By the Queensland Agricultural Workforce Network (QAWN)
Employing a trainee or apprentice is a great way to get a skilled worker into your business while earning incentives in the process. The Queensland Agricultural Workforce Network (QAWN)’s Kylie Jackson has put together a list of five simple things you should know before taking on the trainee or apprentice you are after:
- State funded eligible qualifications may receive up to 3/4 funding to support training costs. These are available through User Choice funding and Certificate III Guarantee schemes. More information is available at qtis.training.qld.gov.au
- There are many traineeship and apprenticeship qualifications available. To help find the right one for your business needs, visit training.gov.au. Alternatively you can contact the Back to Work officer for your region.
- Employers are entitled to allow a one (1) month trial period for both the employer and employee to decide if they will go ahead with an apprenticeship or traineeship. It is however a requirement to pay either;
- the minimum award wage at full rate if you are going to commence the apprenticeship or traineeship after the trial period, or
- trainee wages for the whole period where the apprenticeship or traineeship will be backdated to the initial start date.
- Employers are required to have a suitably qualified on-site supervisor with a Certificate II or higher that has the same qualification code for the duration of the traineeship/apprenticeship.
- Employers can self manage the apprentice or trainee and take responsibility for all HR requirements or this can be managed by a Group Training Organisation (GTO). If an employer opts for the latter, it is the GTO that will get the government incentives.
For more information contact your local Apprenticeship Centre www.apprenticeshipsupport.com.au or call your regional QAWN officer.