In response to the COVID-19 health crisis, the Australian Government has announced an economic stimulus package, part of which will provide financial assistance for small- and medium-sized businesses to help them to retain their apprentices and trainees.

Wage subsidies to keep apprentices and trainees employed

Eligible employers will be able to apply for a wage subsidy of 50 per cent of the apprentice’s or trainee’s wages paid during the nine-month period from 1 January 2020 to 30 September 2020. Eligible employers may receive a total of up to $21,000 per apprentice.

Employers can claim this subsidy as of 2 April 2020.

Who is eligible?

• Businesses with fewer than 20 full-time employees who retains an apprentice or trainee AND whose apprentice has been in training with the business as of 1 March 2020
• Employers of any size and Group Training Organisations who engage an out-of-trade apprentice or trainee.

Please read the Australian Government’s fact sheet on cash flow assistance for businesses for further information.

To discuss your eligibility, contact your Australian Apprenticeship Support Network (AASN) provider.