While the number of apprenticeship intakes across Australia peaked in 2021, at the current time less than half of apprenticeships are being completed.

The chronically high drop-out rates for trade apprentices will be scrutinised by an Albanese government review of incentives that get trainees into the system, with the aim of improving completion rates.

ETU National Secretary Michael Wright told Julie-anne Sprague on 6PR Afternoons more lucrative options for young people – including the subsidy-backed fast food industry – are drawing them away.

“Apprentices are just not getting the mentoring and support that they used to, especially considering that we used to have big employers who were heavily involved,” Mr Wright said.

Press PLAY to hear more on the worrying trend