National Apprentice Week Australia is a time to celebrate the role of apprenticeships and traineeships in building the skills and strength of the workforce in the marine industry, according to the Boating Industry Association.
Boating Industry Association (BIA) CEO Andrew Fielding stated that marine trades are the backbone of the industry, relying on a workforce founded on experience, precision, and knowledge.
Fielding noted, “Last year the industry across Australia employed 35,000 people in a sector that turned over more than $10 billion. However, the workforce needs to grow to meet demand across a wide range of trades and skills.”
“Participation in boating is set to reach more than 6 million people by 2030, when there will be 1 million registered boats in Australia, alongside a similar number of watercraft not required to be registered such as small paddle and sailing craft.”
Continuing, he remarked, “The BIA believes that supporting apprentices is essential to the future success of Australian marine businesses. We maintain a strong focus on promoting Marine Jobs as one of our four key strategic priorities nationally.”
Fielding also launched the 2026 BIA National Jobs & Skills Annual Survey across its membership, which includes a range of professionals from designers to yacht clubs and trades from boat builders to riggers throughout all states and territories.
The 2025 Survey revealed a range of marine industry data, including:
- 93 per cent of businesses were concerned about the availability of skilled labour;
- 85 per cent were concerned about the shortage of apprentices;
- 45 per cent reported a consequent loss of revenue.
BIA will support the week from 9-15 February with a campaign promoting Marine Jobs.
BIA members and non-members are invited to complete the survey, which closes on Friday, 20 February. The survey link can be found HERE.
More information is available at www.bia.org.au, which includes links to the Marine Jobs website.
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