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?
Once you have agreed to taking on a new apprentice (to find someone, consider contacting a Group Training Organisation (GTO), local school, TAFE, or your own network of family and friends), you will need to contact an Apprentice Connect Australia Provider (ACAP) who will organise and lodge a contract with the Department of Training and Workforce Development’s Apprenticeship Office. This is a legally binding contract, outlining the details of your apprenticeship. This will include the qualification your apprentice will work to gain, their hours of work and the length of the contract or apprenticeship. The contract will protect both employer and apprentice. The Apprenticeship Office will administer the contract and can assist with any changes to the contract or disputes. When arranging the contract with your nominated ACAP, you can select a suitable RTO to deliver off-the-job training for your apprentice. The RTO will contact you to arrange a training schedule. Once the paperwork is all done, you can welcome your apprentice on board.
The benefits of hiring an apprentice
Apprentices offer an extra pair of hands to assist with the workload. Your investment in your apprentice’s training means you can teach them your business’s way of doing things from the beginning. There are significant government incentives to offset the cost of an apprentice. Hiring an apprentice is a cost-effective way to build your team and the services your business can offer. When you hire an apprentice, you reduce the skills shortage and help build a sustainable future for the WA building and construction industry. Giving someone the opportunity to pass on knowledge to and grow their skills is a rewarding 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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