How Much Do Apprentices Get Paid in Australia? Apprentice Wages 2026–2027

Are you ready to kickstart your career as an apprentice? One of the first questions anyone asks before starting a trade is: how much will I earn? In Australia, apprentice wages are set by the Fair Work Commission and vary based on your trade, your age, your year of training, and the award or enterprise agreement that covers your role. For state-specific breakdowns, see our NSW, QLD and VIC wage guides.

This guide breaks down what you can expect to earn as a first-year apprentice across the most popular trades, with updated pay rates reflecting the July 2026 annual wage review (4.75% increase).

What Determines Your Apprentice Pay?

So, how much do apprentices get paid? Regarding wages, apprentices in Australia are paid according to the Fair Work Commission’s apprentice pay rates. Your apprentice wage depends on several factors:

• Trade: Your trade or industry (for example, electrical, carpentry, automotive or plumbing)
• Age: Most awards set different rates for apprentices under 21 and adult apprentices aged 21 and over
• Year of training: Wages increase each year as you progress through your apprenticeship
• Award or agreement: The specific Modern Award or enterprise agreement that covers your workplace

Generally, apprentice wages start lower than fully qualified tradespeople but increase with each year of your apprenticeship. On top of base wages, many apprentices also receive tool allowances, travel allowances, overtime rates and penalty rates for weekends and public holidays.

Want to explore the latest job opportunities for apprenticeships? Visit our Jobs Page.

First-Year Apprentice Wages by Trade (2026–2027)

Across the board, first year apprentices in Australia typically earn above $600 a week, depending on their trade.

If you’re wondering how much first-year apprentices get paid, it’s also important to remember that many employment arrangements may include additional benefits such as tool allowances, travel expenses, and overtime opportunities, which can boost your income.

The following rates are based on the relevant Modern Awards as updated from 1 July 2026. Rates are based on Fair Work award information for first-year apprentices under 21 who have completed Year 12.

Adult Apprentice Wages (21 and Over)

If you are 21 or older when you start your apprenticeship, you are classified as an adult apprentice. Under most awards, adult apprentices earn at least the national minimum wage, which increased to $26.44 per hour ($1,004.90 per week) from 1 July 2026.

Many adult apprentices earn above the minimum, particularly in trades like electrical, plumbing and heavy vehicle mechanics where prior experience is valued.

Considering a career change? Read our complete guide to mature age apprenticeships.

How Wages Increase Over Your Apprenticeship

Apprentice wages usually increase each year as you build skills, complete more training and take on more responsibility in the workplace. As a general guide, weekly wages for junior apprentices who have completed Year 12 may sit around:

• First year: approximately $560–$724 per week
• Second year: approximately $671–$836 per week
• Third year: approximately $839–$948 per week
• Fourth year: approximately $985–$1,116+ per week

Actual rates vary depending on the applicable award, trade, age, apprenticeship stage, ordinary hours, allowances, overtime and penalties. Apprentices should check the Fair Work Pay Calculator for the rate that applies to their specific role.

Additional Entitlements and Allowances

Beyond your base wage, you may be entitled to:

• Australian Apprenticeship Support Loan: An interest-free government loan to help with living expenses during training
• Penalty rates: Penalty rates for overtime, weekends and public holidays under your award
• Travel allowances: Some awards include travel or site allowances, particularly in construction and remote work

Learn more about the apprentice allowances and how to claim them.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does a first-year apprentice get paid per hour?

Based on a 38-hour work week, first-year apprentices earn upwards of $16 per hour depending on their trade, age and award. Adult apprentices (21+) earn at least $26.44 per hour from July 2026.

Do apprentice wages go up each year?

Yes. Under all Modern Awards, apprentice wages increase at the start of each year of training. By your fourth year, you will typically earn 80–90% of a fully qualified tradesperson’s wage.

Which apprenticeship pays the most in the first year?

First-year apprentice wages vary depending on the trade, award, employment arrangement and any applicable allowances. Construction-based trades may appear higher in some cases because certain roles can include site, industry or tool allowances. Electrical and plumbing apprenticeships can also offer competitive first-year rates, depending on the award and type of work involved.

Are apprentice wages the same in every state?

Minimum apprentice wages are generally set under national modern awards, which means the base rate is not usually different just because you work in a different state. However, the final amount an apprentice earns can vary depending on the applicable award, allowances, enterprise agreement, employment arrangements, overtime, penalties and the type of work being performed.

Who manages apprentice wages if I’m employed through 1300apprentice?

If you are employed through 1300apprentice, 1300apprentice is your legal employer and manages your wages, payslips, superannuation and payroll-related support. Your host employer provides on-the-job training, supervision and workplace experience.

For further guidance or to start your apprenticeship journey, feel free to Contact Us at 1300apprentice today!