Apprentice Wages in NSW: A Comprehensive Guide

Starting an apprenticeship is always a smart move. You’re earning while learning, receiving hands-on training and gaining experience, and you’re setting yourself up for a long-term career. But now that you’ve decided on an apprenticeship journey, the next big question is, “How much is the apprentice pay?”

Apprentice wages in NSW aren’t one-size-fits-all. Your pay depends on things like your age, which year of your apprenticeship you’re in, your trade, and which award or agreement covers your role. 

This article will give you a breakdown, so you know what to expect from day one.

How NSW Apprentice Wages are Set

Apprentice pay in New South Wales is governed by national laws, but how those laws are applied differs depending on your specific situation. The main pieces that determine your wage include:

• The Fair Work Act 2009 which sets the minimum conditions for all Australian workers
• The Modern Award for your trade
• Any applicable enterprise agreements that specific to some workplaces
• Your age and schooling level when you started
• How far along you are in your apprenticeship.

On top of base wages, many apprentices in NSW also receive:

• Tool allowances
• Travel allowances (if you’re sent to a remote worksite)
• Meal or uniform allowances
• Penalty rates for overtime, weekends, and public holidays.

What Do Apprentice Wages in NSW Look Like?

As of 1 July 2025, award minimum wages including those for apprentices have increased 3.5%. This puts many 1st year apprentices starting around $470–620 per week, depending on the award they’re under plus other factors we’ve mentioned above.

Apprentice pay increases each year, either by time served (e.g. after 12 months) or by competency (e.g. once specific training milestones are achieved).

Here’s a rough estimate of apprentice wage progression in common NSW trades like automotive, construction, and electrotechnology (excluding additional allowances).

In certain industries like electrotechnology or automotive, apprentices may also be eligible for receiving extra site-based allowances, tool allowances, or travel allowances, depending on the award conditions and the type of work environment.

These are especially common under awards like the Electrical, Electronic and Communications Contracting Award 2020 or the Vehicle Repair, Services and Retail Award 2020.

Exact wage figures and entitlements can be checked through the Fair Work Pay and Conditions Tool or by referencing the pay guides linked on the Fair Work Apprentice Pay page.

Adult Apprentice Wages in NSW

If you’re 21 or older when you start your apprenticeship, you’re classified as an adult apprentice, and it usually means higher wages.

Under most awards, adult apprentices start on at least the national minimum wage, which from 1 July 2025, is $948 per week or $24.95 per hour (based on a 38-hour work week). Depending on the award or enterprise agreement and the relevant skills or previous experience you bring, your pay may be higher.

Adult apprentices are also entitled to paid leave, training time, and safe work conditions — just like their junior counterparts. Employers are required to adhere to legal obligations outlined by NSW Training Services, including providing structured training time and a qualified supervisor.

Which Trades are In Demand in NSW?

There is a strong demand for skilled workers in NSW, especially in industries such as carpentry, electrotechnology, automotive mechanics, plumbing, and civil construction.

If you’re eyeing a specific trade, take a look at the Explore Salaries page to compare wage expectations across roles. You can also explore current roles in:

• Automotive Apprenticeships
• Electrotechnology Apprenticeships
• Certificate III in Business for those going into admin or customer service apprenticeships.

School-based and Part-time Apprenticeships in NSW

For high school students interested in getting a head start on their careers, a school-based apprenticeship or traineeship (SBAT) is the right path. These allow you to begin an apprenticeship or traineeship while completing your HSC. It combines structured learning with paid on-the-job experience.

A school-based apprenticeship in NSW is designed for senior secondary students (typically from Year 10 or 11 onward) and involves a mix of:

• Paid part-time employment with a registered employer
• Formal training with a TAFE or approved RTO
• Units of study that count toward HSC and possible post-school qualifications.

Unlike full-time apprenticeships, school-based arrangements are part-time while you’re still in school. During your HSC years, you’ll complete the first stage of your apprenticeship training, and after graduation, transition into full-time employment and training to finish your qualification.

School-based apprentices are paid pro-rata under the relevant award, based on the number of hours you work. All award protections (e.g. penalty rates, allowances, leave entitlements) still apply.

Learn more about how you can get started with an Australian School-based Apprenticeship and Traineeship.

Ready to Find the Right Apprenticeship?

Thinking of taking the next step? Contact 1300apprentice for help!

If you’re just leaving school or changing careers later in life, your apprenticeship is more than just a job — it’s the first step in building a future.

Our team works with employers across NSW to match upcoming apprentices with the right opportunity. Check out:

• All apprenticeship opportunities
• Information for employers who want to hire.

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