Building your business and supporting WA’s construction industry
Hiring an apprentice is a smart way to build your business. Employers can provide valuable hands-on experience and opportunities to new staff, as well as pass knowledge on to the next generation of the WA construction industry at the beginning of their career.
This guide will explain the business advantages of taking on an apprentice, what employers need to know for onboarding and managing their new employee as well as CTF funding and resources available to employers. CTF’s funding programs are built to help employers bring more apprentices on the tools and boost the success of their business.
Apprentice Training
Apprentices will receive their theory and technical knowledge for their trade qualification from a Registered Training Organisation (RTO) and then learn how to apply what they’ve studied practically with you. Employers play a crucial role in the growth and sustainability of WA’s construction industry and invest in the future of your own workforce at the same time.
The role of CTF
By funding grants for both employers and apprentices as well as offering training and upskilling rebates, CTF is helping to keep the WA construction industry moving forward. Our support offers employers assistance to invest in the workers needed for a skilled and sustainable workforce.
What do I need to do to hire an apprentice?
- Find an apprentice
Contact a Group Training Organisation (GTO), local school, TAFE or leverage your own network of family and friends. - Set up the apprenticeship
Engage an Apprentice Connect Australia Provider (ACAP) to organise and lodge the contract with the Department of Training and Workforce Development’s Apprenticeship Office.
The contract is legally binding and outlines:
– The qualification your apprentice will work to gain.
– Their hours of work.
– The length of the apprenticeship.
– Protection for both employer and apprentice. - Administration and support
The Apprenticeship Office administers the contract and provides assistance with changes or disputes. - Training provider selection
When arranging the contract with your ACAP, you can nominate a suitable Registered Training Organisation (RTO) to deliver off-the-job training. The RTO will contact you to arrange a training schedule. - Final Steps
Once all paperwork is complete, you can officially welcome your apprentice on board.
The benefits of hiring an apprentice
Increased Workforce Support
- Apprentices provide an extra pair of hands to assist with the workload.
Tailored Training & Business Growth
- Investing in an apprentice’s training allows you to teach them your business’s way of doing things from the start.
- Apprentices help expand your team and the services your business can offer in a cost-effective way.
Government Incentives
- Significant government support is available to offset the costs associated with hiring an apprentice.
Industry Development & Sustainability
- Hiring apprentices helps reduce the skills shortage.
- Contributes to a sustainable future for the WA building and construction industry.
Personal & Professional Reward
- Giving someone the opportunity to learn, grow, and pass on knowledge is a fulfilling experience.
More funding available for hiring an apprentice
CTF offers a number of grants and funding programs to support employers in taking on apprentices. These financial incentives can help reduce the costs associated with bringing an apprentice on board, making it easier for you to grow your skilled workforce. Employers can use the Employer Funding Calculator to estimate how much they may be eligible to receive from the CTF Employer Grant.
What is the cost of hiring an apprentice?
As an employer considering hiring an apprentice, you need to understand the rates of pay and necessary employment conditions to make sure you comply with your legal obligations. For detailed information on pay rates and conditions, contact Fair Work on 13 13 94 or visit the Fair Work Calculator below. You can also check the WA Awards for Common Jobs for further guidance on employment conditions for apprentices in Western Australia.
Other support for employers hiring an apprentice
If you are an employer hiring an apprentice, you don’t need to go through the process alone. Whether you’re a business owner, tradie or employer, there are resources available to help you along the way.
Apprentice Connect Australia Providers: Expert support for hiring an apprentice.
Your first step is to connect with Apprentice Connect Australia Provider (ACAP). They are a free national service for employers and apprentices. ACAP services include helping you create your training contract, finding the right RTO for your apprentice, and guiding you through available incentives you may be eligible to claim. You can find your nearest ACAP here.
Mental health support
Working in construction can mean you’re exposed to high pressure situations, dangerous environments and long hours. It’s important to look after your mental health. This is why CTF funds mental health and wellbeing resources to ensure you and your team have the support you need.
Australian Apprenticeships: Essential information for hiring an apprentice.
The Australian Apprenticeships website is a great resource for employers considering hiring an apprentice. It offers information on how apprenticeships and traineeships work, as well as the support and financial assistance available from the government for apprentices, trainees and employers. Australian Apprenticeships For more information on the funding available to employers, please contact CTF.
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