Apprenticeship program changes the right step in creating a future EV workforce

The Australian Government has announced changes to the $10,000 green apprentice scheme to attract more apprentices to the automotive industry and prepare them for the growing number of electric vehicles (EVs) on the road. This initiative aims to address the upcoming surge in EVs expected by 2030 (over 2 million) and complements the $60 million investment in charging infrastructure for the auto retail sector.

The revised program will ensure apprentices gain exposure to electric vehicles during their training. This is seen as a crucial step to equip the workforce for the significant shift towards electric vehicles and away from traditional fossil fuels. The announcement comes alongside the introduction of the New Vehicle Efficiency Standard (NVES) in 2025, which will broaden the range of electric and low-emission vehicles in Australia. This will necessitate technicians with the skills to service and repair these new types of vehicles.