A major change to support for apprentices and trainees has been announced by assistant minister for education and training, Simon Birmingham. The new Australian Apprenticeship Support Network, due to be launched 1 July 2015, will be delivered nationally by MEGT Australia.

The new programme will see the introduction of increased help for businesses to match the right person to their apprenticeship and provide far more support for the apprentice and the employer so they have a better chance of successful completion.

Senator Birmingham announced “The Apprenticeship Network will make it easier for employers to recruit, train and retain apprentices and trainees with the ultimate aim of improving Australian Apprenticeships completion rates.”

MEGT has been awarded a contract as a provider for 7 out of 8 states and territories, cementing itself as the only national provider of apprenticeship support.

MEGT CEO David Windridge said “MEGT is proud to be the only organisation to be awarded the Australian Apprenticeship Support Network contract across all states and the ACT. It is a testament to the commitment of every member of our team. This appointment recognises our success and MEGT’s commitment to apprenticeship services for over 17 years (since 1998) as well as our ability to be responsive to the needs of Australian employers and apprentices from all industries.”

MEGT general manager Bridie Gildea commented, “The growth of our Australian Apprenticeship services is underpinned by our integrity, professionalism and ethical reputation.”

Assistant minister Birmingham said at the launch “The Apprenticeship Network introduces innovative new targeted services which will deliver tailored advice and support of apprenticeship support  to Australian apprentices and employers.”

MEGT has been a long term leader and provider in the apprenticeship sector and was encourage by today’s announcement of the new Support Network’s objectives.  Ms Gildea responded “We are fully focused on the lifecycle of the apprenticeship, achieving the right fit of employer and apprentice, mentoring throughout the journey, to achieve increased completion rates and the ultimate goal of upskilling our nation.”

MEGT is well resourced in all states and the ACT for the Australian Apprenticeship Support Network. Ms Gildea said “We look forward to continuing to offer great service to our current clients and welcoming new clients. Whether they operate at a national or local level MEGT’s experience can be crucial to successfully navigating the various state jurisdictions saving valuable time and resources.”