CTF Levy & Disbursements Guide

Table of Contents

• What does the Construction Training Fund do?
  • WA's construction industry and the CTF levy
  • Apprenticeship and Traineeship Grant for Employers
  • Upskilling and Short Course Funding
  • Other CTF Programs
• Section 1: The CTF Levy
  • Determining the value of construction work
  • The meaning of construction work
  • Work excluded from levy
  • Building and construction work in WA's resources sector
  • Final construction value - adjustment of levy paid
  • Refund of levy payment
  • Transfer of building permit
  • How to pay the CTF levy
  • Penalties for not paying the levy
  • Apply to pay the levy by instalments
• Section 2: Eligibility for CTF Grants and Subsidies
  • Who is not eligible for CTF grants, subsidies or additional benefits?
  • Eligibility for unemployed participants
  • State Government's Jobs and Skills WA Employer Incentive Scheme (EIS)
• Section 3: Grants for Employers of apprentices and trainees
  • Grant funding available to employers
  • Grant payment structures and claims
  • Eligibility and adjustments to the grant value
  • Group Training Organisations
• Section 4: Upskilling and Short Course Funding
  • Courses eligible for funding
    • Construction skills courses
    • Industry skills courses
    • Occupational licensing
    • Occupational health and safety (OH&S)
    • Higher qualifications
  • Online training
  • Who can deliver a CTF-recognised training course?
  • RTOs and course approval
  • Verification of competency
  • Funding for Construction Skills, Industry Skills, Software Skills and OH&S
  • Funding for Occupational Licensing and Higher Qualifications
  • How to claim the Upskilling and Short Course Study
  • Funding information for RTOs
    • Bulk-billing RTOs
    • Non-bulk billing RTOs
  • Accountability requirements
  • Additional benefits
    • Recognition of prior learning (RPL)
    • Try-A-Trade
    • Career information presentations
    • Pre-apprenticeship award payments
  • Accommodation Allowance
• Table of employer grants
• Contact us

What does the Construction Training Fund do?

The Construction Training Fund (CTF) is a Western Australian Statutory Authority managed by the Building and Construction Industry Training Fund Board (“the Board”).

The CTF administers the Building and Construction Industry Training Fund and Levy Collection Act, 1990 (“the Act”).

Under the Act, the CTF supports training and development of the building and construction workforce in WA through the Building and Construction Industry Training Fund Levy (“the CTF levy”). The CTF levy is applied to all relevant building and construction work undertaken in WA.

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WA’s construction industry and the CTF levy

The Act’s definition of ‘construction industry’ and ‘construction work' is taken from the Construction Industry Portable Paid Long Service Leave Act 1985(CIPPLSL Act). This includes construction, erection, installation, reconstruction, re-erection, renovation, alteration, demolition, or maintenance activities undertaken on-site.

The levy applies to all construction work in WA and is 0.2% of the estimated value of construction work above $20,000 (including GST).

The levy applies to:

• Buildings (residential, commercial, industrial, resources sector) 
• Non-buildings (civil, engineering, groundworks, fences) 

The CTF consults with industry to:  

• Assess and review training requirements of the industry’s workforce 
• Assess and review skills shortage areas
• Identify innovations in the industry
• Identify trends. 

This process helps the Board develop an annual Operational Plan.  

Section 8 (1) of the Act notes that the aim of the Operational Plan is “to improve the quality of training and to increase the number of skilled persons in the building and construction industry by the allocation of resources” from the CTF to programs that support: 

• Apprenticeships and other forms of entry level training for employment in the industry. 
• Supplementary training for those already qualified to work in the industry. 
• Training in technology used in the industry and in the occupational health and safety requirements of the industry. 
• The recognition, for the purposes of employment in the industry, of persons with existing skills, knowledge and aptitude appropriate to the industry. 
• The accreditation of training courses for employment in the industry or that are otherwise appropriate to the industry. 
• Innovations in training in the industry and research relating to the levels of competency in, and the training needs of, the industry. 

The Act requires the Board’s annual Operational Plan to be endorsed by the Minister.

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Apprenticeship and Traineeship Grant for Employers 

A range of Certificate II, III and IV qualifications are included in our employer grants program.

To be eligible, a training contract must be lodged with the Department of Training and Workforce Development (DTWD) and have an active status.  Other criteria also apply.

Qualifications from the following training packages are eligible:

*Does not include resources operational qualifications.

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Upskilling and Short Course Funding

A variety of short courses are recognised for a training subsidy. The course must be delivered by a Registered Training Organisation (RTO) in one of the following areas:

• Construction skills - training required for construction work performed on-site. 
• Industry skills - training required for skills that relate to a business that is directly involved in the construction industry and its on-site construction work, e.g., building codes. 
• Software skills - training required for skills that relate to a business that is directly involved in the construction industry and its on-site construction work, e.g., MYOB, BIMS. 
• Occupational licensing - limited number of courses leading to occupational licensing for individuals involved in on-site construction. 
• Occupational health and safety - for workers and companies required to perform roles on-site that specifically relate to construction work, including engineers, architects and project managers who are required to enter live construction sites.

