What is an apprenticeship?

Australian Apprenticeships were introduced in 1998 to establish a single integrated system of employment and training incorporating the previously separate apprenticeship and traineeship systems. Australian Apprenticeships cover all occupations where a training agreement applies. (The title was changed from New Apprenticeships in 2006). In some States and Territories Australian Apprenticeships continue to be called apprenticeships and traineeships. Where the terminology “Australian Apprenticeships” is applied it covers both apprentices and trainees.

What do Australian Apprenticeships offer?
Australian Apprenticeships offer training for a qualification combined with employment that can even begin at school with ‘school-based’ apprenticeships. Australian Apprenticeships are available in a wide range of occupations across most industry sectors. The apprentice or trainee is employed while undertaking training under a training agreement. An Australian Apprenticeship allows the employer to tailor training and the skills acquired to the needs of their business.

How are Australian Apprenticeships different?
Traditionally apprenticeships have usually been three to four years in length. Australian Apprenticeships are ‘competency based’, the time for completion depends on the industry, the occupation or trade, any previous training the apprentice or trainee may have had and how quickly they can learn the skills of the apprenticeship or traineeship.

Apprentices covered by the Metal, Engineering and Associated Industries Award now progress through their apprenticeship according to the achievement of competencies. Ai Group has produced a publication to guide members in working with these new arrangements. For updated copies of the Guide to Managing Your Apprentice contact the Education and Training Adviser in your state or download the latest version here.

What is the training agreement?
The apprentice or trainee and the employer enter into a training contract that identifies the qualification the apprentice or trainee is expected to achieve and the obligations of the parties.  Ai Group members can get free advice and assistance from Ai Group's MAS National Australian Apprenticeship Centre.

Are Australian Apprenticeships only available for full time employees?
Australian Apprenticeships are also available for young people enrolled at school. These are known as school based Australian apprenticeships and allow students to undertake an Australian Apprenticeship as part of their education. Students, typically years 11 and 12, can study for their Senior Certificate or equivalent and at the same time undertake government approved and accredited training qualifications as a paid employee. This means that training is combined with part time employment allowing students to learn new skills and utilise them in a working environment. Wages and other entitlements are generally pro rata.

For further information on any of the above contact your nearest Education and Training Adviser or Ai Group Training Services, Ai Group's MAS National's Australian Apprenticeship Centre free service or your local Australian Apprenticeship Centre.