An existing employee is defined as a staff member who has been with your business for more than three months on a full-time basis or for more than 12 months on a casual or part-time basis.
If an employee doesn't fit this definition, then they are considered to be a 'new entrant'.
Benefits
Training existing staff as an Australian Apprentice gives you the benefit of:
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investing in an employee who you know and trust
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government funding for the training of your Australian Apprentice
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not having to go through the time consuming recruitment process
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ensuring the availability of skills tailored specifically to your company and industry
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giving your staff the opportunity to learn new skills and gain nationally recognised qualifications.
Australian Apprenticeships are competency-based and therefore acknowledge the skills an employee has gained on-the-job. This formal skills recognition means the investment in training existing staff may be less time-consuming than you would anticipate.
Government incentives
Under certain conditions your existing employee will also attract Australian Apprenticeships incentives. The Australian Government provides:
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$1,650 for an employee with no prior qualification starting a Certificate III or IV qualification with nominal duration of at least 2 years
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$2,750 for an employee with no prior qualification completing a Certificate III or IV qualification with nominal duration of at least 2 years
Special incentives are also available for employers who commence eligible Australian Apprentices who are employed in:
Special incentives are also available for employers who commence Australian Apprentices who are:
For further information on available Australian Government incentives, download Summary of the Australian Apprenticeships Incentives Programme (pdf).
To find out more information and what financial assistance you are eligible for, select your state or territory link or contact your local Australian Apprenticeships Centre.
