The Australian Apprenticeship / Traineeship Training Contract is a legally binding agreement between you and your Australian Apprentice. It protects both you and your employee's interests and outlines your obligations.
Contact your local Australian Apprenticeships Centre (AAC) for a copy of the training contract.
Lodging the training contract
An AAC representative is required to be present when the training contract is signed by the employer and Australian Apprentice. At this visit, the AAC is required to:
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advise you both of your rights and responsibilities as outlined by the National Code of Good Practice
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ensure that the Australian Apprenticeship is appropriate for both of you
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ensure that you have received all necessary information.
Once the contract is completed, your AAC will submit it to the relevant state or territory training authority (STA).
Legally binding agreement
The training contract is a legally binding agreement between you and your Australian Apprentice.
It outlines your obligation to:
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employ and train the Australian Apprentice
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provide the relevant wages and conditions
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ensure that the Australian Apprentice receives adequate facilities and supervision necessary to complete the training.
National Code of Good Practice for Australian Apprenticeships
You are required to read the National Code of Good Practice before signing the training contract. It explains the rights and responsibilities of both you and your Australian Apprentice.
You should retain a copy of this code until the Australian Apprenticeship is complete.
The training plan
You will need to submit a training plan which details both the on and off-the-job training that the Australian Apprentice must receive to achieve the qualification specified in the training contract. This training plan must be endorsed by your chosen training provider.
Probation period
Each contract must stipulate a probation period during which either party can terminate the agreement by giving one week's notice. The length of the probation period is established by state and territory legislation and varies according to:
Once probation is completed, you and your Australian Apprentice are bound by obligations under the contract. Only by mutual agreement will it be possible to transfer, suspend, cancel or vary the contract.
The AAC is there to assist you with all aspects of the training contract. Find an Australian Apprenticeships Centre in your area or call the Australian Apprenticeships Referral Line on 13 38 73 (local call cost within Australia).
