The Minns Labor Government is delivering on its election commitment to employ an extra 1,000 apprentices across NSW Government agencies, with 71 new apprentices and trainees kicking off their careers at Transport for NSW worksites this month.
From filling potholes to rebuilding flood‑damaged roads, planning major works and maintaining heavy vehicles, the new Roads Maintenance and Resilience recruits will join and support frontline teams strengthening the state’s transport network.
Following group inductions in Wollongong, Newcastle and Dubbo, the new recruits will soon get their hands on the tools.
They join an existing group of 92 apprentices and trainees progressing through the program from previous intakes.
More than just a foot in the door, the program offers the chance to make a real impact on the daily lives of people who rely on the roads, bridges and connections these teams help maintain.
Participants have the opportunity to earn and learn on the job while developing practical skills in their chosen field from civil construction and bridge maintenance to heavy diesel mechanics, business, finance and project management.
They walk away with a nationally recognised qualification while contributing to essential work that keeps communities safe and connected.
This year’s intake reflects the Minns Government’s focus on growing skilled jobs across regional NSW, with almost 90 per cent of new positions based outside Sydney. These entry‑level roles are helping build a strong pipeline of skilled workers ready to support the future transport needs of the state.
This investment is part of the Minns Labor Government’s record $3.4 billion in TAFE NSW and skills funding in the 2025-26 Budget which includes:
- $40.2 million over two years towards fee free apprenticeships and traineeships
- $13.8 million Construction Workforce Package
- $121 million to repair TAFE NSW campuses across the state
- $78 million to continue converting eligible teachers from casual to permanent roles.
Find out more about the Transport for NSW Apprentice and Trainee Program
Minister for Roads, Jenny Aitchison, said:
“We are getting more apprentices on the tools to repair and maintain NSW roads.
“These 71 new apprentices and trainees are proof that the Minns Labor Government is backing local jobs while strengthening the roads our communities rely on every day.
“From filling potholes and repairing flood damage to maintaining bridges and heavy vehicles, these recruits are making a real contribution from day one.
“With almost 90 per cent of roles based in regional NSW, we are building a strong pipeline of skilled workers who will keep our transport network safe, reliable and resilient into the future.”
Acting Minister for Skills, TAFE and Tertiary Education, David Harris, said:
“This program shows how the Minns Labor Government is working to deliver on its commitment to create an extra 1,000 apprenticeships and traineeships across NSW Government agencies to grow the skilled workforce our state needs.
“Through on the job training as apprentices and trainees, these recruits are earning while they learn and gaining skills that set them up for great, long-term careers.
“We are creating real pathways into meaningful work, particularly in regional communities, so local people can build their futures close to home.”
Member for Wallsend, Sonia Hornery, said:
“It is fantastic to see new apprentices and trainees starting their careers here in our region, including at the Waratah Depot.
“These young workers are gaining practical skills on live projects while helping maintain the roads and bridges our local community depends on.
“This investment strengthens our local workforce and ensures we have the capability to deliver the infrastructure our growing communities need.”
Deputy Secretary, Road Maintenance and Resilience, Transport for NSW, Matt Fuller said:
“This program gives people real skills, real experience and a recognised qualification—while boosting the capability of our workforce across NSW.
“As they build their skills on live sites, they’re helping lift the resilience of our transport network and supporting the teams who keep NSW moving.”
Maddi Ormsby, Bridge construction & Maintenance Apprentice said:
“The Bridge Construction and Maintenance apprenticeship really appealed to me because it meant I’d get to do hands on work outdoors.
“There’s such a great mix of bridges we look after—everything from concrete and timber structures to heritage ones. We don’t just maintain them; we get the chance to build them too, and we work across all sorts of locations.
“I’ve only been in the job a few weeks, and I’ve already had the opportunity to travel and work in Singleton, Muswellbrook, Dunmore and Dungog.”
Harrison Hudson, Operational Management Systems Trainee said:
“The traineeship was appealing since the location was much closer to home than my previous job, and it felt like a great opportunity to learn new things, give back to my community, and grow my career.
“I knew that once you get started at Transport, a traineeship can possibly open the door to future opportunities down the track.
“I’m really enjoying it so far. The people I have met at Transport are welcoming and friendly, which made it easy to settle in, and everyone has been so helpful and supportive.”