Incentives for employers of apprentices and trainees​

Learn about support programs and financial incentives.

Critical Skills Investment Program

The Critical Skills Investment Program supports training in areas of critical skills needs, and is aimed at increasing the number of apprentices and trainees who complete their training.

Support for Group Training Organisations

Funding is available through the Critical Skills Investment Program to assist Group Training Organisations (GTOs) to employ and mentor more apprentices and trainees.

Grants will be based on the number of apprentices and trainees employed by the GTO, and will range from around $100,000 to $800,000 depending on the size of the organisation. GTOs based in South Australia that are registered under the National Standards for Group Training Organisations will be eligible for funding. For further information call 1800 673 097.

Support for other employers

Funding is available to employers other than GTOs. A $4000 payment is available for apprenticeship and traineeship completions in qualifications that are of strategic importance to the state.

Read the Critical Skills Fund Completion Payment Fact Sheet for a list of funded qualifications, eligibility criteria and guidelines for applications. For further information call 1800 673 097.

• Critical Skills Fund completion payment fact sheet (PDF) (Word)

Other financial incentives and support

Other incentives for taking on apprentices or trainees may include:

• A reduction in WorkCover levy. See the WorkCover SA website.
• Commencement and completion payments. These are paid to employers and administered by Australian Apprenticeships Centres.
• Kickstart incentive payments for employers who take on an apprentice in selected trades in the building and construction sector. See the Australian Apprenticeships website.

To find your nearest Australian Apprenticeships Centre, go to Find my AAC or call 13 38 73.