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Other CTF Programs

We also provide funding for the following:

• Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) – for qualifications recognised in the employer grants program. 
• Higher qualifications – a limited number of qualifications up to diploma level for individuals involved in on-site construction.
• Pre-apprenticeship completion – for Certificate II qualifications leading into CPC apprenticeships. 
• Accommodation support - for apprentices in regional WA required to travel to attend block training. 

We also have initiatives to promote construction as a viable and attractive career pathway, including:

• Construction Futures Centre 
• VET Scholarship program – for four Certificate II qualifications.  
• Try-a-Trade program

How does the CTF determine eligibility for these programs? 

CTF policy reflects the purpose of the Act, is informed by the Board’s annual Operational Plan, and in consultation with industry.  

CTF programs support workers, individuals and companies that can demonstrate primary and substantial involvement in on-site activities (as determined by the CIPPLSL Act).

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Section 1 - The CTF Levy

The levy is calculated at 0.2% of the value of construction work (including GST) where the total estimated value of the work is more than $20,000.00.

The levy applies to construction work whether or not a building permit is required and must be paid before construction work starts.

The levy must be paid by the ‘project owner’ which is defined as:

• The person or entity that holds a building permit in respect of the construction work; or
• The person or entity that issued a contract to carry out the works; and/or
• The person or entity receiving direct benefit of the construction work.

Where a building permit is not required for works to which the levy is applied, the project owner must notify the CTF of the project and its estimated value and pay the levy before construction work starts. Examples where a building permit is not required include:

• Maintenance work; or
• Engineering construction work, such as bridges or roads; or
• Where the Building Act 2011 enables certain types of construction work to commence without the requirement for a building permit.

Penalties may apply if construction work starts prior to payment of the levy.

Determining the value of construction work

Schedule 2 of the Act notes the value of construction, for the purposes of the levy, needs to include:

• The sum of the value of all goods (including manufactured goods) forming part of the construction work
• Fees payable
• Overheads to be met, profit margin and GST
• Labour
• Services necessary.

Where the final value of the project has varied by more than $25,000, an additional payment or refund may apply. This is reconciled on project completion.  

All project owners must provide a minimum standard of information for construction work where the levy is payable. This information is collected when payment is made online via the CTF portal or by completion of a levy form if the payment is made via a Local Government Authority (LGA) as part of an application for a building or demolition permit.

If there is no fixed-price contract, the amount of levy due before construction works starts is calculated based on the estimated value of the construction works.

The meaning of construction work

The Act refers to the Construction Industry Portable Paid Long Service Leave Act 1985 in outlining the meaning of ‘construction work’ (Section 3 (1)) to which the levy applies.

‘Construction work’ means the following processes:

• Carrying out on a site the construction, erection, installation, reconstruction, re- erection, renovation, alteration, demolition or maintenance of or repairs to any of the following:
  • Buildings
  • Swimming pools and spa pools
  • Roads, railways, airfields, or other works for the passage of persons, animals or vehicles
  • Breakwaters, docks, jetties, piers, wharves or works for the improvement or alteration of any harbour, river, or watercourse for the purposes of navigation
  • Works for the storage, or supply of water or for the irrigation of land
  • Works for the conveyance, treatment or disposal of sewage or the effluent from any premises
  • Works for the extraction, refining, processing, or treatment of materials or for the production of extraction of products and by-products from materials
  • Bridges, viaducts, aqueducts, or tunnels
  • Chimney stacks, cooling towers, drilling rigs, gas holders or silos
  • Pipelines
  • Navigational lights, beacons, or markers
  • Works for the drainage of land
  • Works for the storage of liquids (other than water) or gases
  • Works for the generation, supply, or transmission of electric power
  • Works for the transmission of wireless or telegraphic communications; pile driving works
  • Structures, fixtures or works for the use on or for the use of any buildings or works of a kind referred to in subparagraphs 1 to 15
  • Works for the preparation of sites for any building or works of a kind referred to in subparagraphs 1 to 16
  • Fences, other than fences on farms.
• Carrying out of works on a site of the construction, erection, installation, reconstruction, re-erection, renovation, alteration or demolition of any buildings or work of a kind referred to in paragraph (a) for the fabrication, erection or installation of plant, plant facilities or equipment for those buildings or works.
• Carrying out of work performed by employees engaged in the work referred to in paragraph (a) or (b) and that is normally carried out on-site but which is not necessarily carried out on-site.

This does not apply to:

• The carrying out of any work on ships.
• The maintenance of or repairs or minor alterations to lifts or escalators.
• The carrying out of maintenance or repairs of a routine or minor nature by employees for an employer, or another person under an arrangement with a labour hire agency   who is not substantially engaged in the industry described in this interpretation.

Work excluded from the levy

There are some exclusions for the purposes of collecting the levy from the definition of construction work in Regulation 3 of the Building and Construction Industry Training Fund and Levy Collection Regulations 1991.

The main exclusions from application of the levy are:

• Work below $20,000 in value
• Agricultural work (does not include work for which a building permit is required)
• Government work undertaken by government employees
• Foreign missions and consulates
• Resources operational work (see below).

