Call Us: 1300 277 736
Contact Us
Find a Job
Popular searches

Apprenticeships in Wollongong and the Illawarra

Paid, hands-on trade careers with a not-for-profit Group Training Organisation that has employed apprentices since 1985. We recruit, employ and support you, and place you with a quality host employer across the Illawarra.

Register your interestSee Latest Jobs
car parts interpreter

Available Apprenticeships in Wollongong

Explore the trades we recruit for across the Illawarra. Each links to the full apprenticeship details.

Electrical apprenticeship Wollongong

Electrical & Electrotechnology

Wire and maintain homes, sites and industry. The most in-demand apprenticeship in the Illawarra.

Learn more

Plumbing apprenticeship Wollongong

Plumbing

Install and service water, gas, drainage and roofing systems across residential and commercial work.

Learn more

Carpentry apprenticeship Wollongong

Carpentry & Construction

Build and fit out homes and commercial projects, from framing to finish, on the region’s busy build sites.

Learn more

Automotive apprenticeship Wollongong

Automotive & Heavy Vehicle

Service and repair cars, trucks and plant equipment. Strong demand across Illawarra workshops and transport fleets.

Learn more

Engineering apprenticeship Wollongong

Engineering & Fabrication

Weld, machine and fabricate metal. A natural fit for the region’s steel and manufacturing base.

Learn more

Horticulture apprenticeship Wollongong

Horticulture, Landscaping & Parks

Build gardens, maintain parks and shape outdoor spaces across the Illawarra and South Coast.

Learn more

How Apprenticeships Work

An apprenticeship combines paid work with nationally recognised training. 1300apprentice is your legal employer, so if a host employer’s workload changes we can move you to another host and keep your apprenticeship on track.

  1. Apply online or call us and tell us the trade you want.
  2. We match you to a host employer in the Illawarra.
  3. You start paid, on-the-job work from day one.
  4. You attend TAFE or a registered training organisation for the formal qualification.
  5. We employ you, pay your wages and support you through to completion.

Who Can Apply

  • School leavers starting their first trade career
  • Adults and mature-age workers changing careers (adult apprentice wages may apply)
  • School students through school-based apprenticeships and traineeships (SBATs)
  • Anyone in the Illawarra ready for hands-on work, no experience required

Areas We Service Across the Illawarra

We recruit, employ and place apprentices across the Illawarra and South Coast, including:

  • Wollongong CBD, Fairy Meadow, Corrimal, Bulli and Thirroul
  • Port Kembla, Warrawong, Unanderra and Figtree
  • Dapto, Albion Park, Shellharbour and Kiama
  • and the wider Illawarra and South Coast region

We also service Canberra and the ACT and Newcastle.

Trades and Industry in the Illawarra

The Illawarra is one of NSW’s major industrial regions. BlueScope’s Port Kembla Steelworks anchors a strong steel, metal and manufacturing base, alongside busy construction, engineering and fabrication sectors and a growing services economy around the University of Wollongong and the local health system. That mix creates steady demand for electrical, plumbing, carpentry, automotive and engineering apprentices.

Apprentice Wages

Apprentices are paid award wages that increase with each year of the apprenticeship, so you earn while you learn instead of paying course fees upfront. Adult apprentice rates may apply if you are 21 or over. See indicative rates on our apprentice wages page.

Contact Us

Call 1300 277 736 or email info@1300apprentice.com.au to start your apprenticeship in the Illawarra.

Register your Interest

Apprenticeship Types

Automotive & Auto Electrician

Building & construction

Electrical & Electrotechnology

Engineering

Horticulture

School based

Apprentice/Trainee intake 2026/2027

Coming up

We recruit for Illawarra apprenticeships throughout the year. Apply online or call us, and our team will guide you through a short interview and match you with a host employer.

Register your interest early to be first in line for the next intake.

About the intake

Intake interviews take about 30 mins depending on your circumstances and chosen apprenticeship.

Interviews can be conducted in person or online depending on your location in the Illawarra.

Upload your resume and cover letter to start the recruitment process. The duration of the recruitment process is different for each candidate so apply early for best results.

What happens afterwards?

If successful, we assist in finding you the right apprenticeship host employer so you can take your career to the next level.

Apply now! upload your resume to our online registration portal.

See current jobs

Why Choose 1300apprentice in Wollongong

  • We have been employing apprentices for over 40 years
  • We are your employer, so your apprenticeship continues even if a host employer’s needs change
  • A NSW-wide network of quality host employers
  • Field officer mentoring and support through to completion
  • We handle wages, superannuation, TAFE coordination and the paperwork

FAQs

An apprenticeship program is generally completed over 3 to 4 years. Within the first 3 years, you will complete structured training by a Registered Training Organisation (RTO) such as TAFE.

