Greens propose scrapping apprentice training wage, offer $2000 equipment grants under new plan

The Green Party is proposing to abolish the training wage for apprentices if elected. 

Announced by co-leaders Marama Davidson and Chloe Swarbrick at a Remuera construction site today, the Greens argue what they believe are inadequate pay and a lack of opportunities and support have driven apprentice numbers to a 15-year low. 

The training wage is set at $19.16, or 80% of the adult minimum wage of $23.95 an hour. 

The Greens are proposing to abolish this exemption, arguing it has become an impediment to growing the trades workforce. 

“Instead of focusing on learning their trade, our apprentices spend too much time worried about making ends meet,” Swarbrick said. 

“We need more homes and renewable energy, which means we need a skilled workforce of builders, electricians, plumbers, mechanics, and other tradespeople to make it happen.” 

The Greens said their policy would also provide a $2000 equipment grant for each apprenticeship to cover tools, uniforms and course materials. 

They would also invest an additional $30 million annually in Māori and Pasifika-led training, including pastoral support, job matching and first-job assistance. 

They are also promising to give employers a $2000 completion bonus when they help apprentices successfully complete their qualifications. 

The Greens estimated the policy would cost $117.35m a year, with the figures independently verified by Infometrics. 

The Greens said they would seek to close the gap between the pay rates of students on placement and those of full-time, fully trained workers. 

Yesterday, the party proposed a universal $380-a-week payment for students completing compulsory practical placements in health and education roles. 

The policy, estimated to cost $74m to $80m a year, would apply to courses including nursing, midwifery, medicine, teaching, social work, counselling, physiotherapy, dentistry and veterinary training. 

It would be administered by StudyLink and paid on top of student loans or allowances for the duration of placement, with students required to relocate also able to claim $1500 towards moving costs.