Building and construction work in WA’s resources sector

The levy applies to engineering construction works (that commenced after 1 October 2018) and residential and commercial construction works in the resources sector. Penalties may apply if construction work starts prior to payment of the levy and/or if the final construction values are not reported when there is a significant variance from the original estimated value.

The regulations refer to resources as:

• Minerals as defined in the Mining Act 1978 (WA) Section 8(1)
• Petroleum as defined in the Petroleum and Geothermal Energy Resources Act 1967 Section 5(1)
• Geothermal energy as defined in the Petroleum and Geothermal Energy Resources Act 1967 Section 5(1).

Resource sector exclusions

The following operational works in the resources industry are excluded from the levy, unless the work; is on, results in, or otherwise relates to, a residential or commercial facility:

• Work associated with exploration or drilling for resources.
• Work associated with exploration or drilling for the purposes of a geosequestration process.
• Work on or resulting in an unsealed haul road or track that is associated with a resources operation.
• Work on or resulting in a structure that is:
  • for the storage, treatment, supply, or disposal of non-potable water; and
  • is associated with a resources operation.
• Work on or resulting in a structure that is:
  • for the storage of tailings, overburden or waste; and
  • is associated with a resources operation.
• Work for the excavation or back-filling of soil or overburden that is associated with a resources operation.
• Work for the environmental remediation, restoration or rehabilitation of ground disturbed by a resources operation.
• Work for the closure or decommissioning of one or more resources facilities (including work associated with environmental remediation, restoration or rehabilitation).
• Work for the repair or maintenance of one or more resources facilities.
• Work for any of the following if the value in aggregate of the work, estimated in accordance with subregulation (3), is $10 million or less:
  • the alteration or renovation of one or more resources facilities;
  • the replacement of one or more resources facilities that have been or are to be closed or decommissioned; and
  • the relocation of one or more resources facilities.

Final construction value - adjustment of levy paid

If the final construction value has varied by $25,000 or more (including GST) from the original estimated value, the project owner must advise the CTF. Penalties may apply if the final construction values are not reported when there is a significant variance from the original estimated value.

The original estimated value was noted when the construction work was first registered in the CTF portal (‘Create or update a levy’). The final construction value can also be updated in the CTF portal.

If the final construction value is:

• $25,000 or more over the original estimated value, the project owner is required to pay an additional levy.
• $25,000 or more under the original estimated value, the project owner is entitled to a partial refund of the original levy paid.

Calculating the final construction value

The final value of the construction work must be calculated based on all elements included in the original estimated value of the project, as per Schedule 2 of the Act.

For construction work that required a building permit, the final construction value must include all non-building works performed as part of the contract not covered as part of the building permit, e.g. ground works, carparks, hardstands, hard landscaping.

The project owner is also required to account for inflation in the normal manner in calculating the final construction value, based on the following rates as nominated by the Board in accordance with the Act.

Refund of levy payment

If the construction work or project is cancelled or did not commence the project owner, or the person nominated on the levy form who receives the CTF receipt for levy payment, can apply for a full refund of the levy paid. Please contact us for the levy refund form.

To process a refund of the levy paid, we need some supporting documentation.

If a building permit was required, the project owner needs to provide:

• Proof of the building permit cancellation; or
• Notice of cessation in the form of a letter from the LGA or permit issuing authority.

If a building permit was not required (as per the Building Act 2011), the project owner needs to provide:

• A statutory declaration. Please contact us to access the statutory declaration form.

Transfer of building permit

If construction works are transferred to a new builder under an existing building permit, a refund of the levy may be issued to the original builder upon receipt of the levy from the new builder. This is dependent on the value of construction works completed at the time the transfer is finalised.

If a new builder is appointed with a BA19 form while the building permit is still valid and a refund has been processed to the previous builder, the new builder is responsible for paying the levy.

This is based on the estimated value of construction works required to complete the project, prior to commencing the remaining construction works.  

The new builder will assume responsibility for any adjustments to the levy based on final construction value.

How to pay the CTF levy

The levy can be paid through our secure online CTF portal. Payment can be made by:

• Credit card, with a 1.1% non-refundable surcharge applied by the payment gateway provider; or
• Electronic Funds Transfer (EFT).

We will email a receipt within 3 working days.

This receipt can be submitted to a Local Government Authority (LGA) as part of the building permit application.

Alternatively, many LGAs will accept payment of the levy (on our behalf) during the building permit application process.

Penalties for not paying the levy

Failure to pay the levy (for construction works to which the levy applies) or providing false or misleading information is an offence.

Penalties are:

• $20,000 for an individual person.
• $50,000 for a body corporate.

Where construction work is started before the project owner has paid the levy due, the project owner may be liable to pay 100% of the unpaid levy in addition to the original levy amount and any other penalties which may apply.

Apply to pay the levy by instalments

The project owner can pay the levy by instalments if the estimated value of construction work is $500 million or greater.

The instalment amounts are to be paid annually on, or before, the anniversary of the due date of the first instalment payment.

The project owner must notify the CTF of the intention to pay the levy by instalments in an appropriate timeframe before construction work starts.

