Making the most of Government grants to employ apprentices
The Treasurer announced, in the 2010 Federal Budget, an extension to the ‘Apprentice Kickstart’ program with the aim to help 22,500 youths find employment.
Under the ‘Apprentice Kickstart program 2’ which commenced on 12 May 2010, eligible employers will be entitled to employ an Australian apprentice 19 years and under undertaking a Certificate III or IV level qualification in a skills shortage trade occupation.
To be an eligible employer you must have fewer than 200 employees.
The incentives available include $3,350 paid as $850 at the three month mark and $2,500 paid at the end of nine months. This is in addition to the standard grant of $4,000. The program ends on 12 November 2010.
There are also Federal Government support programs available for adult workers who are aged 25 or over at 1 January 2010.
A payment to either the employer or the apprentice, of $150 per week, up to a maximum of $7,800 per annum, is available in the first year. Furthermore $100 per week, up to a maximum of $5,200 per annum, is available in the second year for those adult workers who upgrade their skills through an Australian Apprenticeship at Certificate III or IV level in an occupation listed on the National Skills Needs list.
Further information about Australian Apprenticeships can be obtained from http://www.australianapprenticeships.gov.au
