Considering an apprenticeship or traineeship? You’re looking at a fantastic opportunity to gain valuable hands-on experience, earn a competitive income, and achieve a nationally recognised qualification.
We understand that some career seekers may be concerned about initial wages, but the Australian Government has significantly boosted financial incentives to make commencing and completing an apprenticeship or traineeship more viable and rewarding than ever before.
Starting an apprenticeship is an exciting step, and the Australian Government is committed to making the early years financially manageable. A range of support payments and incentives are available to Australian apprentices, allowing you to focus on your education and training.
Here’s a look at key government support available:
Australian Apprentice Training Support Payment: Up to $5,000 for eligible apprentices in priority occupations over two years, paid in instalments. (e.g., $1,750 at 6 and 12 months, $750 at 18 and 24 months for full-time apprentices).
Key Apprenticeship Program (KAP): A significant payment of up to $10,000 for full-time apprentices (and $5,000 for part-time) in new energy and housing construction occupations. Payments are made in five instalments throughout the apprenticeship. This initiative aims to address cost-of-living pressures and boost critical workforces.
Australian Apprenticeship Support Loans (AASL): Access income-contingent loans of up to $25,983 (for 2025-26) to help with day-to-day living costs. Repayment begins once your income reaches a certain threshold, and you receive a 20% discount on your loan upon successful completion of your qualification.
Living Away From Home Allowance (LAFHA): If you have to move away from your parents’ or guardians’ home to start or continue training as an Australian Apprentice, you may be eligible to receive the Living Away from Home Allowance (LAFHA) to help you with cost-of-living pressures.
- LAFHA is a weekly tax-free payment that reduces as you progress in your training.
- In your first year of training, you would receive: $120.00per week
- In your second year of training, you would receive: $90.00 per week
- In your third year of training, you would receive: $45.00 per week
- Each year on 1 July, LAFHA rates will be adjusted in line with the March quarter Consumer Price Index (CPI) as published by the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS).
Low Income Health Care Card: Provides access to discounted prescription medicines and other concessions, helping to ease cost-of-living pressures.
Disability Australian Apprentice Wage Support (DAAWS): DAAWS aims to encourage employers to provide Australian Apprenticeships to people with a permanent or temporary disability who are able to participate in open employment with suitable support and training. The incentive is payable to an employer who employs an apprentice who satisfies the disability eligibility criteria. DAAWS is also available to employers who employ apprentices who become disabled during their apprenticeship
As an employer, you can receive $216.07 per week for a full-time Australian Apprentices, or on a pro-rata basis, according to the hours worked for a part-time Australian Apprentice.
More information about financial support is available from Apprenticeships Australia.
Important Note: Eligibility criteria apply to all incentives and support payments. We encourage you to contact Ai Group ATC directly to discuss your individual circumstances and determine which payments you may be eligible for.
Apprenticeships and traineeships are more accessible and financially supported than ever before. Take the leap and invest in your future with the confidence that you’ll be well-supported every step of the way!
Your Pay and Conditions: What to Expect
As an Australian apprentice or trainee, you are entitled to fair wages and conditions under an applicable award, enterprise agreement, or the national minimum wage and National Employment Standards. These frameworks ensure you receive the benefits you deserve, covering crucial aspects such as:
- Base Rates of Pay: Your core earnings, including any piecework rates.
- Employment Type: Whether you’re full-time, part-time, or casual.
- Overtime & Penalty Rates: Higher pay for work outside standard hours.
- Allowances: Such as travel allowances to help with costs.
- Leave Entitlements: Annual leave, sick leave, leave loading, and how to take it.
- Superannuation Contributions: Ensuring your financial future is building.
Your specific pay will vary depending on factors like your age, the industry you’re in, and the particular trade you’re pursuing.
Money-Saving Tips & Resources for Apprentices & Trainees
We also have a dedicated page with practical tips and advice for additional support and ‘hacks’ to help you succeed!
Inside, you’ll find information on government concession cards, discount travel options, and other cost-of-living relief measures that may be available to you. Even the little savings can add up, helping you manage expenses until you’re fully qualified and earning a great wage.