There is no doubt that the mining industry in Australia has slowed considerably, in the last 2 - 3 years. This industry slowdown doesn't mean it's the end of work opportunities it just means that you need to be looking harder, and be prepared for when those opportunities come up. This is certainly the case when you are looking for Mining Apprenticeships.

Getting into the mining industry is no different to any other vocation, it's all about having the right skills for the right job. Although it's not impossible, it is extremely hard to find entry into the mining industry with about have either formal training and qualifications or experience in some aspect of the industry. With figures showing that over 63 per cent of miners have a Certificate III or higher.

An apprenticeship can be an excellent way of starting your career in the mining industry and developing sought after skills, that can be used to further your career even to eventual travel while working.A great career pathway is through Vocational education and training, so if you have an interest or skill in a particular subject, you can be part of an mining apprenticeship or traineeship,

Here are some little known facts about Mining Apprenticeships:

• The mining industry spends 5.5% of total payroll on training expenditure, five times relevant government training benchmarks for the employment of 457 visa holders and the defunct one per cent national Training Guarantee Levy.

• Apprentices and trainees make up around 5% of the workforce of total mining.

• Around 20% of all apprentices and trainees are reported as being mature-aged (greater than 21 years old).

• Female apprentices and trainees comprise around 15 per cent of all apprentices and trainees, with the iron ore sector employing around 20 per cent female apprentices and trainees.

• About 13 per cent of apprentices and trainees are indigenous Australians.

• Apprentices and trainees are paid an average of $39,395.

• About 75 per cent of mining operators offer at least one form of national recognized training to their employees.

• Nationally, about 80 per cent of total mining employees participated in structured training.

Mining apprenticeships aren't just for young workers, there is a growing number of adults looking for a career change and are moving into Adult Mining Apprenticeships as well.

Even if you don't want to relocate to the mines and undertake an apprenticeship there, you can always complete your apprenticeship on the coast in a major city, then relocate to a mine for full time work.

The salaries can vary depending on what type of work you are doing and what mine you are working on, but first year apprentices can earn upwards of $40 000 per annum, for a qualified person annual salaries can be in excess of $250 000.

There are still a wide range of opportunities in the mining industry, and its well worth exploring the apprenticeship route if your looking to either start your career or change your career. Check out the Mining Job board if you want to see whats available.