Western Australian, Paul Gaffy, 26, has won the Master Builders Australia’s 2009 National Apprentice of the Year award.
The carpentry and joinery apprentice was presented with his award by the Minister for Employment Participation, Senator Mark Arbib, at a gala dinner at the Gold Coast tonight.
“This is an outstanding recognition of Paul’s enthusiasm, energy and commitment in developing his skills to a high standard in the building industry,” Senator Arbib said.
“He is highly respected by his colleagues, sub-contractors and clients and is an excellent role model for the building industry.”
The National Apprentice of the Year award acknowledges excellence in the building and construction industry and was sponsored by the Australian Government’s Department of Education, Employment and Workplace Relations.
Senator Arbib said the Australian Government is investing $3.8 billion over four years to support Australian Apprenticeships.
“The Government is also investing an additional $100 million in the Apprentice Kickstart program for up to 21,000 young Australians entering traditional trades this summer,” Senator Arbib said.
“Programs like this will ensure that Australia continues to recruit and train apprentices in traditional trades and is ready to meet a potential skills shortage head on.
“Recent figures show people starting trade apprenticeships have dropped by more than 20 per cent during the economic downturn compared to the same time last year.
“We know that in the 1990s, apprentice commencements took a decade to bounce back to pre-recession levels, creating a skills shortage that held Australia back.
“This bonus will fast-forward hiring decisions to bring apprentice numbers up to levels before the global recession. We need to prepare now for when the Australian economy recovers.”
Senator Arbib said the Australian Government was committed to building a better future for all Australians and Australian businesses and providing more opportunities for apprentices is a part of that commitment.
The Master Builders Australia National Excellence in Building and Construction Awards were held at the Pavilion Marquee at Conrad Jupiters on the Gold Coast.