The latest release of apprentice and trainee data show there were 295 300 people undertaking an apprenticeship or traineeship at the end of September 2015, a decrease of 13.7% compared with the same time in 2014.
The data, published by the National Centre for Vocational Education Research (NCVER), provides a picture of apprenticeship and traineeship activity nationally and by state and territory.
Comparing the September 2015 quarter national data with the same period in 2014:
- commencements decreased by 19.3% to 36 000
- completions overall decreased by 6.0% to 27 600, although trade completions increased by 18.1% to 11 800
- cancellations and withdrawals decreased by 10.7% to 24 000.
“There are a number of reasons that may have contributed to the decline in commencement and in-training numbers”, said Dr Mette Creaser, National Manager, Statistics and Analytics.
“Previous NCVER research has shown that a subdued labour market and the uncapping of university places have an impact on the number of people entering into apprenticeships and traineeships”.
Copies of Australian vocational education and training statistics: Apprentices and trainees 2015, September quarter are available from www.ncver.edu.au/publications/2857.html
This work has been produced by NCVER on behalf of the Australian Government and state and territory governments, with funding provided through the Department of Education and Training.
NCVER is the national custodian of data about Australia’s VET system, including apprentice and trainee data. It is a not-for-profit, independent company owned by the Commonwealth, state and territory Ministers responsible for training.
NCVER has published a wide range of research on apprenticeships and traineeships, including:
- The impact of increasing university participation on the pool of apprentices
- Apprenticeships and traineeships in the downturn
- Understanding the non-completion of apprentices
Media enquiries:
Anna Payton, Media and Communications Officer
P +61 8 8230 8638 or 0413 606 134