The free trades training for the next two and a half years

The Targeted Training and Apprenticeships Fund will pay costs for anyone wanting to undertake vocational education and training.

The 320-million dollar fund focuses on courses which will likely lead to employment -- such as courses and training in construction, agriculture and community work

Federated Farmers Dairy Chairperson Chris Lewis says the support comes at a good time.

He says dairy farms are currently looking for thousands of skilled employees to join them before calving season starts in four to eight weeks.