Prospective electrical refrigeration technicians are now able to complete both electrical and refrigeration/air conditioning qualifications concurrently, with the State Government's Training and Skills Commission acting on industry feedback to introduce this new dual trade pathway.
An Australian first, this new trade was developed in consultation with the SA/NT chapter of the National Electrical and Communications Association (NECA), and addresses demand broader skill sets in this specialised industry.
"The qualification sets a new benchmark in Australia for the delivery of trade qualifications in two disciplines, and establishes a pilot model for additional dual trade pathways in the future," Minister for Innovation and Skills David Pisoni said.
"An innovative approach to apprenticeship delivery, the dual trade qualification is designed to increase productivity and capability for businesses, who can in turn offer customers a broader range of services.
"For some time now the refrigeration and air-conditioning sector has reported a shortage of electrical refrigeration technicians who are fully skilled and licensed in both the electrical and refrigeration trades.
"Despite both qualifications being in demand, until now the only way to resolve this issue was by people completing two apprenticeships – a pathway that can take up to eight years.
"Through concurrent delivery of the training, it is intended that the dual trade qualification can be achieved in just five years, making the new apprenticeship attractive to both employees and employers."
NECA's Executive Director Larry Moore said the dual trade pathway would address demand for broader skills sets in the industry providing greater efficiencies and productivity for industry.
"We've worked closely with the State Government to develop this dual trade apprenticeship, and we're excited to see this implemented so that our members can benefit from having multiskilled workers to grow their businesses."
D-Stal Electrical's Damien Staltari welcomed the announcement of the dual trade pathway, which will be a boost for his industry.
"This reform and the new wage subsidy from the Federal Government for new apprentices will encourage employers to take on new or additional apprentices, which will create more jobs," Mr Staltari said.
"Having people employed with this dual trade will deliver efficiencies on certain jobs for a business like ours, which will allow us to grow our business and deliver more cost-effective services."
A pilot project will be established during the first stage of implementation, with a small number of apprentices commencing in early 2021.
