Industry News

Apprentices who completed their apprenticeship between 1 July 2023 and 30 June 2024 could have a $2000 cash payment coming their way.  Hurry, because time is running out to claim your Apprentice Completion Grant, with 30 September 2024 the deadline for claims submissions.  WA apprentices can also claim  an additional $500 reimbursement for the purchase of work-related tools and/or safety equipment during your apprenticeship. TLDR: How do I claim?   To claim your $2,000 Apprentice Completion Grant, log in to the […]

The Cook government has just announced a range of new funding initiatives to support the Western Australian economy, with continued investment in infrastructure and training. New initiatives funded by the Construction Training Fund

It’s never too late to get involved in workplace health and safety (WHS).  At CTF, we understand the importance of fostering safe and healthy workspaces. We know how exciting and dynamic construction workplaces can be–but also their dangers. By learning about safe work practices, we can develop inviting, hazard-free workplaces for ourselves and others. That’s why we’ve created a handy guide on workplace safety in construction, including all the tips and tricks to keeping yourself, and your workmates, safe all […]

Construction isn’t just about manual trades. Where there are tradies on the ground building amazing projects, there are white-collar workers behind the scenes designing and planning. White-collar, also referred to as paraprofessional, roles in construction typically refer to office-based positions like architecture and project management. These roles are just as important as bricklayers and concreters when it comes to executing high-quality, functional, and safe building projects. With a national white-collar skills shortage, the construction industry is calling out for qualified […]

Wet trades are still the foundation of most large building and infrastructure projects. They’re trades that use water to mix materials, so crafts like concreting, tiling, and painting. Wet trades encompass some of the longest-standing construction disciplines; without exaggeration, they’ve helped create the world we live in! What is a wet trade? “Wet trade” is a broad term describing trades that use materials mixed with water. Think plaster, paint, and concrete. If there’s water involved, it’s probably a wet trade.  […]

Construction short courses are an excellent way to upskill quickly in the construction industry. With a short course, you gain useful qualifications in record time. Short courses cover a range of different skills, with a mix of theoretical and practical training depending on the trade. The downside? They aren’t always cheap. Luckily, you may be eligible for funding from the Construction Training Fund (CTF). We provide funding for various courses in different industries. Here are some short course types subsidised […]

If you’re looking to propel your construction company or career to the next level, consider a construction mentoring program.   Construction mentoring programs allow experienced career professionals to guide less experienced workers, such as apprentices and trainees. A construction mentoring program can be set up internally in a company, or supplied by an external provider.  What are construction mentoring programs? Construction mentoring programs are training strategies that involve experienced industry professionals passing on skills and knowledge to newer workers. A construction […]

After dominating regionals, Christian Malinovic is on his way to the 2023 WorldSkills Australia National Championships! He’ll be one of seventeen Western Australian entrants showcasing their amazing trade skills and competing for a chance to join the Skills Squad and compete on an international stage.  Christian discovered tiling at a skills expo, and it definitely made an impression. When his school presented the opportunity to participate in CTF’s Scholarship Program, he grabbed it with both hands. His admirable work ethic […]

Mental health is an increasingly important topic in Australia, and the construction industry is no exception. As research and communication continue to improve, the construction industry must prioritise its workers’ mental health and well-being. Providing support for every worker in the industry is crucial in promoting a safe and healthy workplace. What is creating mental health issues in the construction industry? Mental health is a growing concern in Australia’s construction industry. Construction workers often face high-pressure situations, dangerous work environments, […]