5000 Jobs in 50 Days: 800 apprenticeships and traineeships pledged
NEARLY 800 apprenticeships and traineeships have been pledged to News Corp’s 5000 Jobs in 50 Days campaign, bringing the jobs tally to 5681 Australian jobs so far.
The campaign aims to address high youth unemployment by encouraging employers to give first-time workers a go.
The 795 apprenticeships and traineeships are spread across the country in skills ranging from panel beating and diesel mechanics to business administration and retail.
The encouraging response comes as Australia celebrates vocational occupations for National Skills Week this week.
Michael Bennett, chief executive of hospitality and food services group training organisation HTN, says his company is recruiting for 84 apprenticeship positions in commercial cookery and retail butchery across NSW and the ACT.
“We’ve got all these jobs and can’t fill them for love or money,” he said.
“We are looking for people who are passionate about food, have an understanding of the industry, and are willing to commit to an apprenticeship.
“The industry can provide not only a great career but opportunities to travel the world.”
Campbelltown Catholic Club chef and 2014 HTN graduate Katey Shaw said apprenticeships were a great stepping stone and chefs in particular were in demand.
“Everyone needs to eat so you know no matter what you have always got a job,” she said.
“Even if you are not happy in a place you can go next door and there will be another restaurant or food joint or pop-up kitchen.
“Yes, we work long hours but if you have a passion for cooking and food and making people happy, you belong in the kitchen.”
Do you have a job for a first-time job seeker? Email 5000jobs@news.com.au and join our campaign.