Apprentices can be a valuable injection of fresh air for any business. Whether they’re a school leaver, someone re-entering the workforce or simply an older professional looking for a career change, a motivated and enthusiastic apprentice can prove to be a profitable investment.
Interestingly, they can also directly boost the bottom line, with government incentives available to Australian businesses who hire them.
So where can employers go to find apprentices who are hungry to learn? Below we outline the resources available and how to turn that thirst for knowledge into a mutually beneficial relationship.
Before we discuss where to get in contact with potential candidates, let’s explore the benefits a trainee can provide your business.
An Australian apprentice can be hired full-time, part-time or even based on their schooling commitments. They are paid a wage and learn on the job for up to four years. Automotive, construction and building, health, electrical and hospitality industries commonly hire apprentices, and there are Australian Government incentives that make the process mutually beneficial.
Businesses looking to hire an apprentice can seek support from Australian Apprenticeships who offer advice and personal assistance. Through Australian Apprenticeships, you can advertise for candidates by posting job listing on their Jobs Board on skillsroad.com.au. Listing a job is free.
Once your business has found a suitable apprentice, the Apprenticeship Support Australia will assist with completing a National Training Contract. This is then submitted to your State or Territory Training Authority for approval.
Inducting, coaching, mentoring and retaining a successful apprentice isn’t a process to be taken lightly. Remember, these individuals are often young and always inexperienced, so they can’t be expected to find their feet immediately.
There are a few important considerations any business should keep in mind when managing an apprentice. Simple measures like giving them a detailed (yet easy to understand) induction pack, meeting with them regularly, ensuring all equipment is provided and introducing them to the wider team are critical to their development in the early stages.
Once they’ve settled in and feel like a comfortable member of the team, tailor your management style to account for their inexperience;
Investing in training an apprentice can be an enriching move for building and construction businesses. Even high profile personalities in the industry can personally vouch for the merit of the apprentice program in Australia.
Host of The Block, Scott Cam, says his apprenticeship was one of the most rewarding experiences of his life.
“It gave me time to learn on the job, and there’s no better way of learning than just getting stuck into it,” he says.
He even notes the important role Australian apprentices play on completing the renovations on the popular reality TV show, The Block.
“They carry out work for the contestants with apprentice carpenters, plumbers, electricians and cabinet makers among the many tradespeople involved,” he says.
If you're willing to dedicate the time training someone who is eager to learn, an apprentice can be a great investment in the future of your business.
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