Australian Government Financial Incentives

The Australian Apprentices Incentives System aims to contribute to the development of a highly skilled and relevant Australian workforce. It aims to support ongoing economic sustainability and competitiveness. 

The Australian Apprenticeships Incentive System (AAIS) offers incentives to employers, particularly those industries experiencing skills shortages.

In its first phase, from 1 July 2022 to 30 June 2024, the Australian Apprenticeships Incentive System will provide wage subsidies for eligible employers in priority occupations. Priority occupations are those listed on the  Australian Apprenticeship Priority List.

• For employers of new or recommencing Australian Apprentices undertaking a Certificate III or higher qualification in a Priority Occupation, 10 per cent of wages for first and second year apprentices (up to $1,500 per quarter) and 5 per cent of wages for third year apprentices (up to $750 per quarter).
• For employers of Australian Apprentices not in a Priority Occupation, a hiring incentive of (max) $3,500 paid in two equal six-monthly instalments (max $1,750 each) after commencement is available. This is for new or recommencing Australian Apprentices undertaking a Certificate II or higher qualification in an occupation that is not on the Australian Apprenticeship Priority List OR in a Certificate II qualification in an occupation on the Australian Apprenticeships Priority List.

For more information on incentives available to employers and apprentices in the new Australian Apprenticeships Incentive System (AAIS), refer to the AAIS factsheet, AAIS Frequently Asked Questions,

Employers claiming incentives for an apprentice or trainee who commenced before 1 July 2022 will continue to be supported under the current Australian Apprenticeships Incentives Program.

Further Incentives for your Apprentice or Trainee

Australian Apprenticeship Training Support Payment

In addition to employer incentives, apprentices working in a priority occupation (Certificate III or above) can be eligible for The Australian Apprenticeship Training Support Payment to assist them with living and work expenses. This is paid in arrears in six monthly instalments for a maximum of two years, at the rate of $1,250 per payment ($5,000 in total) or $625 per payment ($2,500 in total) for part-time Australian Apprentices. Further eligibility may apply.

Further non-financial incentives may be available to support your apprentice or trainee, including a living away from home allowance and, for certain apprenticeships, trade support loans to assist them to purchase work-related tools or equipment, or a car for work travel.

State Government Financial Incentives

Western Australia:

Jobs and Skills WA Employer Incentive of up to $8,500 is available to employers who employ an
apprentice or new entrant trainee and who have lodged the training contract for registration on or after July 2019. 

There is also a Travel and Accommodation Allowance available for apprentices to assist them complete their off-the-job training (variable rate).

More information regarding incentives can be found at Jobs and Skills WA Department of Training and Workforce Development  

Queensland:

Up to $20,000 is available to employers through the Back to Work Employer Support Payments For eligibile jobseekers in regional areas of Queensland and parts of South-East Queensland. More information can be found here.  

Workplace modifications can also be claimed by employers when employing a new apprentice or trainee with disability. More info.

For apprentices who need to travel 100km or more (return) to attend training, a travel and accommodation subsidy is also available. More info.

State Governments may also offer further incentives including:

• Payroll tax rebates or exemptions for apprentices and trainees
• Workers compensation premium reductions or exemptions

We can advise your eligibility for assistance

The Apprenticeship Community can assist you in regards to any incentives available when commencing your apprentice or trainee.

For more information, contact us today via our online form below.