How do I get an apprenticeship in Wollongong?

To begin an apprenticeship in Wollongong you can apply online or call 1300apprentice on 1300 277 736 and tell us the trade you are interested in. We recruit, employ and place apprentices with host employers across the Illawarra, so you do not need to find an employer yourself.

Do I get paid during an apprenticeship?

Yes, you get paid throughout your apprenticeship. Apprentices are paid award wages from day one, and your pay increases with each year of the apprenticeship. Adult apprentice rates may apply if you are 21 or over.

How long does an apprenticeship take?

Most trade apprenticeships take about 3 to 4 years to complete, combining paid work with training. The exact length depends on your trade and progress.

Do I need experience to start an apprenticeship?

No, you do not need experience to begin your apprenticeship as apprenticeships are designed for people starting out. A willingness to learn and turn up ready for hands-on work matters more than prior experience.

Can I do an apprenticeship if I am over 21?

Yes, you can start an apprenticeship if you are over 21. We place adults and mature-age career changers, and adult apprentice wage rates may apply. It is never too late to start a trade.

Is TAFE training free for apprentices in NSW?

Many apprenticeships attract fee-free training under NSW Government programs. Eligibility depends on the qualification, and our team can point you in the right direction.

What is the difference between an apprenticeship and a traineeship?

The difference between an apprenticeship and a traineeship is that an apprenticeship leads to a trade qualification and usually takes 3 to 4 years. A traineeship covers non-trade vocations such as business or horticulture and is often shorter. We offer both across the Illawarra.

Have a question not answered? Contact us via the job seeker tab on the contact page or call us on 1300 277 736.

Our Feature Jobs

09/09/2026 Apprenticeship

Electronics and Communications Apprenticeship, 1st Year, Fyshwick ACT

Come on board now with this well-known Australian company as a 1st -3rd Year Apprentice!  Electronics and Communications is a great vocation!

View Details
08/09/2026 Apprenticeship

Carpentry Apprentice ship, 1st – 3rd Year, Concord, NSW

Start your career with a 1st-Year Carpentry Apprenticeship.  Work on premium builds and fit-outs, and earn while you gain a nationally recognised qualification.

View Details
04/09/2026 Apprenticeship

Heavy Vehicle Mechanical Apprenticeship, 1st Year, Maryland, NSW

1st Year Heavy Vehicle Mechanical Apprenticeship - Maryland

View Details
04/09/2026 Apprenticeship

Heavy Vehicle Mechanical Apprenticeship, 1st Year, Giraween, NSW

1st Year Heavy Vehicle Mechanical Apprenticeship - Giraween

View Details
27/08/2026 Apprenticeship

Landscape Construction, 1st Year Apprenticeship, Bowral, NSW

Start this career in landscape construction today!

View Details
19/08/2026 Apprenticeship

Carpentry Apprentice, 1st or 2nd Year, Canberra, ACT

Expressions of Interest.  Start Your Carpentry Apprenticeship Working on Tier 1 Construction Projects Across Canberra 

View Details
19/08/2026 Apprenticeship

Steel Fixing Apprenticeship, 1st or 2nd year, Canberra, ACT

Expressions of Interest.  Start Your Steel Fixing Apprenticeship Working on Tier 1 Construction Projects Across Canberra 

View Details
18/08/2026 Traineeship

Business Traineeship, Cert III, Sydney CBD, NSW

Business Traineeship – Sydney CBD - School Leavers Welcome! - Learn New Skills at The Big End of Town - Close to Wynyard Station

View Details
17/08/2026 Traineeship

Business Administration Traineeship, Blacktown, NSW

Kick start your career with a wonderful traineeship with your local council in Business.

View Details
17/08/2026 Apprenticeship

1st Year Greenkeeping, apprentice, Blacktown, NSW

Kick start your career with your local council in the Greenkeeping trade!

View Details
View All
Sydney metro & surrounds
Southern highlands
Illawarra
Canberra & surrounds
Central coast & Newcastle
Melbourne metro
Brisbane metro
South Coast NSW

Areas of operation

“My experience with 1300apprentice was exceptional from start to finish during by Certificate III in Business.
The recruitment process with Chad was smooth and informative in my first taste of interviewing for a corporate role.
I highly recommend 1300apprentice for anyone looking to complete Vocational Education.”

