The Challenge of Finding Qualified Apprentices
A construction industry leader in Australia has raised concerns about the difficulty of finding suitable apprentices, highlighting a growing issue that could impact the future of the sector. Scott Challen, who leads The QHI group based in Brisbane, recently shared his frustration after being approached by a young man seeking an apprenticeship. While he was initially eager to help, he quickly realized that the candidate lacked a driver’s licence, which he considers essential for the job.
Challen emphasized that having a driver’s licence is not just a convenience but a necessity for anyone working in the construction industry. He explained that apprentices often need to travel between different job sites across the state, making it impractical for someone without a licence to participate effectively.
This situation led him to question the effectiveness of the Albanese Government’s $10,000 incentive payment for hiring construction apprentices. While the initiative aims to encourage more young people into the industry, Challen argued that it doesn’t address the underlying problem: many young Australians are unable to even get to job sites due to a lack of driving skills.
A Broader Trend in Licensing Rates
Challen’s experience is not an isolated case. He discovered that there is a significant number of young Australians who are struggling to obtain their driver’s licences. This trend has been observed in various parts of the country, with studies showing a decline in licensing rates among teenagers and young adults over the past decade.
For instance, in South Australia, the percentage of 17 to 19-year-olds with a driver’s licence dropped from 62% in 2009 to 55% in 2018. Similarly, in Victoria, the proportion of people under 25 with a licence fell from 77% in 2001 to 66% in recent years. These statistics highlight a worrying shift in the behavior and preparedness of younger generations.
Barriers to Getting a Licence
The challenges faced by young people in obtaining a driver’s licence are multifaceted. Many cite the high cost of driving lessons and the test itself as significant barriers. Additionally, balancing school, work, and the time required to complete the necessary hours of practice can be overwhelming.
One parent shared their frustration, stating that “the cost of the test and licence is expensive” and that “finding time to get the hours up between long work hours is not easy.” Another pointed out that “disadvantaged kids trying to actually pay for 120 hours of lessons” face an uphill battle.
Some have suggested that not being able to hire the teenager might have been a blessing in disguise. One commenter noted that if the candidate was failing the driving test three times, it might indicate a lack of ability to follow instructions or maintain focus. Others argued that if someone struggles to get a driver’s licence, they may also struggle with an apprenticeship, requiring additional support from employers.
The Need for a Solution
Challen’s comments have sparked a broader conversation about the importance of preparing young people for life beyond school. Many believe that driving should be considered a fundamental life skill, one that should be taught in high schools alongside other essential subjects.
“Add driving lessons to the long list of life ready skills they don’t teach in school,” one person wrote. Others echoed this sentiment, emphasizing that “helping these kids leave school with their driver’s licence would make sense.”
The construction industry is facing a critical challenge in attracting and retaining apprentices. Without addressing the underlying issues related to access to driving education and the financial barriers involved, the sector may continue to struggle with a shortage of skilled workers. As the debate continues, it is clear that a comprehensive approach is needed to ensure that young Australians are equipped with the tools they need to succeed in the workforce.
