Group Training Australia (GTA), the single largest network employing over 40,000 apprentices and trainees, today welcomed an announcement by the Council of Australian Governments (COAG) to encourage unemployed young people to engage in training, and provide guaranteed education and training places to those under 25 years of age.
GTA Chief Executive Officer Jim Barron said the Compact with Young People, an initiative that includes encouraging unemployed 17 to 20 year olds who have not completed Year 12 to engage in training, is a significant step toward the next generation of skilled people.
"This announcement signifies critical acknowledgement of the importance of training to the future employment and wellbeing of our young people.
"Providing guaranteed and compulsory training positions for unemployed youth will enable them to gain the skills they need to be ready to take up jobs when the economy recovers.
"With such a large number of young people entering the training market, it is important that the scheme is adequately funded to ensure that the training received is of the highest quality.
"As the single largest employer network of apprentices and trainees, GTA looks forward to playing its part in ensuring those engaging in training can work towards an apprenticeship or traineeship that will create employment opportunities for the long-term".
Group Training Australia also welcomed recognition by COAG of the vulnerability of apprentices and trainees in the current economic climate, and the creation of a taskforce to support the engagement and retention of apprentices. GTA looks forward to being involved in work of the taskforce.
Media Release - Group Training Australia 1st May 2009
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