Minister for Finance, Minister for Trade and Minister for Employment and Training

The Honourable Ros Bates

29 June 2026

MEDIA STATEMENT: Crisafulli Government congratulates Queensland Training Awards finalists

  • More than 200 finalists have been announced for the 2026 Queensland Training Awards. 
  • Celebrating its 65th year, the Queensland Training Awards showcase excellence across Queensland’s vocational education and training (VET) sector. 
  • The Crisafulli Government is delivering a better lifestyle through a stronger economy by backing skills and training across Queensland.

The Crisafulli Government is delivering Queenslanders skills today for a job tomorrow and celebrating the State’s top apprentices, teachers, trainers and employers who have been named finalists in this year’s Queensland Training Awards.

206 finalists have been named in their respective regions after a total of 715 nominations were received for this year’s awards.

Trailblazing apprentices, teachers, trainers and employers are in the running to be recognised as the State’s top talent at the 2026 awards, representing the very best of vocational education and training in the region and showcasing the people and organisations helping build Queensland’s skilled workforce.

The 65th anniversary of the Queensland Training Awards continue to honour the transformative power of skills and training across the State.

Finalists have been recognised across 10 categories, including the prestigious Harry Hauenschild Apprentice of the Year, Bob Marshman Trainee of the Year and VET Teacher or Trainer of the Year, as well as awards for top employers and community training initiatives.

Minister for Finance, Trade, Employment and Training Ros Bates said the Queensland Training Awards celebrated the people driving Queensland forward through skills and training.

“The Crisafulli Government is beginning to see progress in stemming the skills crisis we inherited from Labor, and it’s important to recognise and celebrate the people helping overcome those workforce shortages,” Minister Bates said.

“For 65 years, these awards have highlighted standout performers in training whose dedication, innovation and leadership are helping shape Queensland’s future workforce.

“Congratulations to all of our finalists and thank you to everyone helping build the Queensland of the future.”

Regional winners will progress to the Queensland Training Awards State Final in Brisbane on 19 September 2026.

For more information about the Queensland Training Awards, and for a full list of regional finalists visit the website.