Komatsu Australia Honoured with 2026 Australian Apprenticeships Leadership Medal

Komatsu Australia has been awarded the 2026 Australian Apprenticeships Leadership Medal, recognising the organisation’s long-standing commitment to developing skilled tradespeople and building inclusive, high-quality apprenticeship pathways.

Conferred annually by the Board of MIGAS Apprentices & Trainees during National Apprenticeship Week, the Australian Apprenticeships Leadership Medal is a unique honour in the sector. It recognises organisations that lead by example in the way apprentices are trained, supported, included and safeguarded, and whose sustained investment creates the conditions for people to thrive in a trade career and beyond.

MIGAS Chief Executive David Hoey said Komatsu Australia’s approach to apprentice development stood as a benchmark for excellence in the trades sector.

“Our Board of Directors noted the holistic approach Komatsu Australia takes to supporting their apprentices, as student and learner, but also as individuals balancing the challenges life throws up,” Mr Hoey said.

“Over many years, the organisation has made a profound and sustained investment in cultivating skilled talent, broadening participation, and building enduring partnerships across education, industry and the community,” he said.

Komatsu Australia currently employs more than 290 apprentices and trainees nationwide, spanning a wide range of disciplines including mobile plant, auto electrical, fabrication and electrical.

A major milestone in Komatsu Australia’s apprenticeship journey was the opening of the Komatsu Training Academy in Brisbane in 2016. The purpose-built facility provides advanced technical and safety training for apprentices and technicians, featuring simulators, laboratories and hands-on learning spaces designed to mirror real-world construction and mining environments.

The Medal was accepted on behalf of Komatsu Australia by Kate Pemberton, National Apprentice Development Manager, during National Apprenticeship Week celebrations which shine a spotlight on the vital role apprenticeships play in building the country’s skilled workforce.

“We openly acknowledge that our apprentices are our pipeline of future talent. They are the future leaders, tradespeople, and specialists of our business,” Ms Pemberton said.

“Their contribution plays a vital role in our long-term success, and this award reinforces the importance of continuing to invest in them.”

The Australian Apprenticeships Leadership Medal recognises leading trade organisations that transform emerging talent into highly skilled tradespeople, while fostering safe, inclusive and forward-looking workplaces.