A new Australian Apprenticeships Incentive System (replacing the current Australian Apprenticeships Incentive Program) will commence from July 1st, to provide financial assistance to employers of Australian Apprentices and to Australian Apprentices themselves.
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:
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 $3,500 paid in two equal six-monthly instalments ($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. The incentive is provided on a pro-rata basis for part time apprentices or trainees, including school-based.
For Apprentices and Trainees:
Australian Apprentices may also be eligible for The Australian Apprenticeship Training Support Payment which 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. Apprentices or Trainees must be undertaking a Certificate III or above in a priority occupation. Further eligibility may apply.
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.