Registering the apprentice/trainee contract

It is a legal requirement that you and your apprentice or trainee enter into a training contract within 21 days of them commencing employment as a trainee or apprentice with you. Contact an Australian Apprenticeships Centre to organise this contract as soon as your apprentice or trainee starts work.

Training

By taking on an apprentice or trainee you are committing to supporting and encouraging them as your employee.

You are responsible for providing:

• employment, training and supervision over the course of their apprenticeship or traineeship
• every opportunity to learn the skills they need to complete their qualification
• the time they need off work to complete off the job training if this is required (formal training and assessment, whether undertaken on or off the job, must be paid in working time)
• a safe working environment that complies with industrial relations and occupational health and safety regulations.

You are required to work with your registered training organisation to develop a training plan and review your apprentice/trainees progress regularly.

Probation period

To make sure you are both comfortable and happy with your training arrangement, there is a probation period of one month for each year of the apprenticeship/traineeship.  Most trainees will be on probation for one month and most apprentices for three months.  This time is included in the total term of the apprenticeship or traineeship.

During this probation period, the apprenticeship or traineeship can be cancelled by either party.

Employment conditions and wages

Minimum wages vary according to industry type, the stage of apprenticeship and the age of the apprentice. Industry awards may regulate wages and conditions of employment.

Find out more:

State awards information can be found at commerce.wa.gov.au/labourrelations  

Federal awards information can be found at fwa.gov.au or 131 394

Alternatively call Wageline 1300 655 266

Code of Good Practice

There is a National Code of Good Practice that details the obligations of employers, apprentices and trainees. A copy is available from your Australian Apprenticeships Centre where you sign your contract.