Recognising the contributions of apprenticeships and traineeships

A young woman wearing a high-visibility vest and a blue safety helmet is on a work site drilling into a wall while a man in a similar outfit examines a layout document in the background. Superimposed next to the woman is the title 'Celebrating Apprenticeships and Traineeships'.

This month we're celebrating the role of apprenticeships and traineeships in building skills and confidence and strengthening our industries and economy.

Australian Apprenticeships provide a pathway for people to learn the skills they need for secure, well-paid work – earning while they learn. It’s important that we:

  • Recognise the contribution of apprentices and trainees.
  • Showcase apprenticeships as a respected and rewarding career pathway.
  • Highlight the role employers play in shaping the workforce of tomorrow.

A day in the life of an apprentice

What does a typical day look like for an apprentice? Meet Keleigh, an engineering apprentice working in New South Wales.

Support for apprentices

Following the success of the New Energy Apprenticeship Program that commenced in 2023, the program was expanded into the Key Apprenticeship Program in July 2025 with a dedicated Housing Construction Apprenticeship and New Energy Apprenticeship stream.

With the Key Apprenticeship Program Apprentice Incentive, eligible Australian Apprentices can claim up to $10,000 for a full-time apprenticeship and up to $5,000 for a part-time apprenticeship over the life of the Australian Apprenticeship Journey, according to the following schedule and rates:

  • $2,000 at 6, 12, 24 and 36 months and on completion (full-time).
  • $1,000 at 6, 12, 24 and 36 months and on completion (part-time).

Support for employers

In addition, employers are an important part of an Australia Apprentices journey. With the Key Apprenticeship Program Employer Incentive, employers training skilled workers in the housing construction and/or clean energy sectors may be eligible for an incentive payment of up to $5,000, paid in 2 instalments, during the first year of the apprenticeship.

More information

The Australian Apprenticeships website provides advice and resources to support your apprentice journey, and information for employers of apprentices, all in one location.

Correct at time of publication.