Information relating to the construction works must be provided for the Board’s consideration and approval for payments by instalment and for the payment period to be determined.

If the project owner does not notify the CTF of the intention to pay the levy by instalments before construction work starts, the full amount of the levy for the construction work must be paid.

We strongly recommend referring to our Information Guide on ‘Paying the CTF levy by instalments’ for details on the application process and for the application form.

Levy instalment application process

1. Project owners need to register the construction work in the CTF portal,  through an existing or new account. We strongly recommend referring to the step-by-step instructions in our How To Guide for how to create an account in the portal. Alternately, project owners can contact us on (08) 9244 0100.
2. Read the Information Guide on ‘Paying the CTF levy by instalments’ and complete the application form. Email the application form back to the CTF.

Following the Board’s review of the application, we will contact the project owner to confirm the payment period, instalment amounts and the schedule of payments. The first levy instalment needs to be paid before construction work starts. This can be paid in the CTF portal (“Levy management”).

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Section 2 – Eligibility for CTF Grants and Subsidies

Eligibility for CTF grants, subsidies and additional benefits depends on an individual’s or company’s ability to demonstrate primary and substantial direct involvement on projects in WA’s construction industry, specifically in on-site construction, installation and/or fabrication activities.

Eligible individuals may be self-employed, or employees of a construction company, and must be directly working in the building and construction process.

To help determine eligibility, we may request a detailed, recent work history and/or evidence of employment.

For the resources sector - we may defer making payments of grants, subsidies and additional benefits to eligible companies and individuals engaged in WA’s resources sector construction works if the levy has not been paid on the relevant project.

We recommend referring to our Information Guide ‘The CTF levy and WA’s resources sector’ for more information.

Who is not eligible for CTF grants, subsidies or additional benefits?

• Local, State and Commonwealth Government departments, agencies, corporations and their employees.
• Companies and individuals:
  • Engaged in exploration for resources (minerals, oil and gas) or construction work associated with resources exploration.
  • That perform resources operational works.
  • Engaged in decommissioning resources facilities.
  • Engaged in rehabilitation of resources operations.
  • That manufacture, supply, transport or deliver building products.
  • That manufacture, supply, deliver or install non-building products.
  • That provide maintenance or repairs of a minor or routine nature after the construction phase, including companies that perform minor maintenance, repairs and/or inspection of elevators and escalators.
• Carpet laying or floor covering companies and contractors.

Eligibility for unemployed participants

If an individual is unemployed at the time of undertaking a CTF-recognised short course, they must be able to:

• Demonstrate that since the training, they have secured employment/work in WA’s construction industry. This evidence must be provided within 12 months of completing the training.
• Have written evidence of a relevant offer of employment (including commencement date) from an eligible construction company or contractor for direct employment in the construction industry.         

Unemployed participants may be required to provide additional documentation to assist us with processing the claim.

State Government’s Jobs and Skills WA Employer Incentive Scheme (EIS)

Employers who are not successful in receiving a CTF grant may be eligible for the State Government’s Jobs and Skills WA Employer Incentive Scheme (EIS). Full details on eligibility are available from the Department of Training and Workforce Development (DTWD) website.

If an employer is deemed eligible to receive EIS funding, then you are not eligible for CTF apprenticeship funding. 

If an employer is not initially eligible for CTF grants, we will refer the employer to DTWD for assessment against the EIS Criteria.

Eligibility for CTF apprenticeship funding is assessed when an apprentice/trainee reaches a milestone, such as a claim date. If you have any further inquiries, please contact us.

Exceptions

Although the definition of construction refers to ‘on-site’ activities, under certain conditions our subsidies for short training courses may also be provided to workers whose normal duties may not always require them to regularly attend site.

Service providers to the building and construction industry may be eligible for subsidised training in occupational health and safety.

The CTF has final determination on eligibility.

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Section 3 -  Grants for Employers  of apprentices and trainees

CTF grants are available to eligible employers that employ apprentices and/or trainees in specific building and construction qualifications. Apprentices/trainees must be employed under training contract arrangements that are registered with the Department of Training and Workforce Development (DTWD) and have an ‘active’ status.

The employer grant is intended to reduce the costs of employing and training an apprentice during the term of the training contract.  If the actual training term is less than what is specified on the training contract, the grant payable to an employer may be reduced.

A list of eligible apprenticeship and traineeship qualifications and the grant amounts available to employers is listed in the Table of Employer Grants. Eligibility criteria is also available on our website.

Grant funding available to employers

The following information is current for all eligible employers with apprentices and trainees that commenced on or after 1^st July 2022.

Base rate

The grant has a base rate which is determined  by the qualification and nominated duration of the training contract.

The base rate of the grant for each qualification is determined by the Board.

The base rate is available to employers of apprentices or trainees resident in the metropolitan area, which covers the region within an 80km radius of the Perth GPO.

Grant supplements

In addition to the base rate, we offer several supplements for eligible employers .

