Apprentice Kickstart Extension

What is the Apprentice Kickstart Extension?

The Apprentice Kickstart Extension triples the first-year incentive payment to small and medium-sized employers who put on a new young apprentice in a skills shortage trade between 12 May 2010 and 12 November 2010 (inclusive).

This new phase follows the success of the initial Apprentice Kickstart program over the summer of 2009–10, when employers in traditional trades took on about 24,400 young apprentices.

Who is eligible for the Apprentice Kickstart Extension?

Small and medium-sized employers (less than 200 employees) and registered group training
organisations, who employ an Australian Apprentice who is aged 19 years and under and undertaking a Certificate III or IV level qualification that leads to a skills shortage trade occupation. Trade occupations in national skills shortage are lised at www.australianapprenticeships.gov.au.

The Apprentice Kickstart Extension is payable for commencements from 12 May until 12 November 2010 (inclusive). The employer must also meet all other eligibility requirements under the Australian Apprenticeships Incentives Program.

How do I apply?

Through your Australian Apprenticeships Centre. If you do not know the name of your Australian Apprenticeships Centre, call the Australian Apprenticeships referral line on 13 38 73.

What financial support is available under the Apprentice Kickstart Extension?

By accessing the Apprentice Kickstart Extension, employers will receive $3350 in bonus payments in addition to the existing $1500 commencement incentive.

The existing $1500 commencement incentive payable at the three month point will be boosted by a bonus of $850 plus $2500 paid after nine months.

Payments are made directly to the employer’s nominated bank account.

More information

Website: www.australianapprenticeships.gov.au
Australian Apprenticeships referral line: 13 38 73