Alan McDonald: Employers and Manufacturers' Association Head of Advocacy on the focus on trades in Budget 2026

There’s a view the Government's restoring the balance between university and vocational pathways.  The Budget doubles Trades Academy places from 10,000 to 20,000 over four years, giving more secondary students access to training while at school.  Employers and Manufacturers' Association Head of Advocacy Alan McDonald told Mike Hosking it’s a full-circle moment – recognising how vital trades are in a tech-driven economy.  He says AI can't build houses, and so many young people are coming into the workforce not ready.  McDonald says the new Industry Skills Boards will help direct training to where demand is, as part of their role is to work with businesses and polytechs to ensure current and future gaps are filled.  LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.