Apprentice wage subsidy scheme extended

The Federal Government has announced a 12-month extension of its popular apprentice wage subsidy program first announced in March 2020 as part of its economy recovery plan.

Under the latest revision of the scheme, eligible employers will have until September 2021 to sign up to the program and engage an apprentice (new or recommencing), with the Federal Government to pay 50 per cent of the apprentice’s wage for 12 months from their date of commencement, to a maximum of $7000 per quarter.

SEE ALSO: Government expands apprentice wage subsidy scheme

Previously, the scheme was capped at 100,000 slots, which has all been filled in less than five months. The program will now be demand driven instead and is expected to generate around 70,000 new apprentice and trainee places, with the Government investing around $1.2 billion to the new scheme.

“Last week’s National Accounts showed the comeback of the Australian economy is underway, however many businesses still need support and it’s important our apprentices and trainees get opportunities to boost their skills and stay employed,” said Prime Minister Scott Morrison.

“With 100,000 new apprenticeship positions already snapped up, it highlights the confidence businesses have in the future of the Australian economy.”

Minister for Employment, Michaelia Cash, said the scheme expansion has to date allowed almost 40,000 businesses to take on a new Australian apprentice or trainee.

“This initiative has supported the creation of more than 8,000 bricklayers, 6,000 electricians, and almost 11,000 people in retail and hospitality work,” she said.

“I’m so pleased that we’ve helped create 100,000 new registered apprentice and trainee places so far and we intend to help even more people get the chance to upskill or reskill.”