Education and Training Minister Rod Welford said the shorter durations of apprenticeships would make them a more attractive option and help address the skills shortage by turning out competent tradesmen and women in a shorter time.

Some trades will have their training times shortened from 48 to 42 months, including mechanical engineering, sheetmetal working, construction machining and diesel fitting.

Other apprenticeships to be shortened include bricklaying, carpentry, solid plastering, wall and floor tiling, and some off-site construction trades such as shopfitting, joinery, stair construction and sign-writing.

There will be no change to apprenticeships for plumbing, gas fitting, aeroskills, civil construction, electro-technology and some automotive trades, including electrical, light vehicle, diesel fitting and heavy vehicle, due to the complexities around licensing requirements.

Welford said the Government would ensure that off-the-job training is aligned with the shorter apprenticeship durations.

“We will work with training providers and employers so that all training, both off-the-job and in the workplace, can be completed within the shortest reasonable timeframe,” he said.

For more information about the changes to apprenticeship durations call 1300 369 935 or visit www.deta.qld.gov.au/skillsplan