Eligible employers can access up to $20,000 from today for hiring an out-of-work apprentice or trainee under a $70 million extension to Queensland’s Back to Work program.

Member for Rockhampton Barry O’Rourke said the Apprentice or Trainee Boost was an extension to the program that had employed more than 20,000 people over four years.

“As we unite and recover from COVID-19, the Palaszczuk Government’s number one priority is jobs,” Mr O’Rourke said.

“We’re continuing to manage the health response and that means we can focus on delivering Queensland’s plan for economic recovery.

“We are supporting local businesses and local jobs wherever we can.

“The Back to Work program is tried and tested, and we know it delivers results.

“Since 2016, it has supported 10,000 Queensland employers to create 22,600 jobs – almost 1000 jobs in Rockhampton alone.

“This $70 million extension will provide businesses with incentives to take on a previously unemployed Queenslander, including support for young people and apprentices and trainees.”

Minister for Employment and Small Business and Minister for Training and Skills Development Shannon Fentiman said the initiative would deliver real support for business owners and get people back in the workforce.

“Back to Work has been delivering this support to business owners for years and this announcement will encourage a faster recovery and a brighter future for many,” Ms Fentiman said.

“Tackling youth and long-term unemployment and continuing to train our future skilled workforce is a priority because real recovery can’t leave people behind.

“We must prepare people for productive careers.

“Back to Work was designed to support ongoing employment opportunities and, even in the middle of an unforeseen pandemic and social distancing restrictions, it has been doing that.

“Now it has an important role to play to help businesses reopen, rebuild and get growing again.”

For further information visit www.backtowork.initiatives.qld.gov.au or call 1300 369 935.