1. Regional apprentices/trainees.

An employer may be eligible to claim an additional  supplement of:

• 10% of the base grant for the qualification if the apprentice/trainee has a residential address in a region outside the metropolitan area and south of the 26th parallel.
• 20% of the base grant If the apprentice/trainee has a residential address in a region north of the 26th parallel.

2. Pre-apprenticeship/Certificate II Building and Construction (Trades Pathway) through WACE .

An additional incentive of $2,000 is available to eligible employers of new apprentices who have successfully completed a recognised pre-apprenticeship or the Certificate II Building and Construction (Trades Pathway) qualification as part of a Western Australian Certificate of Education (WACE) program. This qualification must be completed during full-time enrolment in a WA secondary school. Pre-apprenticeship/Certificate II graduates must be employed in a recognised trade within 12 months of completing the qualification for this supplement to be paid to the employer.

3. Employment of women

If the new apprentice/trainee is female, the employer may be eligible to claim an additional supplement of up to $2,000, depending on the nominated duration of the training contract.

4. Employment of Indigenous people 

If the apprentice/trainee is Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander, the employer may be eligible to claim an additional supplement of 30% of the base rate of the grant.

5. Employment of mature-age people

If a new apprentice is 21 years of age or over on commencement of the training, the employer may be able to claim an additional $2,000, depending on the nominated duration of the training contract.

Examples of funding employers can receive

1. An employer has taken on a new female apprentice with a residential address in Albany. The apprentice is undertaking a Certificate III Carpentry and Joinery (48 month) qualification and completed a Certificate II Building and Construction (Trades Pathway) qualification as a VET course.  The employer may be eligible for a $15,000 grant based on the following:

2. An employer has taken on a new 25-year-old male, indigenous apprentice with a residential address in Broome. The apprentice has undertaken a Certificate III Plastering (48 month) qualification and completed a pre-apprenticeship course. The employer may be eligible for a $19,000 grant based on the following:

Please note:

The potential value of the grant available to eligible employers may be affected if the apprentice/trainee:

• Completes the apprenticeship ahead of the nominated duration of the training contract; or
• Transfers between employers; or
• Does not meet required CTF milestones.

The potential value of the grant may also be affected if an employer is eligible for milestone payments under the State Government’s Jobs and Skills WA Employer Incentive Scheme (EIS).

Grant payment structures and claims

All claims for employer grants must be made directly to the CTF.

Typically, the total grant available is made to an eligible employer in three instalments of equal value.

1. Paid to an employer when the apprentice/trainee has successfully completed six months of continuous, full-time employment with a single employer;
2. Paid at the half-way point of the nominated duration of the training contract;
3. Paid upon successful completion of the full term of the contract. It may be adjusted if the apprentice completes the qualification ahead of the agreed nominal term in the training contract.

When applying for payment of each instalment , an employer may be required to provide supporting information relating to the employment and training status of the apprentice/trainee, such as a work history or current payslip.

Applications for employer grants should be made during the time the apprentice is employed. However, we may provide the grant to an eligible employer up to 12 months after the apprentice has successfully completed the qualification, or from cancellation of the training contract.

Eligibility and adjustments to the grant value

The CTF has final determination of eligibility and the value of the grant to be paid to an employer.

The potential total amount of the grant is determined by a range of factors. Please refer to the Table of Employer Grants for more information.

Adjustments to grant amounts

During the term of training contract (indenture), we may need to adjust the grant value which may affect the amount paid to an eligible employer.

Adjustments to grant amounts are likely to result if:

• There is a reduction in term from what is specified in the training contract; or
• The employer is not the original employer of the indentured apprentice/trainee; or
• The apprentice/trainee did not reach the scheduled payment instalment point.

To confirm that an apprentice has remained in continuous employment, we may request to meet an employer and apprentice on a current work site at any point during the term of the training contract.

Please refer to the Table of Employer Grants for a full list of qualifications and funding structures included in the employer grants program. 

Please also refer to Section 2 for general conditions for eligibility for further details.

Group Training Organisations

Group Training Organisations (GTOs) employing apprentices/trainees studying eligible construction apprenticeships/traineeships are also eligible to receive our employer grants.

GTOs can use this funding to reduce apprentice/trainee employment and training costs, effectively reducing hire-out costs to an eligible host employer.

To be eligible for grants under our GTO program:

• The GTO must meet the criteria contained in the Group Training Organisations Funds Management Agreement. Please contact us at info@ctf.wa.gov.au for a copy of this document; and
• The host employers of the apprentices and trainees must actively and directly involve the apprentice/trainee in on-site construction, installation or fabrication activities in WA’s construction industry. The CTF determines the final interpretation of this requirement, and therefore eligibility determination.

We reserve the right to determine eligibility and the value of the grant to be paid to a GTO for individual apprentices/trainees. Especially in situations involving a reduction in term, and/or if the GTO is not the original employer of the indentured apprentice/trainee.

Our grants are determined for each eligible apprentice/trainee employed by the GTO based on their qualification. These grants are paid in arrears on a monthly basis, rather than at set milestones, and while the apprentice/trainee remains employed by the GTO.

