Sign up an apprentice or trainee
Get help signing up an apprentice or trainee and accessing government funding and incentives.
Your apprenticeship or traineeship is more than just a job. It's the start of a career where you'll build skills, gain experience and earn a nationally recognised qualification. Here's what to expect from sign-up to completion and how to stay on track along the way.
Getting started
Your apprenticeship journey begins when you sign your Training Contract. This agreement between you, your employer and your training provider marks the official start of your apprenticeship or traineeship.
As part of the sign-up process, Apprenticeship Support Australia (ASA) will help set up and manage your Training Contract and answer any questions you may have.
Take time to read through the sign-up guide provided and save copies of important documents somewhere easy to access. You can also explore our resource hub for helpful guides, tools and information throughout your apprenticeship.
Before you start, we will also complete a short readiness assessment. This is not a test, it’s just a simple conversation about your goals, the role and any support you may need.
Get set up
Before you start work, there are a few important things to organise.
To help your employer set you up, you may need to:
- Organise a bank account for your wages
- Set up a superannuation fund
- Ensure you have a tax file number (TFN)
You may also need to:
- Create or provide a Unique Student Identifier (USI), which is a government-issued number required to complete your training
- Provide identification and personal details
- Access ADMS, if you’re eligible for financial support
Starting work
Starting a new workplace can feel nerve-racking, especially if it’s your first job or apprenticeship. A little preparation can help you feel more confident.
- Make sure you know your start time, where you need to be for work and training, and how you'll get there.
- Have your important documents ready to take with you such as your tax file number, bank and superannuation details.
- Check with your employer if you need any equipment or a uniform.
- Be on time and reliable.
- Introduce yourself to your colleagues.
- Ask questions if you're unsure.
- Take the opportunity to learn from those around you.
Visit the resource hub for more helpful guides to read before your first day.
Keep us updated
If any of your details change during your apprenticeship, including your contact details, employer, job role, workplace location, qualification or RTO, please let us know.
Training and learning
Your apprenticeship or traineeship combines paid work with formal training. During your first few weeks, your employer and training provider will help develop a Training Plan that outlines:
- What you'll be learning
- When your training will take place
- Any assessments you need to complete
To stay on track:
- Attend work and training as required
- Complete assessments on time
- Keep up with your learning and training activities
- Maintain your logbook if required
Don’t be afraid to ask questions if something is unclear.
Check-ins along the way
Throughout your apprenticeship or traineeship, ASA will stay engaged with you and check in from time to time. These check-ins are a chance to talk about your progress, make sure your training is on track and discuss any challenges. They may be in the form of Progress Contacts, wellbeing surveys or self service checks.
You may discuss:
- Your progress at work and training
- Any challenges you're facing
- Anything affecting your apprenticeship or traineeship
- Any support you may need
These check-ins may take place in person, over the phone, online or via email, either with us or the Department of Employment and Workplace Relations.
Support when you need it
It's normal to need extra support at different stages of your apprenticeship or traineeship.
Whether you're having challenges at work, with training or in your personal life, we're here to help. We can connect you with mentoring and support services to help you stay on track.
You don't have to figure everything out on your own. Reach out if you need support.
Completing your apprenticeship
As you progress through your apprenticeship or traineeship, you'll continue building your skills, knowledge and confidence.
When you complete your training, you'll have:
- A nationally recognised qualification
- Valuable workplace experience
- Skills to help you take the next step in your career
Completing your apprenticeship or traineeship is just the beginning. You may choose to continue your training, specialise in your trade or pursue new career opportunities.
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