The State Government is urging recent Year 12 graduates to consider the hundreds of courses available through the State’s training providers.

Training and Workforce Development Minister Liza Harvey said right now many Year 12 graduates were considering their future and vocational training provided an attractive alternative to university.

“Graduates now have their exam results and will be wondering what to do next in their lives – having a post-school qualification greatly improves a young person’s employment prospects and income potential,” Mrs Harvey said.

“With the State’s changing economy and ageing workforce, Western Australia needs skilled workers in a range of industry areas.”

Economic forecasts show there is unmet demand for many jobs including electricians, fitters, aged and disability carers, building inspectors, gas and petroleum operators, health practice managers and human resource advisers.

“The ageing population will result in increased demand for health and social services, and the WA training sector will play a key role in providing qualified carers and nursing staff,” the Minister said.

“The Government’s 11 State training providers and more than 300 contracted private training providers offer high-quality training and skills development in these areas to ensure demand is met and young people can enter the workforce.”

More than 600 heavily subsidised priority courses will help train people in areas that will lead to jobs.

“The Government is committed to support vocational education and training. In 2015, the State Government will subsidise, on average, more than 80% of the costs of training,” Mrs Harvey said.