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Section 4 – Upskilling and Short Course Funding

Our Upskilling and Short Course Funding program provides subsidies to eligible construction industry workers (including apprentices and trainees) who successfully complete short training courses to  learn new skills for their work.

Subsidies are only payable to participants who complete the course in full.

Courses eligible for funding

Courses recognised in our Upskilling and Short Course Funding program must have direct benefits for the skills and/or knowledge of workers in the construction industry.  

The course must develop, maintain or improve skills relevant to employment in the building and construction industry and:

• Be directly related to the building and construction industry; and
• Be structured in terms of training and assessment methods; and
• Have no other significant objective, such as recreation.

Courses that are not recognised:

• Generic skills, such as general computer skills
• Motivational, or other personal development skills
• Seminars and conferences
• Courses resulting in a qualification higher than Diploma level
• Any program or course that is subject to the Higher Education Contribution Scheme (HECS) or are substantially supported by public funds.

Recognised course categories include:

• Construction skills
• Industry skills
• Software skills
• Occupational licensing
• Occupational health and safety (OH&S)
• Higher qualifications.

Construction skills courses

These courses are designed for the acquisition of practical skills and may result in a certificate of competency or a ‘ticket’ to operate machinery or plant. An eligible participant must be able to demonstrate successful completion of the qualification prior to claiming the training subsidy.

Courses may cover, but are not restricted to:

• Trade skills
• Technical skills
• Post-trade skills.

Industry skills courses

These courses should promote operational and business effectiveness within the construction industry.  Courses within this category support training relating to the management, business, technology, communication and semi-professional skills used in the industry.

Courses may cover, but are not restricted to:

• Communication skills
• Specification writing
• Business management relevant to the industry
• Project management
• Costing/estimating/ordering
• Relevant frontline management
• Contract formation and administration
• Negotiation and conflict resolution
• Supervision
• Tender and contract management
• Relevant computer skills
• Sales in the construction industry.

Software skills courses

These courses provide eligible individuals, builders and small contractors who manage building and construction businesses with the skills required to meet onsite commitments and compliance requirements under the Australian Building Codes.

The objective of the program is to contribute to the overall operational and business effectiveness of the industry. As such, the training should relate to technology, communication and semi-professional skills used in the industry.

Courses may cover, but are not restricted to:

• Microsoft Excel
• Microsoft Access
• Microsoft Project
• Microsoft Outlook
• MYOB and other accounting software packages.

Occupational licensing

Eligible participants that successfully complete all training components for a range of occupational licenses may claim a maximum subsidy of $550.

Please refer to the rates quoted in Funding for Construction Skills, Industry Skills, Software Skills and OH&S.

Occupational licenses recognised in the program include but may not be limited to:

• Electrical contractor’s license*^
• Restricted electrical license*
• Painter’s registration
• Plumbing contractor’s license^
• ACMA open cabling registration*
• Fibre optics*
• Coaxial cabling*
• Gas servicing.

^Maximum available funding inclusive of any components completed that contribute to other/full licenses

*Qualified, eligible electricians and apprentice electricians only

Occupational health and safety (OH&S)

The CTF supports OH&S training for workers and companies required to perform roles on-site that specifically relate to construction work.

This includes engineers, architects and project managers required to enter live construction site to inspect construction work and/or supervise work that is being done.

Higher qualifications

The following Certificate IV/Diploma courses are recognised for CTF-funding:

• Certificate IV Work Health and Safety (formerly Occupational Health and Safety)
• Certificate IV Project Management Practice
• Certificate IV in Leadership and Management (previously Frontline Management)
• Diploma in Work Health and Safety (formerly Occupational Health and Safety)
• Diploma in Builder’s Registration
• Diploma in Environmental Management.

Participants completing individual or component units of these higher qualifications can only apply directly to the CTF for training subsidies on successful completion of each unit or component.  

The maximum subsidy available for successful completion of these Certificate IV qualifications (or part thereof) is $1,300 (metropolitan delivery) or $1,700 (regional delivery).

Online training

Industry stakeholders have expressed concern about the validity of online training and assessment methodologies in some circumstances.  As a result, the CTF’s default position is that online delivery of training is not approved for funding, unless the course is specifically approved for online delivery or the course participant obtains pre-approval for online delivery citing exceptional circumstances (and subject to all other eligibility criteria being met).

The CTF conducts a review of the relevance of new courses not previously subsidised prior to approval for funding.

Online courses may be approved under our programs if:

• The qualification or training outcome is recognised and/or accredited by an appropriate accrediting authority; and
• The RTO can demonstrate robust assessment procedures for online training.

Eligible participants who have successfully completed a training course where online delivery is approved or pre-approved could receive a subsidy for up to 70% of the course cost to a maximum of $1,100.

Who can deliver a CTF-recognised training course?

Recognised training courses must be delivered in WA and:

• Under the authority of a Recognised Training Organisation (RTO) recognised by the WA Training Accreditation Council (TAC) or similar authority; and
  • By a person with a Certificate IV qualification in workplace training and assessment, or a relevant qualification in the case of non-accredited courses.

