Information for students

Traineeship and apprenticeship training is intended to enable people to develop skills and knowledge through a combination of study and work at the same time.

There are a range of government subsidies and payments to facilitate this. In some cases trainees can receive recognition for their existing skills and knowledge.

What is an apprenticeship?

Under the Apprenticeship and Traineeship Act 2001, Apprentices and Trainees must be under a 'Contract' or 'Training Agreement' with their employer before they can study at TAFE or gain an apprenticeship qualification. 'Contracted' apprentices are then entitled to receive:

• Training at TAFE (Australian citizens or permanent residents only)
• Nationally recognised qualifications that lead to a career and pathways to other opportunities
• Financial assistance
• Ongoing advice and support

If you are unsure as to whether you are under an apprenticeship 'Contract' or 'Training Agreement', ask your employer to contact an Australian Apprenticeship Centre.

What is a traineeship?

A traineeship is a work-based training program, which means you earn while you learn.

Traineeships are usually 12 months long but there are some traineeships which take a shorter time and some which take longer. The timeframe can be anything from 6 months to 18 months.

Traineeships give you the skills and experience you need to meet industry demand for entry-level positions. Although traineeships vary from one industry to another, all traineeships include:

• Paid employment under an appropriate industry arrangement (e.g. an award or enterprise agreement)
• An indenture of traineeship (training agreement) that is signed by both the employer and trainee
• A training program, delivered by a Registered Training Organisation, that meets the requirements of a traineeship in NSW and leads to a nationally recognised qualification

See Frequently Asked Questions for more details
 

Benefits to employers

To read about traineeships and apprenticeships from the employer's perspective, visit our Employer Services page.

Useful links
Department of Education page
Australian Government jobs
Australian Apprenticeships