IntoWork parliamentary forum backs apprenticeships as workforce priority

IntoWork Australia, in partnership with Speaker of the House, the Hon Milton Dick MP, hosted the Australian Apprenticeships and Employment Industry Forum at Parliament House on Tuesday, bringing together MPs, committee representatives, employers, union leaders and apprentices to focus on the future of Australia’s workforce.

Held in the Speaker’s Courtyard, the forum examined how apprenticeships, traineeships and integrated employment pathways can address national workforce shortages, strengthen productivity and respond to rapid industry transformation.

Key themes included apprenticeships as workforce reform levers, global developments in degree‑based apprenticeships, and the integration of AI capability across training, employment and care systems.

IntoWork Group CEO Poul Bottern said apprenticeships should be treated as national workforce infrastructure.

“Australia can’t meet its productivity and capability goals without robust, modern apprenticeship pathways,” Mr Bottern said. “When training, employment and wrap‑around supports are connected, young people move faster, employers get the skills they need sooner, and the whole system performs better.”

He added: “Degree‑based apprenticeship models overseas show how paid work, accredited learning and mentoring can run in parallel — and with practical AI skills embedded, we can lift safety, quality and productivity on the job.”

The forum showcased apprentice success stories, including Jomarra Finch, Construction Skills Queensland 2024 Tradie of the Year and former Australian Trade College North Brisbane (ATCNB) student, now working in industrial, high‑voltage electrical.

At just 13, Jomarra walked into ATCNB and enrolled herself in an electrical program. Ten years later, her determination and talent saw her become one of Queensland’s most celebrated young tradespeople.

“I doubted myself for a really long time… the award helped settle the imposter syndrome and reaffirm that I’m doing a good job,” Jomarra said.

Her career has rapidly progressed from school‑based apprentice to qualified industrial electrician and mentor. She has seen firsthand the growing confidence of young women entering the trades: “In 2019, I was the only girl in my grade doing a trade. Now, seeing so many girls coming through is incredible.”

Mr Bottern noted: “Jomarra’s path from school‑based apprentice to high‑voltage electrician and mentor shows exactly what happens when the right supports are in place.”

The Forum brought together leaders across government, industry and community to share opportunities, discuss challenges and strengthen collaboration across the national employment and training systems.

IntoWork Australia will continue working closely with Ministers, government agencies, employers and training organisations to ensure apprenticeship pathways remain accessible, responsive and fit‑for‑future.