Apprentice Wages in VIC: Weekly Pay Rates by Year (2026–2027)

Wondering how much you will earn as an apprentice in Victoria? You get paid from day one, and your wage rises every year of your apprenticeship. Apprentice pay is set by national awards, so the rates below apply across Victoria, and Victoria adds strong support such as Free TAFE for priority courses. Here is what to expect, by year, by trade and as an adult apprentice.

This guide should be read alongside our national apprentice wages page, which compares first-year apprentice pay across common Australian trades, and our NSW and QLD apprentice wages guides.

How Apprentice Wages Are Set in Victoria

Apprentice wages are set by federal modern awards under the Fair Work system, not by the Victorian Government, so the minimum rates are the same nationwide. Your exact pay depends on your trade and its award, your year of apprenticeship, your age and whether you have completed Year 12. In Victoria your training contract is registered with the Victorian Registration and Qualifications Authority (VRQA), and your pay progresses either on a time basis (each year) or as you become competent. Award minimums are reviewed each year and updated from the first full pay period on or after 1 July.

VIC Apprentice Pay Rates by Year (from 1 July 2026)

Estimated weekly pay for a full-time apprentice, based on 2026–2027 minimum award rates. These are the same ranges published on our NSW and ACT wages pages, because apprentice award rates are national.

Ranges are indicative and exclude allowances, overtime, penalty rates and any above-award payments. They reflect national minimum award rates effective the first full pay period on or after 1 July 2026. For an exact figure for a specific trade and classification, check the Fair Work Pay Calculator.

Apprentice Wages by Trade in VIC

Different trades sit under different awards, so first-year pay varies within the ranges above. The main trades we recruit for and their awards:

Electrical

Covered by the Electrical, Electronic and Communications Contracting Award. Electrical apprentice rates typically sit at the upper end of the ranges above and often include a built-in industry allowance. Confirm the exact current rate via the Fair Work Pay Calculator.

Plumbing

Covered by the Plumbing and Fire Sprinklers Award. Plumbing apprentices earn award wages that rise each year, with allowances for certain work.

Carpentry and Construction

Covered by the Building and Construction General On-site Award. Carpentry and construction apprentices are paid a percentage of the qualified tradesperson rate that increases each year, plus site and tool allowances where they apply.

Automotive

Covered by the Vehicle Repair, Services and Retail Award. Automotive apprentices earn award wages that increase with each year of training.

Over 21? Adult and Mature-Age Apprentice Pay in VIC

If you start an apprenticeship at 21 or older, adult apprentice minimum rates usually apply, which are higher than the junior rates and closer to the top of the ranges above. Mature-age apprenticeships are one of the most searched apprenticeship topics in Victoria, and it is never too late to start a trade. Adult apprentices may also be eligible for additional government support.

School-Based Apprenticeships in VIC

Victorian students can start a school-based apprenticeship or traineeship (SBAT) while finishing school, combining study, paid work and training. Pay is pro-rata for the hours worked, and the time counts towards completing the apprenticeship.

Free TAFE, Incentives and Support in Victoria

Minimum pay rates under modern awards generally apply nationally, but Victorian and Australian Government programs may provide additional training support for eligible apprentices and employers. Funding, payment amounts and eligibility requirements can change, so confirm the current details before relying on them.

Free TAFE and Victorian training subsidies: Eligible Victorians can complete selected qualifications and some priority pre-apprenticeship courses without paying tuition fees through Free TAFE. Free TAFE does not cover every apprenticeship course, and students may still need to pay for items such as tools, equipment, books or materials. Check the current Free TAFE eligibility requirements and confirm course availability with the relevant TAFE provider.

VRQA-registered training contract: A Victorian apprenticeship is formalised through a training contract between the apprentice and employer, which is registered with the Victorian Registration and Qualifications Authority. The contract records the qualification, expected duration, weekly employment and training hours, each party’s obligations, and the on-the-job and off-the-job training arrangements. Apprentice pay and progression are determined separately under the relevant award or enterprise agreement. Learn more about Victorian apprenticeship training contracts and check current apprentice pay and progression rules through Fair Work.

Australian Government apprentice and employer incentives: Apprentices training in eligible priority occupations may qualify for the Australian Apprentice Training Support Payment. Eligible employers may also receive a Priority Hiring Incentive, while higher payments may be available for qualifying housing-construction and clean-energy apprenticeships through the Key Apprenticeship Program. Check the current financial support available to apprentices, employer incentive programs and the Australian Apprenticeships Priority List Explorer.

In-Demand Trades in VIC

Victoria has strong, ongoing demand for electrical, plumbing, carpentry and construction, automotive and engineering apprentices, driven by housing, infrastructure and manufacturing activity. These trades offer secure, well-paid careers, and starting as an apprentice means you earn while you qualify.

Your Rights Beyond Pay

Wages are only one part of your entitlements. See our guide to apprentice rights and responsibilities for the full picture, including leave, safety and training entitlements, plus what is expected of you in return.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does a first-year apprentice earn in VIC?

A first-year full-time apprentice in Victoria earns an estimated $615 to $724 per week under national minimum award rates, before allowances and overtime. Electrical and adult apprentices sit at the higher end.

Are apprentice wages different in Victoria?

No, apprentice wages are not different in Victoria. Apprentice award rates are set nationally by the Fair Work system, so the minimum rates are the same in Victoria as elsewhere in Australia. Victoria adds support such as Free TAFE for priority courses.

Is TAFE free for apprentices in Victoria?

Victoria funds Free TAFE for a list of priority courses, which can remove tuition fees for eligible apprentices. Whether your course qualifies depends on the current priority list, so check before enrolling.

When do apprentice wages go up?

Award minimum apprentice wages are reviewed each year and updated from the first full pay period on or after 1 July. Your pay also increases each year as you progress, on a time or competency basis under your VRQA contract. The rates on this page reflect the July 2026 increase.

How much does a mature-age apprentice earn in VIC?

Apprentices aged 21 or over are usually paid adult apprentice rates, which are higher than junior rates and sit towards the top of the ranges shown. Additional government support may also apply.

Do apprentices get paid during TAFE?

Yes, apprentices get paid for their time at TAFE. Time spent at TAFE or a registered training organisation as part of your apprenticeship is generally paid, as it is part of your training.

Start Your Apprenticeship in VIC

Ready to start your apprenticeship? Call 1300 277 736 or register your interest with 1300apprentice today.