How the Australian Government is addressing the electric vehicle mechanic skills shortage
The Federal Government has announced plans to help fund the training of apprentice mechanics who want to work on electric vehicles (EVs).
It is expanding the New Energy Apprenticeship Program, introducing incentives to encourage more people into sectors that are supporting Australia’s transition to clean energy.
From June 1, the program will be expanded to include apprentices working in electric vehicle maintenance.
Apprentices will receive up to $10,000 during their training, with the program currently covering 40 different occupations.
Minister for Skills and Training Brendan O’Connor said the Government was “constantly monitoring” the programs and “listening to industry” to understand their needs.
“We must do all we can to scale up efforts to tackle climate change, as well as address the severe skills shortages we face to rebuild,” he said. country”.
While the types of eligible apprentices have been expanded, the changes will also help support more people to upskill in sectors exposed to clean energy – including automotive – and removes the requirement that an apprentice’s work be solely dedicated to clean energy.
That means auto technicians in particular will be equipped to service electric vehicles, hybrid vehicles and traditional internal combustion engines in the future.
Australian Automobile Dealers Association chief executive James Voortman said the expansion of the program came at a “pivotal time for the industry”.
“The transition to electric vehicles offers huge opportunities for developing new skills in Australia and it is exciting to see this recognized and supported through programs such as the Internship Program,” he said. New energy”.
The Federal Chamber of Automotive Industry also welcomed the move by the Albanese Government.
FCAI CEO Tony Weber said: “These steps are important to support the integration of electric vehicles into the Australian market and will boost consumer confidence and other target sectors needed to support a strong and reliable transportation industry.”