Charles via Google

“I’d like to thank you (Lorraine) and the 1300apprentice team for the opportunity and support given throughout this year. It was a very positive experience.”

Jeremy

“Incredible help and wonderful to get assistance with information involved within a field. Elated that I reached out and asked questions; which were responded with great specifics and instructed very well. Thanks!”

Max via Google

“The highlight of my Traineeship was working with my field officer, Jordan. His ongoing support, regular check-ins, and constructive feedback were invaluable. He had a genuine commitment to my success, and I felt well supported throughout the year.
I highly recommend 1300apprentice for anyone looking to complete Vocational Education.”

Charles via Google

“Big thank you to 1300apprentice, for facilitating my apprenticeship in Controls. Also a big thank you to Jordan, my Field Officer, for always working in the best interest of his apprentices and going above and beyond.”

Patrick via Google

“I have been working with 1300apprentice for two and half years. I was recommended by another company who is involved with 1300apprentice.

What I like about 1300apprentice is how the pre-screening process is managed; suitable candidates are considered for my business, and I especially like how the apprentice is overseen by their Apprentice & Trainee Officer. The processes are managed for me, and I am grateful as I can concentrate on my business.

1300apprentice is great to work with and I have good communication contacts with the recruitment team and with the Apprentice & Trainee Officer for my apprentices.” Stephen Wiggins

Verge Safety Barriers

“Thank you for your polished and informative presentation to our year 12 today Chad!

You opened their eyes to pathways and a variety of apprenticeships and traineeships that normally would not have considered. You engaged year 12 with ease and always held their attention with your vast array of knowledge and tips for job seeking.

It is so important for our students to be exposed to the employment sector and I’m sure you managed to help some of my students with a better idea of their future career direction! My students and I really enjoyed your presentation, I will be booking you every year for talk to my students!! You’re the best!”

Careers Advisor, Galston HS

“I am really enjoying my time working at ANZ Bank. I love the fact that I am able to work in such a professional environment with great staff who are able to teach and guide me professionally and personally.

Getting the hands on experience is so great and I have way more confidence now than when I first started my ASBA position with ANZ. I am getting more comfortable when dealing with customers face to face and I am able to help them with most inquiries they have. I am so happy I am doing it and really appreciate the support I am also receiving from 1300apprentice. I can call 1300apprentice with any issues or concerns and they are always happy to help and support me.”

ACT ASBA student

“I would highly recommend 1300apprentice to any one looking into taking on a traineeship. The whole process from start to finish was professional and all the staff are amazing. I have always been a shy person and struggled to be confident within the workplace. Since completing a Business Traineeship through 1300apprentice I now feel like I can take on any challenge given to me and have walked away with a full time job with my host employer. I would like to specially thank my field officer Lorraine for guiding me through my course and helping me with any issues or questions I had from start to finish.” Trainee

Jacinta Stenning

“Finishing my engineering drafting traineeship with 1300apprentice today I could not be more thankful of the work Karen Bates and earlier Meagan Thorpe put in to help navigate through the years, the support was second to none and I could not have done it without them. Having been with another apprenticeship provider previous, I can quite easily recommend 1300apprentice – if you can get Karen supporting you, you’ll be in very good hands.” Apprentice

Riley Amos

“HRC Alliance Pty Ltd continually placed an emphasis on building loyalty which starts with an emphasis on training, ultimately ensuring our success and developing a culture which emanates from the development of apprentices. Our expansion would not have been possible without the support of 1300apprentice. Their professionalism, management and commitment have empowered HRC Alliance to develop and cultivate skills and individuals for over fifteen years. 1300apprentice has been an integral part of our expansion plans and I would recommend their services to any employer.”

HRC Alliance

“Jake is one of the best apprentices I’ve ever worked with, …his quality of work is 6 out 5, …and he has a willingness to have a go at anything.” Keith, site supervisor

Liftronic

“Being a female in this (cabinet making) industry is honestly amazing. I get so much support and guidance; this isn’t just for males it’s for everybody willing to give it a go!.” 1300apprentice Award nominee

Brieana Guidi

“I am writing to express my sincere gratitude for your participation and the stall you held at the Canberra College careers expo. Your presence and the information you shared honestly made a difference in students’ experiences.

Your expertise and willingness to engage in meaningful conversations were evident, and I genuinely appreciated the time you took to answer their questions and provide guidance.

Canberra College Careers and Transition Expo has been an enlightening experience for students, and your stall significantly shaped their understanding of various career paths and opportunities. They are now better equipped to make informed decisions about the future and pursue their aspirations more clearly.

