About apprenticeships

Apprenticeships combine practical work with structured training to give people both a nationally-recognised qualification and the experience they need for the job they want.

Apprenticeships are a great way to build a career. No matter what industry a person might be interested in, apprenticeships provide an attractive training option that enables the apprentice to work and be paid while undertaking the necessary training.

An electrical apprenticeship takes approximately four years to complete and traineeships take one to two years. It is even possible in some places to start training for an apprenticeship while still at school. School-based New Apprenticeships allow students to start an apprenticeship while at school.

Apprenticeships are covered by formal agreements known as either 'Training Agreements' or 'Contracts of Training.' These agreements set out the training and supervision an employer must provide for the employee, as well as the employee's obligations as an apprentice.

The training can be delivered on-the-job, off-the-job or a combination of both. Off-the-job training is done with TAFE colleges or other approved training providers.

For information about apprenticeships visit the Australian Apprenticeships website.