Apprentices in certain trades are now in line for new training payments, of up to $10,000.
It’s a push to support the budding professionals in sectors with a high demand for skilled workers, and a commitment to clean energy.
Thousands of apprentices working in what the government deems as “priority occupations” are eligible for the $5000 Australian Apprenticeship Training Support Payment from July 1.
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If those priority occupations also offer exposure and experience in “clean energy”, apprentices are instead eligible for the more lucrative New Energy Apprenticeship Support Payment of up to $10,000.
The priority occupation list is extensive, ranging from aged care workers and arborists to bakers and beauty therapists, according to the Department of Employment and Workplace Relations (DEWR).
Those jobs are characterised by a strong current demand for skilled workers, and a strong demand expected in the future.
The “clean energy” sectors are similarly more varied than one might expect, with agricultural and agritech technicians, automotive electricians, regular electricians, gas fitters, glaziers, joiners, plumbers and welders all included.
For the Australian Apprenticeship Training Support Payment, the $5000 payment comes in four instalments over two years.
The New Energy Apprentice Support Payment is paid out over the course of the apprenticeship — up to $5000 for part-time apprentices and up to $10,000 for full-time apprentices.
“It’s available where employers can provide apprentices with meaningful exposure, experience and work in clean energy.”
The two payments are mutually exclusive, DEWR confirmed.
It is hoped the payments will incentivise apprentices to remain on the career pathway.
Payments will also be on offer for employers who hire apprentices in these occupations, under the Priority Hiring Incentive.
“It provides employers with up to $5,000 in the first year of an apprenticeship, paid over two instalments.,”
The full list of priority jobs can be found on the Department of Employment and Workplace Relations website.
More information about applications and eligibility can be found on the government’s Australian Apprenticeships website.