The proposal would establish the Advanced Entry Trades Training program to help 6,000 experienced but unqualified workers fast track their qualifications.

The program would assess a participants’ existing skills via a recognition of prior learning process and then fill in any gaps with individualised training delivered by TAFEs and other high quality Registered Training Organisations. Any extra training needed will be free.

The program is based on the New South Wales (NSW) Government Trade Pathways for Experienced Workers program, which has seen more than 1,200 students gain their trade qualification in an average time of 7 months.

The operations of the program, including relevant occupations for inclusion, would be based on local labour market needs, which will be worked through with states and territories.

The program would be non-ongoing over 3 years and start on 1 January 2026.