Bunnings Trade Backs Apprentices by Taking National Apprenticeship Week on the Road
Bunnings Trade has announced its support for National Apprenticeship Week™ 2026, joining the rapidly growing movement that celebrates Australian Apprenticeships and the employers who invest in skilling up the next generation of tradies.
Launched by MIGAS Apprentices & Trainees in 2022, National Apprenticeship Week Australia has continued to grow as a collaborative movement, with 2026 seeing over 30 organisations getting behind it to celebrate the role of apprenticeships and traineeships in building the future.
This year, activation sees truly national participation, with the “Give a Shout” campaign rolled out to TAFEs across all states.
As part of getting behind the initiative, Bunnings Trade will deliver Australia-wide activations throughout National Apprenticeship Week (9–15 February 2026), supporting the campaign’s “Give a Shout” initiative – a national call for employers to recognise and celebrate apprentices in their workplaces through a coffee shout, public recognition, or a social media post.
During the week, Bunnings Trade will roll out events at more than 30 locations nationwide, including visits to 15 TAFE campuses, where teams will host BBQs to recognise apprentices for their effort, energy and commitment.
“It’s thrilling to see government, iconic employers, training organisations and communities rally behind apprenticeships as a cornerstone of Australia’s economic future,” MIGAS Chief Executive, David Hoey, said.
“Australia can’t solve its skills shortage without bold leadership. This observance week was, in part, created to spotlight the organisations stepping up for apprentices, and Bunnings Trade is setting the benchmark for how industry can recognise, support and champion the value of Australian Apprenticeships.”
“At Bunnings we see the impact that apprentices make every single day,” Michael Schneider, Managing Director Bunnings, said.
“They're out there building homes, schools and community spaces. They're learning the skills that they need to polish off their craft and to help shape the future of this really important industry.
“We're an incredibly enthusiastic supporter of apprenticeships and every year thousands of apprentices participate in our PowerPass program to access affordable tools, PPE clothing and materials.
“Right across Australia there is so much unmet demand for skilled trades and apprentices are the key to keeping this pipeline strong for the years ahead, and is key to getting more Aussies into their homes,” Mr Schneider said.
Bunnings Trade supports tradies and businesses with tailored services, great pricing, and reliable access to tools, materials, and supplies across its nationwide network of Trade Centres and Warehouses. Through the Bunnings PowerPass program, dedicated trade teams, and streamlined account services, Bunnings Trade helps professionals operate more efficiently, manage costs, and keep projects moving.
Get Involved in National Apprenticeship Week
Employers, training organisations, and industry groups are encouraged to participate in National Apprenticeship Week by:
Honouring the achievements of apprentices and trainees
Promoting apprenticeships as respected career pathways
Sharing stories and experiences on social media using #NAWA and tagging @National Apprenticeship Week Australia
Accessing promotional resources and toolkits
Exploring partnership opportunities with National Apprenticeship Week Australia
For information about participation or partnership opportunities, visit the Supporters Hub or contact the NAWA team.
About National Apprenticeship Week Australia
National Apprenticeship Week Australia™ is an inclusive initiative by MIGAS Apprentices & Trainees that celebrates apprenticeships and traineeships as cornerstones of individual skill development and national economic strength.
Observed annually in the second week of February, National Apprenticeship Week Australia unites stakeholders across the apprenticeship ecosystem to acknowledge achievements, elevate career pathways, and recognise the employers and organisations who invest in developing Australia’s future workforce.
The theme in 2026 is “It’s in the making”, which highlights the potential of every individual to thrive as an apprentice through the transformative power of quality training and support. It recognises that successful careers are built through dedication, mentorship, and the sustained commitment of government, employers, and training providers working together.
About Bunnings
Bunnings is the leading retailer of home and lifestyle products for consumer and commercial customers in Australia and New Zealand. We are a major supplier to project builders, commercial tradespeople and the housing industry. Our store network is made up of 287 large warehouse stores, 66 smaller format stores, 28 trade centres and seven frame & truss sites. In 2020, Bunnings acquired South Australian retailer Adelaide Tools (now Tool Kit Depot), which now has 16 stores, and acquired Beaumont Tiles in 2021, which has 112 stores. More: Who We Are - Bunnings