Electrical apprenticeships in Victoria could open new pathways for migrants and students

A paid job while studying is an idea that sounds attractive to many people starting a new life in Australia.

For migrants adjusting to a new country or international students weighing up future career options, finding a pathway that offers income, practical experience and long-term job opportunities can feel like finding three things at once.

The Victorian Government’s latest announcement may place more attention on trade careers, particularly in the energy sector.

The government has announced plans to create 2,000 electrical trade apprenticeships over the next four years through a new SEC Apprenticeship Academy, to help build the workforce needed for Victoria’s energy future.

The proposed academy, described as Victoria’s first publicly owned apprenticeship academy, would see apprentices employed by the State Electricity Commission (SEC) while completing their training.

The first intake is expected to begin in January 2027.

Why this may matter for migrants and international students

When many people think about migration or study pathways in Australia, careers such as nursing, accounting, IT or engineering often come to mind first.

But Australia has also been facing skills shortages in trade occupations, including electricians.

According to the Victorian Government, the number of electricians working in Victoria’s energy sector will need to increase by 50 per cent by 2040, with energy jobs expected to grow to around 68,000 positions across the state.

For migrants and international students already considering technical or vocational careers, that demand could create future opportunities.

Unlike some study pathways that can involve years of classroom learning before entering the workforce, apprenticeships typically combine training with paid work experience.

The phrase often used is “earn while you learn” — meaning apprentices receive wages while developing practical skills on the job.

The challenge many apprentices face

The government said one reason some apprentices struggle to finish their training is that many have to find placements and navigate different worksites on their own.

Under the proposed SEC model, apprentices would study and work together while gaining experience across a range of energy projects through an industry-led partnership.

Participants would also have access to training facilities – one in Melbourne and another in regional Victoria.

Premier Jacinta Allan said the initiative would help prepare workers for Victoria’s future energy needs.

“2,000 young workers in the SEC Apprenticeship Academy – earning while they’re learning, building cheaper, homegrown power,” Allan said.

Questions migrants and students may want to ask

While the announcement may create interest, migrants and international students should remember that apprenticeship eligibility requirements can differ depending on visa conditions, residency status and employer requirements.

Some questions worth exploring include:

• Is the apprenticeship open only to Australian citizens or permanent residents?
• Can temporary visa holders apply?
• Are there educational prerequisites?
• Is prior trade experience needed?
• What pathways may exist after completion?

As more details become available closer to the academy’s launch, people interested in trades may want to keep an eye on future announcements.

For some migrants and students, the traditional image of success has often meant a university degree and an office desk.

But for others, the road to building a life in Australia may eventually begin with a hard hat, a toolbox and learning a trade.