Pilot program launched to boost traineeship enrolments

A traineeship pilot program launched by Training and Workforce Development Minister Peter Collier is set to open doors for a host of new workers.

Targeting selected traineeships in the Western Australian Aged Care, Disability and Community Care sectors, the program allowed the minimum part-time hours for eligibility to be reduced from 20 hours per week to 15.

A greater number of people who work part-time in the community services sector would become eligible to undertake a traineeship.

"Previously, requirements for a part-time worker in WA seeking to undertake a traineeship meant they had to be employed for a minimum of 20 hours per week," Mr Collier said.

"In the aged care, disability, and home and community care sectors, many people work a minimum of 15 hours, therefore making them ineligible to undertake a traineeship.

"This is a groundbreaking project that will significantly increase the opportunity for care workers to undertake training and gain a nationally recognised qualification."

The project has been developed following the Minister's discussions with the Community Services, Health and Education Training Council, and consultation with the National Disability Services, and Aged and Community Services WA.

It would be implemented across two years and focus exclusively on six traineeships: Aged Care Work (levels 3 and 4), Disability Services (levels 3 and 4), and Community Care (levels 3 and 4).

"The new opportunities these traineeships provide will make a significant difference at a time of growing demand for people needing aged, disability and community care, at a time of  increased competition for all workers," Mr Collier said.

"This is a great example of industry, Government and the Training Council working together to address workforce requirements and develop practical and innovative solutions.

"It also demonstrates the flexibility of the State's training system to respond to the needs of industry."