Who can be an apprentice or trainee?

Types of apprentices

When you think about apprenticeships and traineeships, you probably think they're for someone just out of school – but these days, apprenticeships and traineeships can also be undertaken by high school students, as well as adult and mature-aged workers. Let's check out your options!


I am...

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    Still in high school

    As an Australian School-based ¸Ø½»ÊÓƵ (AS-bA), you'll get to kickstart your career while you're still at school.

    You'llÌýundertakeÌýpaid part-time work and formal training while completing your secondary schoolingÌý(generally while in years 10-12).

    You can either finish your training while you're at school or continue your apprenticeship/traineeship with your employer once you've completed secondary school.Ìý

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    Under 21 and no longer at school

    If you're aÌýschool-leaverÌýor entering the workforce for the first time, and you're up to the age of 21, you're an apprentice or trainee. Generally, you'll be workingÌýfull-time, combining on-the-job training with formal study through a Registered Training Organisation. It’s a great way to gain a nationally accredited qualification and earn a real wage!

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    Between 21-44

    Adult Australian ¸Ø½»ÊÓƵs are aged 21-44 and are usually looking toÌýchange their career path or re-enter the workforce after a period of absenceÌý(travel, starting a family, etc.).

    If you're an adult apprentice and you're undertaking a Certificate III or IV level qualification that leads to an occupation on the National Skills Needs List () you may be eligible to attract the Support for Adult Australian ¸Ø½»ÊÓƵs (SAAA) incentive. This isÌýpaid to your employer and is a great motivator for businesses to take on adult apprentices! Your potential employer can find out what that meansÌýhere.

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    Aged 45 and over

    Aged 45 and over and wanting to formalise the skills you've gained throughout your working life? You're considered a mature-aged apprentice or trainee.ÌýAs a mature-aged apprentice or trainee,Ìýwe know you can add value to your workplace through low absenteeism, business knowledge from your previous life and work experience PLUS a strong work ethic.

    To encourage more employers toÌýassistÌýmature-aged workers in re-entering the workforce, transferring industries and training for a new vocation through an Australian ¸Ø½»ÊÓƵship, potential Government financial incentives are available. We explain that in more detailÌýhere.