Big bonuses are on offer for apprentices who complete training milestones and employers of apprentices.
As part of the 2024-25 state budget, $52.3 million is being allocated to fund milestone payments of $1000 for eligible apprentices to incentivise completion of qualifications. The aim is to support and grow the state’s construction workforce and alleviate the housing shortage.
WA Training and Workforce Development Minister Simone McGurk said she wanted to send a message to apprentices and employers in the building and construction industry.
“…there is cash – and a rewarding new career – up for grabs right now. These bonuses and other initiatives provide an additional incentive for anyone thinking of getting into the building and construction industry to not only start, but more importantly, to finish their training, so they can go on to a successful career,” Ms McGurk said.
The first $1000 annual milestone payments will be available for eligible apprentices to claim from 1 January 2025. Claims can be made up to a year after completion.
Apprentices will also be entitled to a $1000 rebate under the government’s Apprentice Tool Allowance scheme to help them purchase tools or safety equipment before and after their training. Regional apprentices are entitled to an increased travel and accommodation allowance if they travel more than 70 km from home for off-the-job training.
Eligible employers attract government increased bonuses as well if they have three- or four-year apprentices. A base grant of $15,000 is available, and employers with 18-24-month apprentices will receive $12,500.
Importantly, bonus rates for employing a female or mature-aged apprentice or trainee will double from 20% to 40%, with the aim of improving diversity in the building and construction industry.
About the author
Desi Corbett
Desi is the Editor of Concrete in Australia and at the helm of our magazine for 8 years. She was behind the Institute's weekly news bulletins from 2016-2021 and is now writing our focused news items. Desi has been an engineering news and features journalist/editor across all disciplines since 2013 - part of a 30-year career writing for a wide range of industries.