NECA Welcomes Workforce Investment and Support for Group Training Organisations

The National Electrical and Communications Association (NECA) has welcomed the Cook Government’s $37.5 million Budget investment aimed at building the Western Australian construction workforce, including a specific $25.2m for a Group Training Organisation (GTO) Wage Subsidy Program. The program provides funding for 225 apprentices and trainees, 150 places at 75% subsidy, and 75 places at 100% subsidy across the state.  

Mr Oliver Judd, CEO of NECA, praised the WA Government for recognising the vital role that GTOs play in addressing workforce shortages and delivering high-quality, industry-led training outcomes across the electrotechnology sector.

“This announcement demonstrates the Cook Government’s genuine commitment to strengthening Western Australia’s skilled workforce and directly responds to the real-world needs of industry,” Mr Judd said. “NECA has long advocated for greater support for Group Training Organisations, which remain one of the most effective vehicles to train, mentor and support apprentices, particularly in the electrical and communications trades.”

“The government’s targeted investment acknowledges the central role that industry-led training and employer partnerships play in delivering job-ready apprentices who meet the technical and safety standards required in complex sectors like ours. This Budget measure directly aligns with NECA’s longstanding policy priorities, and we commend Skills and TAFE Minister Amber-Jade Sanderson and the Cook Government for their continued collaboration with industry to deliver practical solutions.”

NECA stands ready to continue working closely with the WA Government to support this programs implementation and ensure industry training remains fit-for-purpose, efficient, and responsive to emerging industry needs.