Once again, thank you for your dedication, enthusiasm, and the invaluable resources you provided at the event. Your contribution has positively impacted our students’ career exploration journey, and I am grateful for the opportunity to have interacted with you and your team.” Careers Practitioner

Canberra College

“1300apprentice is a great company that definitely stands out from its competitors. When you come into the office, whether you’re an apprentice, trainee or working directly for the business, you will always be treated with respect and feel welcomed by all staff. This company stands out for its high level of respect, professionalism, the company’s mission and its values.”

Ashley Arezo

“Best experience working with 1300apprentice they are a very helpful team and always happy to help. Made me feel like an important person!” Business Trainee

Sarah Horn

“1300apprentice have been truly amazing with everything through my apprenticeship. Both Karen and Megan were amazing at helping me throughout my journey. I have now started my own business in my trade and couldn’t be here without them. Cannot reccomend and thank them enough.”

B Martin

“Scott Reed and I have been working together since 2011 assisting young people into their chosen career and will continue to do so when he moves on from Stairlock to Opening Roof Specialist at Minto in November.”

Stairlock

“I have been dealing with Nick Brill from 1300apprentice for the last 6 months. Nick has been very accommodating and helpful, and made the entire process run smoothly and stress free.

Nick was also able to place us with two new apprentices at very short notice, which we would not have been able to do without his help.” Director

O’Brien Electrical

“Thank you for organising the guest speaker for Casimir Catholic College. Chad did a great job and the students benefited from the presentation.”

Casimir Catholic College

“The whole team at 1300apprentice is outstanding. Every contact from a phone call in, to Recruitment, Safety and Field support is excellent. The organisation has a culture of being communicative, open and committed to great outcomes for the Apprentices, Trainees and the Host. The team uses quality training providers and match the course to the provider for the best result. Regular contact with us as the Host and with the employee has been consistant and effective. I highly recommend 1300apprentice.” Director

Dynaweld

“I recently completed my Cert III in Business through ACCM whilst completing my traineeship (with 1300apprentice). I would highly recommend achieving your qualifications through ACCM as I had a great experience with my studies.”

Eloise Patrick, ACCM

“Since 2004 our recruitment and apprentice management fees have reduced by using 1300apprentice. 1300apprentice provides quality candidates and continuous management of our apprentices, assisting with workplace issues, TAFE performance, monitoring and providing counselling when required. Safety is very important to our organisation and we are regularly updated with changes to Work, Health and Safety and our apprentices have a high work ethic to safe work practices due to the regular safety alerts and monitoring from 1300apprentice. 1300apprentice are reliable, responsive and provide a quality of service to employers and apprentices.”

Breseight

“I would like to thank 1300apprentice for assisting us with apprentices since 2016. They make the process of setting up apprentices with TAFE enrolments & informing us of our obligations as a hosting company easy, which is an invaluable help to us. Our nominated Field Officer sets a great example as a mentor, motivating & encouraging, diligently monitoring TAFE & TAFE results, regularly conducting performance reviews at our site & maintaining B2B relationships.”

All Ways Crane Services

“After being disappointed with other employment agencies and their lack of effort it was refreshing to find 1300apprentice. Their professionalism in finding qualified staff is first class. 1300apprentice build relationships with their clients and learn their industries to help find the right fit. No other agency even phones on a regular basis let alone visits to ensure things are going well. 1300apprentice is my first option every time.”

Construction Management

“1300apprentice treat apprentices and their clients as people, not merely a revenue stream. They are the best in their industry. The care, direction, and attention they provide ensure that their candidates fit your business needs. They are a solid and reliable partner in developing and training apprentices for their future trade, producing industry best staff. We highly recommend them.”

Airco

“1300apprentice has taken all of the stress out of finding staff for our business. I have always found 1300apprentice to be very responsive when we have requested casual staff on short notice and nothing is ever too difficult. The care and professionalism that they show towards the development of the people they place in the workforce, whilst still ensuring the satisfaction level of the client is commendable. We have always been very happy with the caliber of people that they have supplied and I would be happy to recommend their services.”

AmTote Australasia

“1300apprentice takes the stress out of finding staff for our business. We have found some great trainees through 1300apprentice and we are really happy with the ongoing support they provide to both us and our trainees. They are very professional and really care about the development of the people they place in the workforce and the satisfaction level of the host employer. We are very happy with the service they provide.”

Adept Training

“We have used 1300apprentice for a year now and love the staff and convenience of placing staff at our business. We feel confident with the placement of staff in apprenticeships and traineeships in our business. They not only support us all but also are a great support to the staff they place.”

Dynaweld
Government News