We know it’s important to find the right people for your team and get positions filled fast. That’s why there are organisations dedicated to providing support and advice each step of the way.
Here’s how:
Your first step is to contact an Apprentice Connect Australia Provider in your area. They will provide you with all the information you need to find an apprentice or trainee and enter into a training contract. Find your local Apprentice Connect Australia Provider(opens in a new window).
You’ll need to make some legal declarations via your ANP. Then you’ll be considered by the Victorian Registration and Qualifications Authority (VRQA), which oversees approvals for employers. The VRQA may assess your premises, any equipment your apprentice or trainee may use and the suitability of people supervising training. Head to the VRQA(opens in a new window) for more details on the approvals process.
Finding an apprentice or trainee who’s a great fit for your workplace can be similar to filling roles for regular employees. You can advertise on job sites, or use your own networks and word of mouth. And there are some extra options worth looking into:
Schools
School-based apprentices and trainees pursue on-the-job training and vocational study part time alongside their regular high school studies. They will also have their school, a parent or guardian and a training provider monitoring their work commitments. This can be a great way to give a young person experience in your industry without committing to full-time employment. Get in touch with the VET coordinator or industry liaison officer at your local school to find out more.
TAFEs and training institutes
Some people go through pre-apprenticeship training to build up their skill set ahead of an apprenticeship. Many TAFEs and other training institutes, such as group training organisations (GTOs) offer this training, so these can be good places to find motivated candidates who are already on track with industry-specific education. Find your local TAFE, registered training organisation or GTO.
Apprentice Connect Australia Provider
As well as assisting employers, your Apprentice Connect Australia Provider is responsible for supporting local apprentices and trainees – even before they begin their training. This can include matching candidates with job opportunities, so it’s a good way to advertise your apprenticeship or traineeship. Find your nearest Apprentice Connect Australia Provider
Commercial job sites
Apprenticeships and traineeships can be advertised through online job sites and social media platforms, just like regular employment opportunities. Make sure to include a clear job title, the required year level and whether the vacancy is an apprenticeship or traineeship alongside the regular job description.
Group training organisations
Acting as a host employer for a group training organisation (GTO) is an alternative way to access the apprentice and trainee talent pool without hiring directly. As a host employer, you’re not tied to a contract, all government paperwork is covered by your GTO and you can employ an apprentice or trainee for the length of time that works for you. Find out more about GTOs and benefits for employers(opens in a new window).
As an employer, you’re required to meet all industrial relations requirements for your apprentices or trainees. This includes paying award rates(opens in a new window), providing annual leave and entitlements, and allowing apprentices or trainees time to attend their formal studies at a TAFE or other training institute. Find out more about how to calculate pay and entitlements at the Fair Work Ombudsman(opens in a new window).
You and your apprentice or trainee must sign up to a formal training contract within 14 days of employment – this will be conducted by your Apprentice Connect Australia Provider. Plus, you’ll both have to agree to a training plan – along with the relevant registered training organisation. This generally covers off the timing, location and type of training needed. Find out more about these processes here.
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