New report finds most apprentices plan to stay in traineeship
National research shows most apprentices intend to finish their training and employers are largely retaining them. However, wellbeing issues and uneven workplace support remain risks to completion rates.
Are most apprentices actually finishing their training — and what's putting them at risk of dropping out?
Affects builders, electricians, plumbers and all trade employers. Retention and support practices directly impact whether apprentices finish — shaping future workforce supply.
Key takeaways
- Most apprentices and trainees nationally plan to stay and complete their training.
- Employers are generally doing well at retaining apprentices, the research found.
- Wellbeing challenges remain a key risk factor for apprentices not completing.
- Inconsistent workplace support could be the deciding factor in whether trainees finish.
Related
HIA warns tradie shortage is holding back housing delivery
HIA report warns that a skilled trades shortage is blocking housing delivery across Australia. Without more tradespeople, housing targets cannot be met.
Why it matters: Affects builders, plumbers, electricians and carpenters directly. Ongoing labour shortages mean more work but also project delays and pressure on existing crews.
HIA warns tradie shortage is holding back housing delivery
The HIA warns that a skilled tradie shortage is a key barrier to fixing Australia's housing crisis. Without more tradespeople, housing delivery targets cannot be met.
Why it matters: Affects builders, plumbers, electricians and carpenters. Ongoing labour shortages may mean more work but also project delays and pressure to take on more than capacity allows.
WA needs more tradies to build the homes we need
WA faces a skilled trades shortage as housing construction competes with infrastructure, energy, and emerging industries for workers. The battle for tradies will determine how many homes can be built.
Why it matters: Affects builders, plumbers, electricians and carpenters in WA. Increased demand may lift wages and workload but labour shortages could delay projects and squeeze subcontractor availability.