Wages + Conditions
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Wages and conditions for apprenticeships and traineeships vary. As a minimum, you must be paid a training wage as outlined in the award or agreement for your occupation or industry. The wage you are paid will depend on your apprenticeship or traineeship and the progress you make and may also take into consideration what year of schooling you are currently completing. |
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Wage Levels
For most apprenticeships and traineeships, the wage is calculated as a percentage of the wage paid to qualified workers, and depends on the year or level you have reached in your apprenticeship or traineeship. When you have achieved the competencies required for your current level (or after the end of a period of time - usually 12 months), you can progress to the next wage level of your apprenticeship or traineeship.
Federal and State Awards
Federal and state awards set out the minimum wages and conditions of employment for specified employees, including Australian apprentices / trainees. Awards may include minimum rates of pay, allowances, overtime, penalty rates, hours of work and leave provisions. More than one award may apply to an employee but provide different parts of the overall employment package. To determine which awards applys to you, contact Wageline (www.wageline.qld.gov.au). If you are currently employed, speak with your employer to determine which award applies to you and ask to see a copy.
School-based Apprenticeships
If you are a School-based apprentice or trainee, your employer must provide a minimum of 48 days full-time paid employment for each year of your apprenticeship or traineeship. Generally one paid day equates to 7.6 hours. These hours can also be worked flexibly during the week. If you also work additional hours after school or on weekends as part of your Australian School-based Apprenticeship, this can count your 48 day minimum. Remember 48 paid days is the minimum only - any additional days mean you gain extra experience and skills on the job. There are some industries that have specific Australian School-based Apprenticeship regulations. For example Electrotechnology requires employers to gaim approval prior to employing an Australian School-based Apprentice. They must also ensure 80 paid days in the workplace.
Unlike other apprentices and trainees, School-based participants:
- Don't get paid for the time spent undertaking training delivered by the supervising RTO
- Don't accrue entitlements such as sick leave or recreation leave