Promise check: Provide funding for 2,500 apprenticeships in new energy industries per year

At the 2022 election, Labor promised to provide funding for 2,500 apprenticeships in new energy industries per year. Here's how that promise is tracking.

In a policy announced more than a year before the 2022 federal election, Labor promised to invest $100 million to support 10,000 apprentices in new energy industries.

According to a May 2021 press release, under the plan apprentices in such industries will receive $10,000 over the cycle of their apprenticeship.

"This incentive payment will encourage today's apprentices to take on the occupations that we need for the new energy economy," the press release states.

Examples of eligible industries include rooftop solar installation and maintenance, large-scale renewable projects including emerging green hydrogen, energy efficiency upgrades to homes and businesses, renewable manufacturing, and relevant agricultural activities.

A policy document gives more detail.

"Apprentices who choose to train in new energy industries will receive up to $10,000 — $2,000 on commencement, and $2,000 a year for up to four years afterwards, including on successful completion," the document states.

"This will help to increase apprentice uptake, boost retention and improve completions."

The apprenticeships will be available over four years, with 2,500 commencements a year from 2022-23.

Labor's pre-election policy costing document sets out $52 million for the program over the four years to 2025-26.

Assessing the promise

This promise will be considered delivered if Labor provides funding for 2,500 new energy apprenticeship commencements each financial year over the course of its term in government.

Here's how the promise is tracking:

19 May 2023

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Promise check: Provide funding for 2,500 apprenticeships in new energy industries per year