Provision of Labour Market Services

Project Summary

The purpose of the research project is to contribute a better understanding of the reasons behind Western Australia’s probationary apprenticeship non-completion rates. In particular, the project will focus on understanding the reasons why apprentices terminate an apprenticeship during probation; the difference in the characteristics of non-completing probationary apprentices compared to those of non-completing post-probationary apprentices and to apprentices who successfully complete; the occupation-related and employer-related factors that contribute to higher probation period non-completion rates; and if apprentices who withdraw during their probation have had prior exposure to the VET system, such as through pre-apprenticeship.

The research will be conducted through an econometric analysis of non-completion and completion rates for apprentices in Western Australia. The outcome of the project will be the submission of a report and a presentation outlining the key findings from the research to the Department of Training and Workforce Development (DTWD). The findings from the report will assist the Department to develop strategies to further increase the rate of successful training outcomes.