A Guide to Financial Support for Apprentices in Australia (2025-2026)
Starting an apprenticeship in Australia is a big step, and while the hands-on training and career opportunities are undoubtedly exciting, we know that money can sometimes be tight.
The good news is that there is plenty of financial apprenticeship support in Australia — anything from loans to living allowances to payment just for being in a priority trade.
If you’re just finishing school, in the middle of switching careers, or starting to learn a new trade, this guide will break down what type of help is available to you in 2025-2026, plus how 1300apprentice can also support you along the way.
What is Apprenticeship Support in Australia?
Apprenticeship support refers to the variety of payments, government programmes, and services meant to help trainees and apprentices succeed. Their primary purpose is to provide practical tools and financial stability, so you can complete your qualification with ease.
More specifically, apprenticeship support covers things such as:
- Financial aid for apprentices and their employers
- Training and mentoring through Group Training Organisations
- Additional help for underrepresented groups (e.g. First Nations apprentices, women in trades, and mature-aged workers).
2025-2026 Budget Highlights
Starting from 1 July 2025, the Australian government is providing extra support for apprentices and their employers to help cope with the pressures of the cost-of-living.
The 2025-2026 Federal Budget has introduced several updates that make apprenticeships more affordable and appealing.
| Highlights | Details |
| Up to $10,000 in extra support for apprentices | Starting on 1 July 2025, apprentices in a priority occupation can receive this amount (on top of their wages) through the Key Apprentice Program. |
| Support payments extended until end of 2025 | The Australian Apprentice Training Support Payment and the Priority Hiring Incentive will be active until 31 December 2025. These payments help both the apprentice and their employer stay supported while the apprentice is learning. |
| Bigger payments for Living Away From Home and for apprentices with disability | Starting on 1 July 2025, the Living Away from Home Allowance and Disability Apprentice Wage Subsidy will increase, providing more financial help for those who have to move locations for their apprenticeship and better support for apprentices with disability. |
| More investment in TAFE Centres of Excellence | The government is providing extra funding for TAFE Centres of Excellence in Australia to fast-track new training facilities and improve the quality of apprentices’ learning experience. |
Read more about the full budget details.
Who is Eligible for Financial Support?
To be eligible for financial support or apprentice support in Australia, you need to:
- Be undertaking an Australian apprenticeship or traineeship.
- Be working in a priority occupation (e.g. electrical, plumbing, or mechanical trades).
- Be studying at a Certificate III or IV level, or in a qualification that leads to one.
Specific support is also available for:
- Employers
- Young Australians
- Mature-aged apprentices
- Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander apprentices
Available Support for Apprenticeships in Australia
| Financial Support | Details |
| Australian Apprenticeship Support Loans | -> Loans that help cover the purchase of trade tools, safety gear, or basic living costs. -> Paid in instalments throughout your apprenticeship. -> Doesn’t need to be paid back until you start earning a decent wage. |
| Australian Apprentice Training Support Payment | -> Apprentices in the priority occupation list could receive up to $5,000 over the first two years of apprenticeship. -> Paid in six monthly instalments. |
| Income Support Payments | ->Youth Allowance (if you’re 24 or under) -> Austudy (if you’re 25+) -> ABSTUDY (if you’re Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander) |
| Living Away From Home Allowance (LAFHA) | -> An allowance that helps with the additional costs of living that come with moving away from your parents’ or guardians’ home. -> Weekly tax-free payment that reduces as you progress in your training. -> Receive $77.17 per week during your first year of training. |
Learn more about apprenticeship support in Australia.
How to Apply for Apprenticeship Support
Applying for apprenticeships in Sydney or throughout Australia is mostly straightforward, however the steps taken will differ depending on what kind of financial support you’re after. Here’s a general guide:
- Contact an RTO: Start your apprenticeship with a Registered Training Organisation and employer (like those partnered with 1300apprentice).
- Speak to your Apprentice & Trainee Officer: The team at 1300apprentice can help walk you through your entitlements during induction.
- Apply where you’re eligible: Visit Services Australia to apply for Youth Allowance, Austudy, or ABSTUDY, or apply for Loans and Training Support Payments via your Australian Apprenticeship Support Network provider.
- Enquire with your employer: Ask your employer about LAFHA or check for other employer-based benefits.
Need additional help? Reach out to the team at 1300apprentice for guidance about apprenticeship programs or understanding school-based apprenticeships and traineeships. We also help employers find qualified apprentices.
FAQs
Do I have to pay back the Trade Support Loan?
Yes, but only after you reach a certain income level. The Trade Support Loan is interest-free in real terms, meaning it only rises with inflation. You won’t need to make repayments until you’re earning above the repayment threshold (set by the Australian Government each year). This makes it a flexible way to cover tools, equipment, or everyday living costs while you complete your apprenticeship.
Can I get apprenticeship support if I’m over 25?
Yes. If you’re 25 or older, you may be eligible for Austudy (instead of Youth Allowance), Living Away from Home Allowance, Trade Support Loans, or additional employer incentives if you’re classified as a mature-aged apprentice (21+).
What is a priority occupation for Australian apprenticeships?
Priority occupations are trades and skills that are currently in demand across Australia. They are listed on the official Australian Apprenticeships Priority List, and being in one could make you eligible for extra support.
What help is available if I’m struggling with my TAFE or RTO studies?
If you’re having a hard time keeping up with off-the-job training, 1300apprentice can chat with your TAFE or RTO to organise extra support or walk you through resubmissions or assessments. Please speak to your Apprentice & Trainee Officer for assistance and support.
Ready to Start Your Apprenticeship Journey?
1300apprentice does more than match apprentices and trainees with host employers — we provide support throughout your apprenticeship journey through career advice, mentoring, and help navigating financial support options.
If you’re ready to launch your career and need help every step of the way, our team is ready to help.
