Media release – Master Builders Tasmania, 18 December 2024

Master Builders urge students to pick up the tools when they leave school

As students approach the end of school and start to think about what’s next, Master Builders Tasmania is calling for them to pick up the tools and unlock a rewarding, well-paid career as a tradie.

Master Builders Tasmania CEO David Clerk said not only do first year apprentices earn up to $24 an hour from day one, but it would also set them up for life with an in-demand career.

“We know that skilled tradespeople are in high demand in Tasmania right now and we will only see that demand growing in the future,” Mr Clerk said.

“We currently have a workforce of 29,000 across the state but to deliver on the $27 billion infrastructure pipeline over the next 10 years, we will need at least 40,000 tradies.

“Not only that, you will earn good money and get hands-on training in a supportive environment.

“Some university students will finish a four-year degree having racked up nearly $100,000 debt without getting any real experience working in the area they are studying. In the same time, most apprentice tradies would have earned up to nearly a quarter of a million dollars and completed an apprenticeship in a trade that will set them up for life.

You don’t need to win the lottery to set yourself up for life, you just need to choose the right career and right now, there are incredible opportunities in the building and construction sector.”

Mr Clerk said the vast and varied benefits of an apprenticeship did not end with the financial advantages and endless work opportunities.

“These young Tasmanians will also get the satisfaction of building Tasmania’s future. Whether they are working on major developments like the stadium or smaller residential projects, they will be making a positive difference and contribution to the community.”