Most Australian apprentices and trainees are committed to completing their qualifications, but their success depends heavily on workplace support, mental wellbeing and early mentoring, according to new national research released by Apprenticeship Support Australia (ASA).
The National First Year Experience Report, based on the experiences of more than 12,000 current and former apprentices and trainees, provides one of the most comprehensive snapshots yet of the factors influencing apprentice retention at a time when apprenticeship commencements continue to decline. The report was officially launched in Sydney by Minister for Skills and Training Andrew Giles.
The research found that around 76 per cent of apprentices had not considered leaving their apprenticeship, suggesting most are motivated to complete their training and that many employers are creating positive workplace environments. However, the report also identified several factors that significantly increase the risk of apprentices dropping out.
Mental health emerged as one of the strongest influences on retention, with apprentices experiencing sadness, anxiety or worry found to be 65 per cent more likely to consider leaving their apprenticeship. Cost-of-living pressures also continue to weigh heavily, with 55 per cent of respondents reporting they were significantly affected by rising living costs. That figure increased to 58 per cent for apprentices living with disability and 60 per cent for First Nations apprentices.
The study also found that career advice before entering the workforce remains inconsistent, with fewer than half of respondents saying they had received balanced information about all available career pathways while at school. Those who did receive comprehensive career guidance reported better mental health outcomes after beginning their apprenticeship or traineeship.
Apprenticeship Support Australia chief executive Lee Xavier said the findings demonstrated that apprentice attrition was not driven by a lack of commitment.
"The message from apprentices and trainees is clear: most want to succeed, but the quality of their early experience matters," Xavier said.
"This report challenges the idea that apprentices drop out because they lack commitment. Most apprentices and trainees want to stay, learn and build a career. The challenge is making sure the right support is wrapped around them in that critical first year."
Xavier said strengthening first-year mentoring, improving links between workplace learning and formal training, expanding wellbeing support and providing better career advice before apprentices begin work would improve completion rates. He added that simple measures such as regular check-ins, structured mentoring and creating workplaces where apprentices feel comfortable raising concerns could make a significant difference.