Apprentice spotlight: Mentoring and KAP incentives helped Chase stay on track

Starting an apprenticeship is an exciting step, but for many apprentices, the reality of training costs and day-to-day expenses can quickly become overwhelming.

For First Nations plumbing apprentice Chase Osland, beginning his Certificate III in Plumbing at Metford TAFE was the start of a career pathway he was excited to pursue. He joined Newcastle Plumbing Kings, where owner Alex is passionate about creating opportunities for young people entering the trades and building stronger pathways for First Nations apprentices.

Recognising both the shortage of skilled workers entering the industry and the importance of culturally supportive workplaces, Alex welcomed three First Nations brothers into the business, including Chase.

Like many apprentices entering the industry, however, the upfront costs of tools, equipment and training materials created financial pressure early in his apprenticeship journey. Combined with broader cost-of-living pressures, these expenses risked impacting his ability to fully participate, and commit to, both work and training.

Through Apprenticeship Support Australia’s First Nations Mentoring and Personal Support Services (MPSS), Chase was connected to ongoing mentoring and practical support designed to help him stay engaged and supported throughout his apprenticeship.

Working closely with both Chase and Newcastle Plumbing Kings, the mentoring team provided regular check-ins via phone, SMS and email, coordinated workplace progress support, and ensured he remained eligible for financial incentives.

Importantly, the team also helped Chase access Key Apprentice Program (KAP) financial incentives, allowing him to purchase the tools and equipment needed to continue working confidently in the trade.

The upfront cost of tools and equipment, combined with ongoing training expenses and printing charges for large TAFE workbooks (costing around $100 each), created additional financial strain during the early stages of his apprenticeship. Chase’s ASA mentor escalated the issue directly to the TAFE NSW Aboriginal Student Support Unit, advocating for alternative solutions and additional support to reduce the financial burden.

For Alex, supporting apprentices is about more than workforce development.

She said she is passionate about “helping to build young skills in the industry, companionship for tradesmen, moulding apprentices to fit the company,” and believes it is “important to contribute to building the skills in the workforce.”

Alex said watching the apprentices grow in confidence has been one of the most rewarding parts of the experience.

“I get joy in watching them get excited each day and a sense of achievement when completing jobs,” she said.

The combination of mentoring, financial assistance and proactive support helped remove barriers that could have otherwise disrupted his apprenticeship. Ongoing engagement also strengthened his connection to both his workplace and training provider, while creating opportunities to participate in broader First Nations initiatives and events.

With the right support behind him, Chase has been able to stay focused on his apprenticeship and continue building a future in the plumbing industry. As he progresses through his qualification, he’s working towards his goal of completing his apprenticeship and eventually running his own business.