complementary measures, including free VET, to ensure a balanced and effective approach to skills development.
“Fixing the housing crisis starts with people,” she said.
“Every extra apprentice gets us closer to meeting our workforce and housing goals.”
