Government going halves on 100,000 new apprenticeship positions

The Morrison Government is backing trades to play a big role in Australia’s economic recovery, offering a 50 per cent wage subsidy on new apprenticeships, effective immediately.

Prime Minister Scott Morrison said the Federal Government has been focused on supporting and creating jobs as well as identifying the skills needed in the economic rebuild.

“Whether it’s the manufacturing, housing and construction, arts or mining sectors – this new wage subsidy gives businesses certainty to hire and provides a career path to aspiring, young tradies,” the Prime Minister said.

The subsidy will be available to employers of any size or industry, Australia-wide who engage an Australian apprentice or trainee from 5 October 2020 until the 100,000 cap is reached.

Recommencing apprenticeships included

Under the new measure, employers will be eligible for 50 per cent of the wages for a new or recommencing apprentice or trainee for the period up to 30 September 2021, up to $7,000 per quarter.

This assistance will support 100,000 new apprentices across Australia, and is in addition to the Supporting Apprentices and Trainees wage subsidy which is helping small and medium businesses to keep their apprentices and trainees in work and training.

For more information read the Boosting Apprenticeships Commencements fact sheet.

For further information on how to apply for the subsidy, including information on eligibility, contact an Australian Apprenticeship Support Network provider.

Additional information

Additional information regarding the Boosting Apprenticeship Commencements wage subsidy – including maximum payment amounts – is provided in the Questions and Answers factsheet.

Final detailed eligibility requirements will be outlined in the program guidelines.

More information on the measure is available at: https://www.employment.gov.au/boosting-apprenticeship-commencements