Tuesday, 12 November 2024

 Gayle TIERNEY (Western Victoria – Minister for Skills and TAFE, Minister for Regional Development) (12:15): I rise to highlight the fantastic work of our apprenticeship support officers (ASO) and what they do right across our state. I had the opportunity to meet several support officers and apprentices recently. Jessica, who is a qualified electrician, and Kimbelee, who is undertaking a mechanical trades apprenticeship, both told me of their experiences facing discrimination and sexism in the workplace, and I was struck by their determination and courage. No-one should have to face harassment at work. I also met Luka and Paul, who had also faced challenges in their apprenticeships with employers who were unsupportive of mental health or saw apprentices as just cheap workers. All four apprentices turned to their apprenticeship support officers for assistance and, thanks to the guidance, support and care they received, they have been able to continue and even finish their apprenticeships.

In 2023 the ASO program assisted almost 17,500 apprentices, and almost 70 per cent of cases involved apprentices aged 19 or younger. The program also has a strong presence in regional Victoria, with a third of the supported apprentices based outside of metropolitan areas. These apprentices received the support they needed to overcome the challenges and complete their training. The ASO program is delivered in partnership with Victorian TAFEs, with 29 support officers working across more than 25 campuses. Building on the success of this program, the Allan Labor government accepted all apprenticeships taskforce recommendations, recently announcing a $9 million package to make apprenticeships safer and fairer. I want to thank our ASOs for their incredible efforts and also to thank Jessica, Kimbelee, Luka and Paul for sharing their experiences with me.