BIA Victoria - Employer Resources
Employer Resources
There's never been a better time to employ an Australian Apprentice!
Recently both State and Federal Governments have announced the introduction of a number of new financial incentives aimed at encouraging businesses to employ and train staff in traditional trade apprenticeships.
From 1 July 2006, the Victorian Government has been providing funding to train existing employees into trade apprenticeships. Occupations that attract funding include traditional trades such as welder, electrician, carpenter and joiner and cabinetmaker along with boat builder and repairer, furniture upholsterer and toolmaker. See www.australia.gov.au/skillsforthefuture for a full list of qualifying trades.
Coupled with this, the State Government introduced a Trade Bonus of $500 to be paid to each apprentice who commenced in their trade after 1 January 2006.
Recently, Prime Minister John Howard announced additional funding to be introduced in 2007 to support mid-career workers (aged 30 years or more) to upgrade their skills through an apprenticeship in a trade occupation in high demand.
From 1 July 2007 payments will be made to either the employer or apprentice (depending on award arrangements) and will be set at $150 a week in the first year and $100 a week in the second year.
Follow-up: For more information on any of these incentives, contact BIA Victoria's Project Manager, Christopher Keegan (ck@biavic.com.au)
