Labour To Expand Apprenticeship Boost

Labour will expand Apprenticeship Boost to two full years, extend it to more trades, and introduce new grants and mentoring to help more apprentices complete their training.

“Too many young New Zealanders are struggling to find good jobs while our country faces growing skills shortages,” Labour Leader Chris Hipkins said.

“When Labour introduced Apprenticeship Boost in 2020, it helped tens of thousands of apprentices get the training they needed for secure, well-paid careers. National cut that support to help fund tax breaks to tobacco companies and property speculators.

“Labour is committed to helping New Zealanders find good jobs and build the workforce of the future. That’s exactly what this policy delivers,” Chris Hipkins said.

“National pulled the rug out from under thousands of apprentices at a time when youth unemployment is soaring and businesses are crying out for skilled workers,” Labour Tertiary Education spokesperson Shanan Halbert said.

“Under Labour employers will receive $500 a month for the first two years of an apprenticeship, not just the first year.

“We’re expanding the trades that qualify, including road construction, water treatment, hairdressers, and other industries.

“Eligible apprentices will be able to apply for a new $1,000 grant to help cover the costs of tools and kit.

“All apprentices will also be able to access extra support and mentoring, thanks to new funding for Industry Skills Boards and providers. We know lack of support is a big reason why many apprentices don’t complete their training and this policy directly addresses that.

“Apprentices need more support, and New Zealand needs more skilled workers. This policy delivers both, and it’s just the start of Labour’s plan to build good careers right here in New Zealand,” Shanan Halbert said.

Key policy details:

· Apprenticeship Boost employer subsidy restored to two years at $500/month per apprentice

· Eligibility expanded to include new industries

· Grant of up to $1,000 to cover work-related upfront costs for apprentices in the scheme

· $2 million for Industry Skills Boards and providers to pilot additional support and mentoring

· Costed at an average of $56.5 million a year, funded through future operating allowances

· Expand eligibility to new trades and piloting the mentoring scheme will both begin 1 July 2027

· Extension to two years of support will come into effect on 1 July 2028

· New Apprenticeship Boost apprentices will be able to access the $1,000 startup grant from 1 July 2027