New quarterly data released today by the National Centre for Vocational Education Research (NCVER) shows trade apprenticeship commencements increased by almost 18% in the quarter to September 2025, compared with the same quarter in 2024.
The rise represents around 2,400 additional people beginning trade apprenticeships, with strong growth in several high-demand, construction-related occupations. Commencements for Bricklayers, and Carpenters and Joiners increased by more than 40%, Plumbers by over 25%, and Electricians by almost 15%. The quarterly increase follows the introduction of the Federal Government’s Key Apprenticeship Program on 1 July 2025.
The Apprentices and trainees 2025: September quarter report also shows trade contract completions increased by almost 12% in the 12 months to September 2025. Across key construction trades, thousands more apprentices completed their training during the year. The most notable were Bricklayers, and Carpenters and Joiners contributing 9,050 completions (an increase of just over 23%), Plumbers with 4,900 completions (a rise of just under 18%) and Electricians with 9,485 new completions (an increase of just under 40%).
While these results point to positive momentum in trades training, they follow a broader decline that has been underway for several years.
Trade apprenticeship commencements are down almost 10% in the 12 months to September 2025, while non-trade commencements are down just over 18%.
When comparing the September 2025 quarter to the same quarter in 2024, the number of apprenticeship contracts in-training overall declined by just over 10%, with trades down almost 7% and non-trades down just under 19%.
NCVER Managing Director John King said the latest figures show both encouraging signs and ongoing pressures in the apprenticeship system.
‘The September quarter’s lift in trade commencements and completions is welcome news, particularly for the construction industry where many employers report skills shortages,’ Mr King said.
‘It represents thousands more people starting and finishing apprenticeships in trades such as carpentry, plumbing and electrical work, occupations that are central to building homes, maintaining infrastructure and supporting Australia’s energy systems.
‘At the same time, the longer-term trend shows commencements remain lower over the past year and the total number of apprentices in training has declined.
‘The ongoing challenge is strengthening Australia’s apprenticeship pipeline – supporting more people to start apprenticeships, progress through their training, and complete qualifications in high demand occupations.’
Background:
Apprentices and trainees 2025: September quarter provides a national picture of apprenticeship and traineeship activity, including both quarterly and annual contract of training figures that can be broken down by state and territory.
‘In-training’ refers to apprenticeship and traineeship contracts that are still active, meaning they have not been completed, cancelled, withdrawn, or expired without meeting all prescribed program requirements.
Download the report: Apprentices and trainees 2025: September quarter
Enquiries: Elise Stone P: +61 8 8230 8443 E: communications@ncver.edu.au
About NCVER: we are the main provider of research, statistics and data on Australia’s VET sector. Our services help promote better understanding of VET and assist policy makers, practitioners, industry, training providers, and students to make informed decisions.
This work has been produced by NCVER on behalf of the Australian Government and state and territory governments, with funding provided through the Australian Government Department of Employment and Workplace Relations.