Launched by the Patron of Group Training Australia, Major General Michael Jeffery, Governor-General of Australia, at Government House on 25th August, “Today’s Skills: Tomorrow’s Leaders” is a leadership program for 21 of Australia’s best apprentices.

This 3 day intensive program is being conducted at the Australian Institute of Sport and includes interactive sessions targeting personal leadership skills, effective workplace teams and leadership in the broader community, to equip participants spread the message of the value of a trade training background, at a time when Australia faces its biggest national skills shortage.

“The current skills shortfall is estimated to cost Australia $9 billion in lost output. Right now it is of utmost importance to provide added support and incentive for apprentices and trainees and to give them the opportunity to develop the leadership, work and life skills they need to be role models for apprenticeship training now and in the future.” said GTA CEO, Jim Barron.

The importance of apprenticeships and skills is also an area identified by many Australians. A recent Newspoll survey released by the Dusseldorp Skills Forum, showed 70 percent of Australians wanted governments to put a greater priority on assisting teenagers to get an apprenticeship or a traineeship and providing job opportunities for school leavers.

The Governor-General, in his support for the cause, said: “We must educate, involve, and encourage our youth to achieve their full potential in whichever field they work. Their involvement in the workplace and development as tomorrow’s leaders is critical as Australia strives to become a “Nation of Excellence”.

“Today’s Skills: Tomorrow’s Leaders” is an initiative that recognises the wealth of talent and commitment that exists amongst the group training network of apprentices and trainees and is a practical step towards a culture that values skilled leaders.