Step into a trade, supported every step of the way
The Novaskill Tradie Ladies Training Program is a fully subsidised, four-week pre-apprenticeship program that helps women across regional NSW step into a trade. Novaskill, a not-for-profit Registered Training Organisation (RTO) and Group Training Organisation (GTO) established in 1980, runs the program to open construction careers to women in regions with strong building demand but real labour shortages.
If you are a woman thinking about an apprenticeship, this is your supported first step. We are currently seeking expressions of interest from women across the Newcastle, Lake Macquarie, Hunter Valley, Coffs Harbour, Grafton, Lismore, Ballina and Byron Bay regions.
What is the Tradie Ladies Training Program?
The Tradie Ladies Training Program is a four-week, women-only pre-apprenticeship that prepares you for a construction apprenticeship. A pre-apprenticeship is short, hands-on training that builds the skills, confidence and industry contacts you need before you start a full apprenticeship. Novaskill delivers it across the Hunter, Newcastle, Mid North Coast and Northern Rivers regions of NSW.
Who is the program for?
The program is for women in regional NSW who are curious about a trade and want a supportive, women-only place to start. You do not need any prior construction experience. You will learn alongside other women, hear from female apprentices already working in the industry, and meet local employers who are hiring.
What does the Tradie Ladies Training Program include?
The program runs three days per week for four weeks and includes the following.
- WHS White Card
- 3 nationally accredited units of competency (which may be used as credit transfers in certain apprenticeships)
- Guest speakers from current female apprentices and trade representatives
- Work experience with local employers looking for new staff
- Ongoing mentorship with industry ambassadors
- Employability skills training, including interview skills, resume workshops and industry research sessions
Tradie Ladies Training Program key facts
- Provider: Novaskill, a not-for-profit RTO and GTO established in 1980. 6996
- Duration: 4 weeks, running 3 days per week.
- Cost: 100% subsidised by the NSW Government. Some eligibility criteria apply.
- Eligibility: Open to women in regional NSW. No prior construction experience required.
- Regions: Newcastle, Lake Macquarie, Hunter Valley, Coffs Harbour, Grafton, Lismore, Ballina and Byron Bay.
- Intake: Currently taking enrolments.
How much does the Tradie Ladies Training Program cost?
The Tradie Ladies Training Program is 100% subsidised by the NSW Government, so eligible women pay no course fees. Some eligibility criteria apply, so ask our team for details about your situation.
When does the program start?
Novaskill is currently taking enrolments for the Tradie Ladies Training Program. The program runs three days per week for four weeks, and schedules vary by region, so contact us for region-specific dates.
Where to next after the program
Once you finish, Novaskill can help you move into a construction apprenticeship or traineeship as your next step. Learn more about what you need to know about apprenticeships, explore our other Novaskill community programs, or browse short courses at Novaskill to keep building your skills.
Tradie Ladies Training Program: frequently asked questions
No, you do not need any prior construction experience to join the Tradie Ladies Training Program. The program is designed for women starting from scratch, with mentoring and a supportive, women-only environment throughout.
The Tradie Ladies Training Program runs for 4 weeks, three days per week. Exact schedules vary by region across the Hunter, Newcastle, Mid North Coast and Northern Rivers, so contact Novaskill for your local dates.
Yes. The program includes a WHS White Card and 3 nationally accredited units of competency, which may be used as credit transfers in certain apprenticeships. These are recognised across Australia.
The program is 100% subsidised by the NSW Government, so eligible participants pay no course fees. Some eligibility criteria apply.
Register your interest in the Tradie Ladies Training Program
Are you a lady thinking about getting an apprenticeship? Register your interest below and the Novaskill team will be in touch about the next intake in your region.
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