Redlands Coast Chamber of Commerce
SMALL and family-owned construction businesses across Queensland are set to benefit from a major new government initiative aimed at addressing the ongoing skills shortage in the industry.
The State Government has announced a $19 million Small Business Apprenticeship Pilot Program, delivering on a key election promise to strengthen Queensland’s workforce and help small construction firms train and retain apprentices.
The joint announcement was made by Minister for Finance, Trade, Employment and Training Ros Bates and Minister for Customer Services and Open Data and Minister for Small and Family Business Steve Minnikin.
Under the pilot, wage subsidies will be available for 2000 construction apprentices employed by small and family-owned businesses.
The initiative aims to ease financial pressures on employers during off-site training periods and ensure a steady pipeline of skilled workers to support Queensland’s construction sector.
“This program is part of the fresh start we promised – to end the skills shortage and secure a better future for Queensland’s construction industry,” Ms Bates said.
Eligible businesses can receive:
- 50 per cent wage subsidy for first- and second-year apprentices, and
- 25 per cent subsidy for third and fourth-year apprentices during up to eight weeks of annual training.
Over four years, apprentices under 21 may be eligible for total subsidy payments of $10,060, while those aged 21 and over could receive up to $13,740.
The program applies to apprentices commencing from July 1, 2025.
Businesses can register once an apprentice completes their probation period, with subsidies available upon enrolment and attendance at training.
Mr Minnikin said the program reflected the Government’s commitment to supporting small businesses that form the backbone of Queensland’s economy.
“Small and family businesses are the heart of our construction industry. This initiative helps them take on apprentices with confidence, knowing the government is helping shoulder the cost of training,” he said.
Local chambers are encouraging interested businesses to reach out for more information.
If any businesses are keen to learn more, please contact your local Chamber of Commerce they can help direct your questions to the department for clarification and support.
This is fantastic news for the Redlands and Bayside and a welcome outcome for everyone who has been advocating for this across Queensland.
The Regional Jobs Committee and local stakeholders have strongly supported this direction for some time, and it’s great to see the pilot moving ahead.
