Apprenticeships and traineeships that combine classroom and workplace learning with mentoring are generally seen as an effective way of preparing less academic youth, and retraining adults, for work. However, the long-term effects of this model in Australia are unclear. Only half of all apprentices in Australia complete and the job-specific nature of training can limit the ability to respond to changes in skills demand and other factors such as health shocks. This study will use the Multi-Agency Data Integration Project (MADIP) to investigate the factors associated with apprenticeship and traineeship completion and long-term outcomes on earnings, employment, welfare receipt and health.
It is important to understand the current opportunity structures in Australia and what works to assist Australian children and families to overcome deep and persistent disadvantage. As an accessible form of education and training clearly linked with employment needs, apprenticeships and traineeships are a key vehicle for social mobility. The focus of this study will include the use of employer incentives to encourage training opportunities, identifying which students stand to gain, and what are the long-term impacts on life prospects of disadvantaged groups.