Thinking of hiring an apprentice?

Thinking of hiring an apprentice?

What you need to know

• Apprenticeships must be formally registered with your state or territory training authority. A signed training contract between you and your apprentice sets out the terms of employment, including rights and obligations for both parties.

• Time spent at trade school counts as paid work and forms part of an apprentice’s ordinary hours (for example, 38 hours per week for a full-time employee).

• Employers are generally required to reimburse apprentices for all RTO training fees and the cost of prescribed textbooks related to their apprenticeship. Be sure to review the relevant Award, as additional reimbursement obligations may apply.

• Keep in mind that the minimum legal working age varies depending on the state or territory where the work is performed.

How to Hire an Apprentice

There are a few straightforward pathways to bringing an apprentice into your business.

• Source candidates yourself through your own advertising, networks, or word of mouth.
• Partner with an Apprentice Connect Australia Provider for guidance on contracts, eligibility, and incentives.
• Work with a Group Training Organisation (GTO), which employs the apprentice and places them with you.

You can also check “Out of Work” registers. Many states offer support services that connect apprentices seeking a new employer to complete their training — such as the Skills Connect Register in South Australia.