Queensland Apprenticeship Boom Signals Turnaround in State Skills Shortage

Construction apprenticeship numbers are climbing across Queensland as the Crisafulli Government ramps up efforts to tackle the State's long-running skills shortage and strengthen the future workforce.

New figures show a sharp increase in apprenticeship commencements and a record number of completions, with thousands of Queenslanders entering or finishing training in key industries including construction, electrical trades and utilities.

The Queensland Government says the results demonstrate early progress in addressing workforce shortages that developed over the previous decade, which at their peak were estimated to leave Queensland short by around 50,000 skilled workers.

According to the latest data, the shortfall has already eased by about 15,000 workers, while apprenticeship growth continues to accelerate.

Construction apprenticeship commencements rose by 5.4 per cent in the first calendar year of the Crisafulli Government compared with the previous year. So far this financial year, 10,381 apprentices have started training across Queensland, including almost 3,000 in the construction sector - a 27.4 per cent increase.

Utilities apprenticeships have also grown strongly, with 2,136 commencements recorded and electrical apprenticeships increasing by 15.7 per cent.

At the same time, Queensland recorded its highest-ever number of apprentice completions in 2025, with almost 13,000 newly qualified workers set to enter the labour market.

The Government says initiatives aimed at encouraging more young people into trades are helping build a stronger pipeline of skilled workers to support major infrastructure, housing and health projects across the State.

Among those initiatives is the new Career Taster program, delivered free through TAFE Queensland, which gives Year 10 students hands-on experience in priority industries such as construction and healthcare.

The Government said post-pandemic stimulus measures helped drive increased apprenticeship uptake in recent years, while new State measures - including wage subsidies for small businesses - are supporting apprentices to complete their training.

Minister for Finance, Trade, Employment and Training Ros Bates said the figures showed encouraging progress, although more work remained to address workforce pressures.

"Queensland is beginning to see positive signs in rebuilding the skilled workforce needed to deliver major infrastructure and housing projects across the State," Minister Bates said.

"We are focused on creating pathways into trades, supporting apprentices through training, and ensuring industries have the workers needed for the future.

"From Olympic infrastructure to health projects and new housing, these apprentices will play a critical role in building Queensland's future."

The Career Taster program is jointly funded by the Queensland and Australian governments and is designed to help students transition successfully into training and employment pathways.