Costs of employing an apprentice or trainee
Costs may include:
- recruitment costs
- training costs
- wages and entitlements, including
- superannuation
- workers' compensation
- cost of supplying tools (if required)
- cost of providing special equipment (if required).
Training costs
Generally the employer pays for the training; however, there are options for working with 'preferred supplier' training organisations that are funded by the department to deliver training in certain areas—so there is minimal cost to you. This is referred to as User Choice funding.
You can choose one of these training organisations or you may pay the full fee for training delivered by an organisation that does not have a contract with the department.
To find out which registered training organisations (RTOs) offer training under User Choice:
- search the Queensland Training Information Service for your chosen apprenticeship or traineeship
- phone Apprenticeships Info on 1800 210 210 or email apprenticeshipsinfo@qld.gov.au
- contact your local Australian Apprenticeships Centre.
What should I pay my apprentice or trainee?
Wages and entitlements are managed by the Fair Work Infoline and vary depending on the award or agreement your apprentice or trainee is employed under.
Contact the Fair Work Infoline on 13 13 94 for details on what your apprentice or trainee should be paid.
Apprentice and trainee general entitlements
Workers' compensation
Apprentices and trainees are entitled to workers' compensation in the same way as any other employee.
Visit WorkCover or call WorkCover Queensland on 1300 362 128 for more information.
Superannuation
You must pay superannuation into an approved fund for your apprentice or trainee, just as you do with any other employee. Appropriate superannuation paperwork should be provided on commencement.
Tool allowance
Contact Fair Work Infoline on 13 13 94 to find out which apprenticeships require you to supply tools or pay a tool allowance.