RTOs and course approval

To determine the suitability of a course for Upskilling and Short Course Funding, we require the following information for each course the RTO is seeking recognition for:

• A detailed course outline for training and assessment components, including:
  • Course content and how the content has been tailored to meet the needs of the building and construction industry; and
  • Learning outcomes and their relevance to the industry.
• Training and assessment methods, including:
  • Duration of the course; and
  • Accreditation details, if the course is more than 24 hours in duration; and
  • Target or recommended participant group; and
  • Maximum retail cost of the course being advertised and promoted by the RTO.

Verification of competency

We do not subsidise the cost of verification of competency (VoC) assessments. The only support provided for assessment is a subsidy for the cost of Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) assessments relating to trade apprenticeship and traineeship qualifications.

Funding for Construction Skills, Industry Skills, Software Skills and OH&S

Eligible participants can receive $31 per hour to a maximum of $248 per eight-hour training day, or 70% of the course cost as noted on the invoice issued to the trainee, whichever is lower) for a wide range of courses delivered in the Perth metro area.  

The maximum amount that can be claimed per person, per course, is $1,300.

Rebates for training delivered in Perth metro

If these courses are undertaken regionally, we can provide a subsidy of $34 per hour (to a maximum of $272 per eight- hour training day, or 80% of the actual course cost, whichever is lower) towards an eligible course.  

The maximum amount that can be claimed per employee, per course, is $1,700.

Rebates for training delivered in regional areas

Comparison of rebates delivered for training in Perth metro and regional areas

Funding for Occupational Licensing and Higher Qualifications

Eligible participants can claim subsidies for completed modules in their study towards a recognised higher qualification to a maximum of the stated cap.

Rebates for training delivered in Perth metro

We can provide a subsidy of up to $15 per hour (to a maximum of $120 per eight-hour day, or 70% of the actual course cost, whichever is lower) for recognised training courses delivered in the Perth metro area.

• The maximum amount that can be claimed per eligible participant, per Occupational Licensing course is $500.
• The maximum amount that can be claimed per participant for a completed Higher Qualification is $1,300 (or $1,100 online).

Rebates for training delivered in regional areas

If this training is undertaken regionally, we can provide a subsidy of $16 per hour (to a maximum of $132 per eight-hour day, or 80% of the actual course cost, whichever is lower) towards an eligible course.

• The maximum amount that can be claimed per eligible participant, per Occupational Licensing course is $550.
• The maximum amount that can be claimed per participant for a completed Higher Qualification is $1,700 (or $1,100 online).

Example for occupational licensing

Example for higher qualification

How to claim the Upskilling and Short Course subsidy

An eligible participant can claim an Upskilling and Short Course subsidy through the CTF portal.

Supporting documentation is required for all claims.

If an individual paid for the training course:

• Proof of payment (receipt from RTO); and
• Proof of successful course completion (Statement of Attainment and/or Certificate).

If an employer paid for the training course:

• Copy of the paid invoice/receipt for payment of training course; and
• Proof of successful course completion (Statement of Attainment and/or Certificate); and
• Invoice* from the employer to the CTF for the subsidy.

* If GST was incurred on the cost of training, GST can be included on the employer’s invoice to the CTF. If GST was not incurred, GST should not be added to the employer’s invoice. 

We must receive the claim within 12 months of successful course completion.

Funding information for RTOs

Bulk-billing RTOs

RTOs delivering CTF-recognised courses in the Upskilling and Short Course Funding program can apply for bulk billing status.

Bulk billing enables an RTO to offer CTF-subsidised rates to eligible participants, upfront.

A bulk billing RTO will determine the eligibility of a participant. Once eligibility has been established, the RTO will invoice the course cost (less the CTF-approved subsidy) to the participant. The RTO will claim the difference from the CTF when the participant has successfully completed and paid for the training course.

The RTO will include a reference to the CTF subsidy on the participant’s invoice, as shown below:

RTOs interested in becoming bulk-billers with the CTF should contact us at info@ctf.wa.gov.au for further information.

Non-bulk billing RTOs

Non-bulk billing RTOs offering courses which are recognised for subsidies under the Upskilling and Short Course Funding program are welcome to inform clients of a possible subsidy and direct them to our website.

The CTF has final determination of course approval for training subsidies.

Accountability requirements

The Board reserves the right to use the powers granted under Section 28(7) of the Building and Construction Industry Training Fund and Levy Collection Act 1990, to conduct an examination or inquiry considered necessary to validate claims made for financial support by training providers and persons undertaking subsidised training.

Additional benefits

We provide a range of additional benefits to construction industry workers.

Recognition of prior learning (RPL)

An individual that has successfully completed a RPL or Skills Assessment process towards a recognised qualification normally completed through an apprenticeship pathway may be eligible to claim up to $400 towards the cost of assessment.

Individuals should apply through the CTF portal.

General assessments and/or verifications of competency (VoC) are not recognised for CTF subsidies.

Please refer to ‘Eligibility for CTF grants and subsidies’ for more information.

Claims for RPL must be lodged within 12 months of the date of course completion.

Try-A-Trade

The Try-A-Trade program is available to Year 9 and 10 students throughout WA. The program is designed as a first step into a building and construction career by giving students a taste of different trades in a trade training environment. It is a practical, hands-on initiative that helps students make informed choices about possible career pathways in building and construction.

