Trainees and apprentices can be a valuable and cost-effective asset to a business looking to grow.
And with the Boosting Apprenticeship Commencement program – a 50 per cent wage subsidy – extended until March 31, 2022, in the 2021-22 Federal Budget the incentive to take on a trainee has never been bigger.
But where do you begin when seeking to add a trainee or apprentice to your workforce?
CCIWA’s experts walk you through the practical steps you need to take.
Trainees and apprentices are eligible for the same workplace rights as other employees, such as sick leave and annual leave.
Familiarise yourself with the National Employment Standards.
You can also undertake the Recruit Ready diagnostic with CCIWA's Apprenticeship Support Australia (ASA) team, to help identify how prepared your business is to take on a trainee or apprentice, and the steps you can take to make sure you are ready to go.
Understand what your business needs and the resources required to undertake training.
You also need to be aware of your obligations as an employer of trainees, which includes specific time dedicated to training.
ASA can be a great resource for this. The team can come to you and talk you through appropriate qualifications that align with your skills requirements.
Looking instead to hire an intern? See our guide.
Once you’ve decided which roles are suitable for a trainee or apprentice, it's time to create an advertisement.
Make sure the ad includes as much detail about the position as possible, as well as information about your workplace culture.
ASA can assist with targeting your ads to people looking for apprenticeship or traineeship opportunities and provide support shortlisting and screening candidates.
Allow adequate time to conduct interviews.
- Complete a contract of employment. If you need a template, contact ASA for an employer starter kit.
- Establish which Registered Training Organisation your trainee will use for their off-the-job training.
- In their starter pack, give your apprentice a letter of engagement, which includes: a Fair Work Statement, copies of company policies including codes of conduct, tax and superannuation information.
- Book in ASA to sign-up your business and apprentice or trainee into a national training contract. The contract will then be lodged with the Federal Government as a formal record, and allow you to access Government incentives and support.
Welcome your trainee to the workplace by showing them around, introducing them to fellow employees and talking to them about the culture of your business.
Advise them on the company’s health and safety information and take the time to explain their role.
ASA is an Australian Apprenticeship Support Network provider, an Australian Government-funded initiative.
To contact ASA, call 1300 363 831 or email [email protected].
Your apprentice incentive options
There is a raft of financial supports for employers looking to take on a trainee or apprentice. Apprenticeship Support Australia outlines the key incentives for employers.
Your apprentice and trainee toolkit
From funding pots to online workplace diagnostic tools, recruitment support to first-day induction kits, Apprenticeship Support Australia has you covered.
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