$37 million to boost VET completion rates in South Australia

Delivered under the National Skills Agreement, the plan aims to strengthen South Australia’s workforce by improving completion rates and ensuring students receive the support they need to succeed in industries critical to the state’s future, including care, construction, clean energy and advanced manufacturing.

Currently, less than half of all VET courses are completed, leaving many students without full qualifications and industries struggling with skill shortages. The new measures will expand support services and introduce targeted strategies to address these challenges.

Key initiatives

• Expanded student support services: Mental health and financial assistance will grow from supporting 1,000 students to more than 3,000.
• Peer support for apprentices: Mentoring programs will help apprentices stay on track and complete their training.
• Industry-focused programs: New initiatives will target priority sectors such as construction, advanced manufacturing, and clean energy.
• Regional and first nations strategies: Local approaches will tackle challenges in regional areas, working alongside First Nations organisations.
• VET Student Advisory Network: A platform for learners to share experiences and influence improvements.
• TAFE SA’s Completions Strategy: Expanded efforts to improve retention and success rates.
• Program Evaluation: Successful initiatives will be scaled up based on evidence.

TAFE SA will also expand its Apprentice Liaison Officer (ALO) model, providing targeted case management to review training progress, customise plans, and address barriers to completion.

Federal Minister for Skills and Training Andrew Giles said: “The Albanese Government is opening doors so every Australian can train and gain the skills they need for their future. Some students need extra assistance to finish their training, which is why we’re teaming up with the Malinauskas Government to deliver stronger support for VET students right across SA. We’re ensuring no one is left behind by targeting support where it matters most, so every South Australian can step into the jobs their local communities need.”

South Australian Minister for Education, Training and Skills Blair Boyer said: “Currently less than half of all courses are finished, and that’s too many students missing out on the benefits of being fully qualified, and too many industries that are suffering from skill shortages.

“Lifting the completion rate is a piece of work I am proud to have led nationally to better understand factors affecting completion rates and investing in programs to better support apprentices and trainees finish their courses – and this extra funding is a direct result of that work.”

How this aligns with Apprenticeship Support Australia

Apprenticeship Support Australia (ASA) shares these priorities and plays a critical role in improving apprenticeship completion rates nationwide. This investment strengthens the ecosystem ASA operates within and creates opportunities to work together and improve apprentice retention and support.

ASA’s work to help apprentices overcome barriers and succeed complements the government’s targeted strategies. By partnering with employers and apprentices in priority industries, ASA provides the guidance and resources needed to ensure both businesses and learners thrive.

Whether you're an apprentice, trainee, or employer, our team is here to provide tailored support.