“As the peak body representing the Australian upstream oil and gas industry, APPEA believes this announcement will assist our member companies in addressing the current skills shortage” said APPEA Director, Mr Don Sanders.

“The creation of the Institute of Trades Skills Excellence sends a very clear message to young people that vocational pathways which include New Apprenticeships are valued by the community and can lead to rewarding careers.”

The oil and gas industry provides a wide range of opportunities for training and progression through a many high-tech trade-based skills, Sanders said.

"APPEA member companies are currently working hard to ensure we have a well-trained and highly skilled workforce ready to operate the sophisticated processing plants of the future," he said.

“APPEA looks forward to assisting the minister in bringing the Institute and its commitment to skills excellence to fruition.”