An Australian Apprenticeship combines paid employment with structured on-the-job learning and formal training through a Registered Training Organisation (RTO).
It allows an apprentice to develop practical skills while working towards a nationally recognised qualification — earning while they learn.
An apprenticeship involves more than just the apprentice and their employer. Several organisations and people may be involved in establishing the apprenticeship, delivering training, providing support and making sure the requirements of the Training Contract are met.
So, who’s who in the Apprenticeship Zoo — and what does everyone actually do?
The apprentice is employed under a Training Contract and learns through a combination of paid work, practical on-the-job experience and formal training.
The apprentice is responsible for participating in their training, working towards the required competencies and meeting the obligations of their Training Contract and training plan.
The employer provides paid employment, appropriate work, supervision and on-the-job learning so the apprentice can develop the skills required for their trade.
The employer also works with the apprentice, RTO and other relevant organisations to support the apprenticeship and meet their obligations under the Training Contract.
Apprentice Connect Australia Providers are contracted by the Australian Government to provide free support to apprentices and employers.
They help with commencing an apprenticeship, the Training Contract process, identifying support needs, accessing available assistance and providing support throughout the apprenticeship.
The RTO provides the formal training and assessment component of the apprenticeship and works with the apprentice and employer to develop and manage the training plan.
The RTO assesses the apprentice’s progress and competency and, when all requirements are successfully completed, issues the nationally recognised qualification.
Apprenticeships are regulated under state and territory training arrangements. The relevant authority registers and administers Training Contracts and oversees apprenticeship requirements within its jurisdiction.
The name of the authority and some requirements differ depending on where the apprentice is employed.
Group Training Organisation (GTO)
A Group Training Organisation employs apprentices and trainees and places them with host employers, who provide the day-to-day work and on-the-job experience. The GTO remains the legal employer and manages the employment and training arrangements.
Host Employer
Where an apprentice is employed through a GTO, a host employer provides the workplace, appropriate work, supervision and practical experience for the period of the placement.
Parent or Guardian
For younger apprentices, a parent or guardian may need to be involved in parts of the apprenticeship process. Requirements can differ between states and territories.
School
For a school-based apprenticeship, the apprentice’s school is also involved in coordinating the apprenticeship with their secondary education. Arrangements and requirements vary between states and territories.
Training Contract
The formal agreement that establishes the apprenticeship between the apprentice and employer. It is lodged for registration with the relevant state or territory training authority and sets out the obligations of the parties.
Training Plan
A document developed with the apprentice, employer and RTO that outlines how the apprentice’s training and assessment will be delivered and how they will work towards their qualification.
Adult Apprentice
For apprentices covered by the Building and Construction General On-site Award, an adult apprentice is a person who is 21 years of age or older when they sign their Training Contract.
School-Based Apprentice
An apprentice who undertakes an apprenticeship while also completing secondary education. The way school-based apprenticeships operate and their requirements can differ between states and territories.
Qualification
The nationally recognised VET qualification the apprentice is working towards as part of their apprenticeship.
Statement of Attainment
A formal record issued by an RTO confirming the units of competency or modules a person has successfully completed where a full qualification has not been issued.
Australian Apprenticeships operate within a national vocational education and training system, but Training Contracts and some apprenticeship requirements are administered by state and territory governments.
This means that processes, terminology, funding arrangements and some requirements can differ depending on where an apprentice is employed.
For information about your individual Training Contract or state-specific requirements, contact your Apprentice Connect Australia Provider or the relevant state or territory training authority.
For current information about Australian Apprenticeships, support and services, visit the Australian Government’s Australian Apprenticeships information.
