Sydney Trains has inducted 96 new apprentices from all over the state, bringing the number of trains apprentices to an all-time high of 270.
Under the Government’s 1000 NSW Public Sector Apprentices and Trainees Program, there has been a 45% increase in new apprentices starting at Sydney Trains.
Apprentices at Sydney Trains specialise in trades, including mechanical engineering, electrical, telecommunications and signals.
Female participation in the apprenticeship program has increased by 50% in 2026, growing from 20 to 30 apprentices, and Indigenous apprentice numbers are up 50%, from 14 to 21, thanks to targeted recruitment by the Aboriginal Employment Unit.
More than 92% of Sydney Trains apprentices have successfully completed their trade training over the past five years.
At the 2026 induction at Clyde, Minister for Skills, TAFE and Tertiary Education, Steve Whan announced further support for apprentices across NSW with a 50% increase in the number of Bert Evans Apprentice Scholarships aimed at helping apprentices overcome hardships and complete their training.
“I am pleased that through the National Skills Agreement with the Federal Government we are able to support to more apprentices to stay in training, and deliver on the Government’s commitment under the NSW Skills Plan to increase apprentice completion rates,” said Mr Whan.
“Our 2026 Bert Evans Scholarship recipients represent the future of our skilled workforce. Along with our 1000 Apprentices and Trainees Program participants, they’re building careers that will keep NSW strong by ensuring we have a pipeline of skilled workers to continue delivery of essential public services.”
Sydney Trains’ mature-age apprentices Christopher Colenbrander and Ahmed Al-Mashhadani were hired last year under the 1000 NSW Public Sector Apprentices and Trainees Program.
Last week, they were awarded Bert Evans Apprentice Scholarships and will receive $5,000 per year for three years while undertaking their apprenticeship.
“Congratulations to our new apprentices and welcome to the ‘railway family’. With record new investment in systems, infrastructure and fleet, it’s a really exciting time to be working at Sydney Trains as we build the future railway,” said Sydney Trains Chief Executive, Matt Longland.
In its final round, the 1000 NSW Public Sector Apprentices and Trainees Program is now recruiting more than 400 additional roles across 73 agencies, taking the total jobs that will be offered under the program above the original 1,000 target.
“One of the biggest ever intakes of rail apprentices at Sydney Trains is an exciting moment that shows once again the commitment of the Minns Labor Government to rebuilding our rail workforce after the neglect and overseas shopping trips of the Liberals,” said Transport Minister, John Graham.
“These are long-term, skilled careers being built right here in NSW that will ensure our large train network becomes more reliable for the more than a million passengers who rely on it every day.
“These apprentices will be gaining their skills as we progress our agenda to bring train manufacturing back to NSW. The NSW Government will ensure new trains have at least 50% local content and will commence procuring replacements for the ageing suburban passenger fleet from 2027.”
