About Traineeships

Background

Traineeships were introduced in 1985 and were designed to complement the already existing apprenticeship system. Traineeships were developed to enable young people the opportunity to participate in a combination of structured off-the-job training and on-the-job workplace based training in non-trade occupations.

In 1998 the New Apprenticeships Scheme was introduced by the Federal Government and included both traineeships and apprenticeships. The aim of the scheme was to increase greater flexibility for both students and employers, a greater choice in the duration of training and choice of training provider for the off-the-job component. With the introduction of the new scheme some of the formal distinctions between apprenticeships and traineeships have disappeared. It is now possible to gain a trade qualification via a traineeships pathway and similarly it is also possible to obtain an apprenticeship in a non-trade field.

Duration

Traineeship terms vary but are generally completed over a twelve month period to two years. Traineeship terms are determined by the State Training Services and is dependent on the type of qualification and certificate level. Traineeships can be undertaken either full-time or school-based.

Traineeship Requirements

• Employment that is paid under a relevant industrial arrangement such as an award or enterprise agreement;
• A registered training contract with the State Training Services between the employer and trainee;
• On-the-job training relevant to the qualification;
• A training plan that specifies the units of competency required to be completed to achieve a nationally recognised qualification.

When you start your traineeship it is important that you keep copies of your training contract, approval letter, training contract ID number (TCID) and training plan. This documentation may be required when seeking support and advice regarding your traineeship.

Incentives You May Be Eligible For

Youth Allowance, Austudy or ABSTUDY Payments* – financial assistance for those on a low wage. For more information call Centrelink on 13 36 33.

Living Away From Home Allowance (LAFHA) (applicable in certain circumstance)* – A tax-free monthly payment for up to 36 months, paid as follows:

• $77.17 per week (first 1 – 12 months)*;
• $38.59 per week (13 – 24 months)*;
• $25.00 per week (25 – 36 months)*.

For more information contact an Australian Apprenticeship Centre.

Vocational Training Assistance Scheme (eligible trainees who travel over 120km round trip to attend day or block release training with their RTO)* – Assistance of $28.00 per day for accommodation and 12c per km for travel expenses. For more information contact State Training Services on 13 28 11.

Public Transport Concessions (new entrant trainees)* – Reduced travel fares on government transport once your training contract has been approved. For more information call Transport Information on 13 15 00.

* Benefits are subject to change at any time without notice. Please check with the appropriate organisation for the most up-to-date information on incentives.