The Survival of Apprenticeship Training in Australia?

Abstract

This article examines the development of apprenticeship training in Australia over a long time perspective. The amount and quality of apprenticeship training have fluctuated over time, but until recently the proportion of apprentices in the workforce has held up better in Australia than in other English-speaking countries, though not as well as in the German-speaking and allied countries. The reasolls for the survival of apprenticeship are examined and an explanation is preferred in terms of the interaction between institutional supports and the requirements and capabilities of employers. At the present time the apprenticeship system is under pressure and stands at a crossroads as Australia moves towards more mixed training arrangements. However, the system remains strong and still has much to commend it.