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Thursday, 23rd September 2004

Howard Admits Toolboxes Won't Fix Skills Crisis


Today on radio Mr Howard admitted that his toolbox announcement yesterday will do nothing to address the biggest economic challenge confronting Australia – the acute shortage of skilled workers.


When questioned about his $91 million toolbox commitment, Mr Howard responded:


“I don’t hold this out as being the answer to the skills shortage…”


Source: Brisbane 4BC, 9/23/04


It certainly isn’t the answer. Mr Howard’s toolboxes are nothing more than a gimmick.


This commitment also highlights Mr Howard ignorance. Apprentices currently receive a tool allowance worth up to $22 a week as part of their award. As a result of Mr Howard’s announcement yesterday, apprentices will potentially lose this allowance and be left financially worse off.


Current skills shortages could cost the Australian economy $9 billion over the next 10 years.


Labor has a plan. Howard has a gimmick.


 


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Electorate Office

334a Marrickville Rd
Marrickville NSW 2204

Phone: 02 9564 3588

Parliament House Office

Parliament House
Canberra ACT 2600

Phone: 02 6277 7700

Phone: (02) 9564 3588
Fax: (02) 9564 1734
Email: A.Albanese.MP@aph.gov.au

We acknowledge the traditional custodians of the land on which our offices stand and we pay our respects to Elders past, present and emerging. We acknowledge the sorrow of the Stolen Generations and the impacts of colonisation on Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. We also recognise the resilience, strength and pride of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities.

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