Oil and Gas Workforce Apprenticeships are Key to Future-Proofing 

As demand escalates for skilled workers in clean energy solutions, the oil and gas industry must embrace the strategic advantage offered by apprenticeships. MEGT, Australia’s largest Apprentice Connect Provider, is dedicated to helping organisations attract, train, and retain talent, thereby addressing critical workforce gaps and fostering growth, innovation, and diversity.

Strategic Workforce DevelopmentOil and Gas Workforce Apprenticeships are Key to Future-Proofing 

Apprenticeships provide businesses with the dual opportunity of recruiting fresh talent or upskilling existing staff. According to MEGT state manager Blake Wallace, apprenticeships significantly boost productivity, innovation, skills transfer, and employee retention.

“Our partner organisations recognise that as new technologies emerge, they require a skilled workforce ready to adapt and thrive,” Wallace explained.

Historically, the oil and gas sector has struggled to attract and retain young talent, but apprenticeships are changing this dynamic. Wallace notes that more than half of apprentices stay with their employers post-qualification, underscoring apprenticeships’ value for long-term workforce stability.

Currently, MEGT is predominantly enrolling apprentices in qualifications tailored to critical areas within oil and gas, including:

• Process Plant Operations
• Mechanical Engineering
• Electrotechnology Electricians

MEGT’s Comprehensive Support

Recognising the challenges presented by remote and offshore operations, MEGT provides extensive support services, making the apprenticeship process seamless for employers:

• Free Job Board: Employers can quickly and easily find suitable apprenticeship candidates.
• Pre-Sign-Up Checks: Comprehensive early assessments identify apprentices’ and employers’ support needs.
• Efficient Administrative Support: MEGT handles sign-up and training contract registration on-site, reducing employer administrative burdens.
• Tailored Mentoring and Support: MEGT provides ongoing, tiered support precisely when and where it’s needed.
• Expert Financial Guidance: Specialists clarify eligibility criteria and help businesses access incentives seamlessly.

Financial Incentives

To encourage hiring and skill development in priority areas such as clean energy, the Australian Apprenticeships Incentive System offers significant financial support:

• Priority Hiring Incentive: Employers hiring apprentices in clean energy sectors can receive up to $5,000 for full-time or $2,500 for part-time apprentices in their first year.
• New Energy Apprentice Support Payment: Apprentices pursuing clean energy pathways may be eligible for up to $10,000 throughout their apprenticeship.

Enhanced Living Allowance

Recognising difficulties in attracting and retaining apprentices in regional and remote areas, the Federal Government will significantly increase the Living Away from Home Allowance (LAFHA) from July 2025:

• First-year apprentices: from $77.17 to $134.05 weekly
• Second-year apprentices: from $38.59 to $67.03 weekly
• Third-year apprentices: from $25 to $43.43 weekly

These enhancements highlight MEGT’s commitment to addressing industry challenges and supporting oil and gas businesses in creating a sustainable, skilled, and future-ready workforce.