How apprenticeships work

How apprenticeships work for employers

Benefits for employers 

Hiring an apprentice is highly beneficial for employers as it:

• Presents a cost-effective hiring solution 
• Injects new enthusiasm and ideas into your business 
• Enables you to fill current and future skills gaps 
• Allows you to better the future of the Australian workforce and your industry. 

Read more about the benefits of hiring an apprentice or trainee

The process of taking on an apprentice

An apprenticeship is a contract between an employer and an employee where the employee undertakes on-the-job training while earning a qualification from a Registered Training Organisation (RTO). 

To get started, reach out to your local Mas consultant to discuss your requirements. We will then connect you to talent that will meet your business’s needs, or you can post directly on our jobs board. 

With our support, you’ll choose the registered training organisation (RTO) that best suits your needs, enrol your employee and sign a National Training Contract.  At this stage you will agree on hours and rostering, ensuring that the trainee or apprentice is able to complete their off-the-job training as well as their on-site requirements.

We’ll take care of the administration side of things such as ensuring that your employee is being paid in line with the relevant award/agreement as well as checking your eligibility for financial incentives.

 You’ll need to organise training to get your apprentice started on the right foot, and conduct an induction for their first day of work.

At any time you can reach out to your Mas Consultant for support. 

Obligations for employers 

By signing a National Training Contract, you agree to: 

• Comply with the relevant Australian Government and State Legislation
• Provide a safe work environment, provide an appropriate workplace induction
• Support structured training
• Participate in the development of a Training Plan
• Ensure a Training Record Log Book is maintained
• Ensure the State Training Authority (STA) is notified upon the completion of training
• Provide supervision and support in the workplace
• Ensure the apprentice or trainee feels free to raise any concerns
• Advise your apprentice of their entitlements
• Provide a comprehensive induction process.

These are just some of the legal obligations that employers have when hiring apprentices or trainees. While it’s a good idea to read the National Employment Standards (NES) and other legal obligations before getting started, our consultants will be with you every step of the way.

Incentives for employers 

As an employer, you can access government incentives to help you employ apprentices and trainees. This includes incentive payments under the Australian Apprenticeships Incentive Program (AAIP), as well as additional federal and state incentives. All incentive payments are subject to eligibility criteria, waiting periods and time limits being met. Get the process started by reaching out to Mas today. 

Download our Employer Guide or register as an employer with Mas today.