We fully fund the program and it is delivered through Registered Training Organisations (RTOs).

Each Try-A-Trade course focuses on two or three specialist trade areas, depending on the RTO. They include but are not limited to:

• Bricklaying, plastering and tiling
• Carpentry, wall and ceiling lining and painting and decorating
• Electrical and air conditioning mechanics.

The program is coordinated and delivered by CTF-contracted RTOs who deliver construction trade training to current apprentices.

Qualified lecturers deliver the training and, where possible, a CTF Industry Training Advisor delivers a careers presentation with relevant information about the next steps in their career and education.

RTOs interested in delivering the Try-a-Trade program should contact our Industry Training Advisor team by emailing ita@ctf.wa.gov.au

Career information presentations

Schools can arrange to have a CTF guest speaker address groups of students about the variety of career opportunities in the construction industry.

Our presenter can provide expert knowledge of the industry, the apprenticeship and traineeship system, the wide range of exciting careers available and share some great stories about career development.

Pre-apprenticeship award payments

An individual that has successfully completed one of the recognised Pre-Apprenticeship qualifications may be eligible to receive a payment of $250.

This Pre-Apprenticeship Scholarship Program award is available to individuals who completed their qualification through full-time enrolment with an RTO.

The recognised qualifications include:

• Certificate II Building and Construction (52824WA) streams:
  • Bricklaying and blocklaying
  • Carpentry
  • Painting and decorating
  • Plastering
  • Roof plumbing
  • Roof tiling
  • Wall and ceiling fixing
  • Wall and floor tiling
• Certificate II Electrical Mechanic Career Start (UEE code)
• Certificate II Plumbing
• Certificate II Refrigeration and Air Conditioning (MEM code)

Individuals who successfully complete the Certificate II in Building and Construction (Trade or Business Pathways), Certificate II in Civil Construction (RII20713) or the Certificate II in Plumbing (52700WA) whilst enrolled in a WA as part of a recognised WACE program, may be eligible to receive a payment of $250 from the CTF.

Applications for the $250 award can be lodged through the CTF portal.

We strongly recommend referring to our step-by-step instructions in our How To Guide for lodging a claim in the portal.

Claims for the pre-apprenticeship payment must be lodged within 12 months of the date of qualification completion.

Accommodation allowance

Our Accommodation Allowance program can help eligible regional apprentices and trainees to reduce costs they incur as part of their training.

The allowance provides up to $70 per day (to a maximum of $1,400 per financial year) to assist with commercial accommodation costs if the apprentice/trainee is required to travel more than 100km (200km round trip) from their residential address to complete their off-the-job training with an RTO. This is based on the shortest possible road distance from the apprentice/trainee’s usual place of residence in WA, to the closest approved training venue.

The allowance applies to weekday stays only and does not apply to extra costs incurred during the accommodation period (i.e., internet, linen, meals, etc).

To be eligible, regional apprentices/trainees must:

• Be registered full-time with the DTWD; and
• Have an active training status; and
• Be training in one of the apprenticeships/traineeships recognised in our employer grants program.

Making a claim

To make an accommodation allowance claim, eligible apprentices/trainees must submit a claim in the CTF portal within 60 days of the last day in the training period. The following will need to be provided:

• Tax invoice* from the accommodation provider and proof of payment; and
• Verification from the RTO of complete attendance during training; and
• Statement of contribution made by DTWD.

Please note:

DTWD will provide eligible apprentices/trainees up to $70 per night.

The CTF’s accommodation allowance is supplementary to that provided by the DTWD and is also up to $70 per night.

The final amount of CTF allowance to an eligible apprentice/trainee will be based on the amount paid for accommodation as shown on the invoice, less the amount of the allowance provided by DTWD. This means the CTF will cover the gap, if any, for the accommodation cost but this will not exceed $70 per night’s accommodation.

*If the accommodation cost incurred GST, then this can be included in the claim. If the accommodation cost did not incur GST, then it cannot be claimed.

Apprentices/trainees must submit their allowance claim through DTWD first.

We cannot process a claim for accommodation allowance until it has been submitted through DTWD. If a claim is submitted to us without proof it has already been submitted through DTWD, we cannot process the claim.

Examples

Please refer to general conditions of eligibility in Section 2 'Eligibility for CTF grants and subsidies' and the Upskilling and Short Course Funding program for further information.

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Table of employer grants 2023-2024.

Please note:

The potential value of the grant available to eligible employers may be affected if the apprentice/trainee:

• Completes the apprenticeship ahead of the nominated duration of the training contract; or
• Transfers between employers; or
• Does not meet required CTF milestones.

The potential value of the grant may also be affected if an employer is eligible for milestone payments under the State Government’s Jobs and Skills WA Employer Incentive Scheme (EIS).

Contact us

For further information, please contact us:

• For general queries: info@ctf.wa.gov.au
• For levy-related queries: levycompliance@ctf.wa.gov.au
• (08) 9244 0100
• www.ctf.wa.gov.au

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