Free fast-tracked trade qualifications to target housing skills shortages.
Government
Posted By - Court Sayer-Roberts
08 September, 2026
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Summary: The federal government’s $78 million Advanced Entry Trades Training program is designed to fast-track nationally recognised qualifications for up to 6,000 experienced but unqualified workers in residential housing and civil construction. The program uses recognition of prior learning and gap training to move experienced workers toward formal VET qualifications. NSW is one of the first states to sign on, with enrolments expected to open from late 2026. Other states and territories are expected to implement the program locally during 2026, although detailed rollout information is not yet available for most jurisdictions.
Why it matters: Construction SMEs may gain access to a larger pool of formally qualified workers, while experienced labourers may have a pathway to recognised qualifications without starting from scratch. For NSW employers, the late-2026 enrolment timing gives builders and subcontractors a clearer window to identify experienced workers who may benefit from recognition and gap training.
Who is affected: Builders, subcontractors, civil construction firms, apprenticeships providers, labour hire firms, housing supply-chain businesses and experienced construction workers, particularly in NSW as the first confirmed rollout state.
