The Master Plumbers Association of NSW (MPA NSW) says it is extremely disappointed with the recent cabinet reshuffle by the Albanese Government, which has excluded the federal portfolio of Skills and Training from the cabinet. This decision comes at a critical time when Australia is grappling with a severe skills crisis due to inadequate apprentice training over the past three decades.

The Albanese government has set an ambitious target for the building and construction industry: to build 1.2 million homes over the next 5 to 10 years. Achieving this target is contingent upon having a skilled workforce, yet excluding this crucial portfolio, MPA NSW says, undermines the foundation needed to drive this agenda.

“The omission of the Skills and Training portfolio from the cabinet is a significant oversight,” said MPA NSW CEO Nathaniel Smith. “It is imperative for the government to recognise the importance of addressing the skills shortage that threatens to derail its ambitious housing targets.”

MPA NSW says it urges the Albanese government to restore Skills and Training as a Cabinet position, and consider adopting other approaches to tackling the skills crisis. First, MPA NSW recommends, it should provide more significant incentives for employers to take on apprentices, ensuring a steady pipeline of skilled workers. Second, it should offer more substantial financial assistance to non-profit Peak Industry Body Registered Training Organisations (RTOs), enabling them to enhance their training capabilities and train a high volume of the next generation of tradies, as TAFE can’t do it alone.

Mr Smith added: “Addressing the skills crisis requires proactive measures and unwavering commitment. We call on the government to prioritise the skills and training portfolio and take decisive action to support the development of our future workforce.”