![Victorian apprentice](https://www.australianmanufacturing.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2016/02/Victorian-apprentice.jpg)
Victoria’s Group Training Organisations (GTO’s) will share $9.3 million in funding over the next three years as the Andrews Labor Government moves to secure the future of the GTO program.
![](http://www.australianmanufacturing.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2016/02/Victorian-apprentice-300x225.jpg)
Announcing the financial boost for the Program in Geelong on Thursday, Mr Andrews highlighted the importance of GTOs in supporting people to develop the skills they need to get long-lasting and rewarding jobs.
“Apprentices and trainees are the backbone of Victoria’s training system and the future of our workforce. We’re giving them every opportunity to get the skills they need for the jobs they want,” he said.
“Group Training Organisations play such a vital role in supporting our apprentices and trainees to develop their skills and this funding means they can continue to do just that.”
Minister for Training and Skills Steve Herbert said the funding will help more than 17,000 apprentices and trainees over the next three years to obtain the skills they need for the jobs they want.
He said the funding was necessary to keep GTO’s afloat, especially after the Federal Liberal Government axed support for the GTO program.
“Group Training Organisations often train and employ Victorians who would struggle to get an apprenticeship through other means – so the Federal Liberal cuts were just cruel,” the Minister said.
“Our funding will make sure that these organisations can continue to provide support and job security to apprentices and trainees in the years ahead.”