Mike is joined by Joe Visser, labourer & writer, to discuss his recent article in the Sydney Morning Herald about the challenges faced by laborers, where he highlights the financial pressures and lack of support for apprenticeships in the construction industry.

Joe critiques the emphasis on university education over vocational paths, noting the mismatch between education and accessibility, while contractors’ reluctance to nurture apprentices contributes to high dropout rates, exacerbating the shortage of skilled workers.

Skilled migration is proposed as a solution, but it overlooks existing talent within the country, says Joe.

Older, experienced laborers often fill the skills gap but face barriers to formal training.

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