This new program only applies to employers who take on an apprentice aged 15 to 19 years, and who start their apprenticeships between 1 December 2009 and 28 February 2010.  Additional incentives are only available for 21 000 apprentices nationally.

The program will more than triple the first year bonus paid to employers who employ traditional trade apprentices.  Traditional trades include butchers, bakers, bricklayers, carpenters, electricians, hairdressers and pastry cooks.

Employers will receive an increased commencement payment, from $1500 to $2350, plus an additional payment of $2500 at the nine month point of the apprenticeship, a total of $3350 additional incentives.

 For more information, call ApprentiCentre on 13 19 54.