Graduating HSC students are urged to consider how apprenticeships and traineeships could be the stepping stone to a successful and secure future.

With the release of HSC results today, Apprenticeship Support Australia (ASA) Executive Director Peter Gilchrist said apprenticeships and traineeships offer a hands-on alternative to university that allows young people the option to earn while they learn.

“Apprenticeship and Traineeship qualifications are in high demand across the country with a national skill shortage as high as 50% for some trades.” Mr Gilchrist said.

“Skilled workers in construction, manufacturing, clean energy and community support are in shortage nationally and the demand for these skills will only grow.”

“The Australian Government Jobs and Skills Report 2024 found that the median income in the base year and two years after commencing an occupation was higher for those with an apprenticeship pathway than those with a non-apprenticeship pathway.”

“A successful apprenticeship or traineeship leads to a secure future with strong job prospects,” Mr Gilchrist said.

“Recent data supports this, with 95.6% of trade apprentices and trainees in 2023 employed after their education.”

“Once an apprenticeship or traineeship is completed young people are often offered a permanent position with a well-defined career path, competitive income and may even be prepared to start a business of their own, boosting local economies.”

Northern Beaches plumbing apprentice, Maya Harris, encourages other young people to consider their post-school options, “It’s a good thing to go into if you are someone who likes to be physical and not sitting in an office –- you don’t have to go to university if you are not sure, an apprenticeship is a good option.”

“I am proud to be playing my part in breaking the gender bias around women in trades and showing people women can do it.” Ms Harris said.

For school leavers who aren’t sure about what they want to do, ASA recommends they visit skillsroad.com.au and complete the free Career Quiz and Job Fit test to learn about their skill set and which careers may suit them.