Steve Whan
Minister for Skills, TAFE and Tertiary Education

MEDIA RELEASE

Empowering diversity and inclusion in NSW apprenticeships

Friday, 3 May 2024

NSW apprentices facing hardships now have the change to get the financial help they need to succeed, with applications open for the 2024 Bert Evans Apprentice Scholarships.

The $2.25 million government investment supports apprentices who are experience financial difficulties or personal hardship in completing their work and training. 

150 successful applicants receive a $5,000 scholarship annually for three years, totalling $15,000.

Previous recipients from across NSW have included Indigenous apprentices, people with disabilities, women in non-traditional trades, and mature-aged people from regional NSW, highlighting the program's commitment to diversity and inclusion. 

Currans Hill resident, Felicity Pettiford was awarded a scholarship in 2020, which greatly assisted her through her apprenticeship. She's now a head carpenter building residential homes across the state and is a keen promoter of women in trades. 

The scholarship is named after Bert Evans AO, who was former CEO of the Metal Trades Industry Association, Chair of the NSW Board of Vocational Education and Training and NSW Apprenticeships Ambassador. 

Since 2014 the scholarship program has provided support to more than 900 apprentices across NSW.

The Bert Evans Apprentice Scholarship is part of the Apprenticeship and Traineeship Roadmap (2024-2026), which will drive the development of apprenticeships and traineeships in NSW over the next three years, taking an inclusive and learner-centred approach.

Eligible first-year apprentices, including schools-based apprentices throughout the state are encouraged to apply. Application forms must be submitted before Friday 31 May 2024.

For more information visit: 

Minister for Skills, TAFE and Tertiary Education, Steve Whan said:

"The continuation of the Bert Evans Apprentice Scholarship shows our commitment to ensuring that all apprentices in NSW, regardless of their circumstances, have the opportunity to succeed in their chosen trades.

"The financial commitment by the NSW Labor Government, totalling $2.25 million over three years, is an investment in the future success of these apprentices and the growth of our skilled workforce.

"Through these scholarships, we are not just providing financial support; we are investing in the future of our workforce and our economy.

"These apprentices represent the future of our skilled workforce, breaking barriers and contributing to a more diverse and dynamic industry. 

"The experience of past recipients demonstrates the transformative impact of the scholarships on apprentices' lives and careers."

Head Carpenter, All About Carpentry, Felicity Pettiford said:

"My Bert Evans Apprentice Scholarship greatly helped me throughout my apprenticeship.

"With the money, I was able to pay for my tools, toolboxes, and fuel each week and buy a reliable car.

"Being awarded a Bert Evans Apprentice Scholarship makes you feel good. It reassures you that you're doing well and you're on the right path.

"Good luck to all the 2024 Bert Evans Apprentice Scholarship nominees."