Ms Costello had worked for 10 years at McDonald's but wanted to switch career paths so is part way through a 12-month traineeship completing a certificate III in business at Federation University and working at Bacchus Marsh Grammar.

"I really wanted to go into something different. I haven't been to uni or anything and this was a really good opportunity to train as well as still working full time and earning money," she said.

Ms Salter, who finished year 12 last year, knew she wanted to gain skills but wasn't sure she wanted to go to university, but a certificate III in finance and administration through Western Vic Staffing Services combined with working at Buninyong Primary is helping her decide

"I didn't know if I wanted to go to uni but I wanted some good experience to get me out there," she said. "Learning these business skills is good for anything I do in the future, it's something I can use anywhere."

They've had to adapt, along with their employers, to the requirements of stage three lockdowns which has made their jobs and training a little different than expected.

Hundreds of extra traineeships will now be available throughout the state with the Victorian Apprenticeship Recovery Package launched on Friday to provide at least 300 new apprentice and trainee places throughout the public service and local government.

With spiralling youth unemployment because of the COVID-19 economic slowdown, the investment in youth training and jobs has been welcomed.

The new positions will be advertised through the Apprenticeship Employment Network, local job centres, government and council websites..

"The Apprenticeship Employment Network is very pleased with this significant funding announcement that recognises the value of educating young people while they're in a working environment. We know that secure, on-the-job apprenticeships and traineeships are vital to developing skills unique to specific qualifications, vocations and industries," said AEN executive director Gary Workman.

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Apprenticeships and traineeships will be available in business administration and IT, landscaping/parks and gardens, automotive mechanic, building maintenance, plumbing, electrical, carpentry, child care, aged care, community services, sport and recreation.

"We know that young people often bear the brunt of major job shocks and that's why this is such a great opportunity," said employment minister Jaala Pulford.

"Young people can get a foot in the door, gain new skills and get on the path to a satisfying career."

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