Electrotechnology apprenticeships

Due to safety problems in the past, apprentices in the electrotechnology industry now have extra protections and higher training requirements compared to apprentices in other industries.

School-based

Higher age criteria

To start an electrotechnology apprenticeship, school students must:

  • have passes in Year 10 English, Maths and Science
  • and
  • be in Year 11 or 12.

More work experience

School-based electrotechnology apprentices must complete at least 600 hours (80 days) of paid work for every 12 months of their training contract.

There are other requirements for school-based arrangements which can be found on the Queensland Training Information Service (QTIS). Search for the occupation name (e.g. electrician) and read 'Criteria for school-based apprenticeships in electrotechnology qualifications' in the search results.

Part-time

It is possible to do a part-time apprenticeship in electrotechnology, but you must still meet all other requirements before you can be signed up.

Find more information on part-time requirements on QTIS. Search for the occupation name (e.g. electrician) and read 'Criteria for part-time apprenticeships in electrotechnology qualifications' in the search results.

Employer obligations

Since a review in 2016 by the Queensland Training Ombudsman, there are revised training and supervision guidelines for employers of electrical apprentices.


Find out more about employer obligations related to electrical apprentices.

More information

Contact the Electrical Safety Office on 1300 362 128 for more information on specific supervision requirements for electrical apprentices.