A COMMITMENT from the Liberal-National Coilition could see more opportunity for kids to get into Tech colleges in regional Victoria.
The plan Is to expand practical training and help local businesses take on apprentices by also backing more apprentice support.
It will look to establish 10 new Technical Colleges across Victoria, providing hands-on training for up to 5000 students in years 10 to 12.
Member for Euroa Annabelle Cleeland said that kids shouldn’t have to travel far to build a career.
“I want our kids to be able to build a career right here at home, not feel they have to leave to find work,” Cleeland said.
“That starts with training that leads to real jobs with local employers.”
The coalition would also establish a $115 million accelerating apprenticeships Fund covering half of eligible off-the-job training costs for apprentices in priority occupations.
Ms Cleeland said local businesses such as Marshall Cabinets in Tallarook understood the importance of investing in the next generation, with owner Mick taking on an apprentice every year for the past decade.
“Mick has made a real commitment to training young people, taking on an apprentice every year for the past 10 years,” Ms Cleeland said.
“For a small business like Marshall Cabinets, help with training costs would make a real difference and support employers who are willing to invest in young people.
“We need more local businesses to have the confidence to take on apprentices, and we need to make sure those apprentices can access the training they need without unnecessary barriers.”
The 10 Technical Colleges would cost $222 million over eight years, while the Accelerating Apprenticeships Fund would cost $115 million. Both commitments would be funded through the Liberals and Nationals’ savings program.
