Small businesses across the Northern Rivers are set to benefit from a $20 million NSW Government training boost, as apprenticeships and traineeships continue to recover from the devastating 2022 floods.
The investment will expand access to funded training for existing workers, helping Northern Rivers businesses address skills shortages, improve productivity and create more local employment opportunities.
The announcement comes as apprenticeship and traineeship participation across the region approaches pre-flood levels, marking a significant milestone in the Northern Rivers’ ongoing economic recovery.
Since the 2022 floods, more than 10,500 apprentices and trainees have commenced training across seven flood-affected local government areas, with 3,500 receiving their Certificate of Proficiency.
Currently, 1,288 small businesses across the Northern Rivers employ 3,565 apprentices and trainees, highlighting the important role local employers play in developing the region’s workforce.
Under the expanded NSW Government Part Qualifications Program, existing small business employees will be able to access funded short courses and training in areas including digital technologies and artificial intelligence.
The initiative aims to help regional businesses adapt to changing industry demands while allowing workers to develop new skills and advance their careers locally.
During a visit to Lismore as part of Small Business Month, Minister for Skills, TAFE and Tertiary Education Steve Whan toured local businesses, including Southside Chempro pharmacy, to recognise their contribution to employment and training.
Whan said the recovery in training participation demonstrated the strength of the Northern Rivers business community.
“Small businesses are the backbone of communities across the Northern Rivers and play a critical role in creating jobs, building skills and training the next generation of workers.” said Whan.
“The Minns Labor Government is investing more than $20 million to give workers and small businesses access to practical training that helps businesses grow, improves productivity and creates new opportunities for employees.
“It’s really encouraging to see apprenticeship and traineeship participation across the Northern Rivers approaching pre-flood levels, with more than 10,500 people commencing training since the devastating floods of 2022 and more than 3,500 completing their qualifications.
“Whether it’s helping businesses adopt new technology, supporting apprentices and trainees or creating pathways into secure jobs, we’re making sure workers and employers have access to the skills that work, for the future.”
Member for Lismore and Minister for the North Coast Janelle Saffin said local businesses had played a vital role in rebuilding the region following the floods.
“Small businesses across the North Coast and Northern Rivers do far more than drive our regional economy – they are the heart of our communities. Having stood alongside them throughout the recovery journey, it’s inspiring to see how tirelessly local employers continue to support their neighbourhoods.” said Saffin.
“Seeing apprenticeship and traineeship participation bounce back so strongly across the region reflects the determination of our small business sector to keep growing and building for the future.
“This $20 million investment provides practical support to upskill workers, adopt new technology, and strengthen workforce capabilities. Southside Chempro is a fantastic example of a business delivering vital local services while actively creating opportunities for staff to develop their skills right here where we live.”
The expanded training program is expected to provide further opportunities for Northern Rivers businesses to strengthen their workforce, support local jobs and contribute to the region’s long-term economic recovery.
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