Assistant Minister for Vocational Education and Skills Karen Andrews is encouraging former members of the Australian Defence Force (ADF) to consider taking up an apprenticeship as they transition into civilian life.
Speaking at the Australian Defence Force Skills and Apprenticeships Forum hosted by TAFE Directors Australia at Parliament House today, Minister Andrews said skills developed in the ADF could easily be transferred into higher level skills and training.
“Australian Apprenticeships offer enormous opportunities for people who want to retrain into a different career,” Minister Andrews said.
“Employment outcomes for trade apprentices are strong, with over 90 per cent of graduates employed when they finish their training.
“The flexibility of the VET system also allows for recognition of prior learning and mid-career entry to apprenticeships.”
Minister Andrews said the type of skills and characteristics developed during a career in the ADF were highly sought after by employers seeking apprentices or trained employees, including in the defence industry.
“For an employer, a former ADF member comes work-ready as a worker with a mature, positive attitude, who is reliable and committed with a proven work ethic,” Minister Andrews said.
Minister Andrews said 2016 Western Australian Apprentice of the Year, Brendan Carlson, who spoke at the forum, was living proof of the opportunities on offer to former Australian Defence Force members.
“Brendan has retrained successfully as an electrician and is now inspiring other Australians to take up a trade in his role as an Australian Apprenticeship Ambassador,” Minister Andrews said.
Minister Andrews said the Australian Government funded Apprenticeships Support Network was a great resource for ex-ADF personnel interested in transitioning into a career beginning with an apprenticeship or traineeship.
“Pre-commencement services embrace screening, testing and job-matching as well as mentoring, to help apprentices choose the right path and stay on that path,” Minister Andrews said.
