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Quality Apprenticeship Employer Accreditation Scheme
GAN Australia developed the Quality Apprenticeships Employer Accreditation Scheme in collaboration with international partners and apprenticeship experts. The scheme is based on the International Labour Organization’s recommendation for quality apprenticeships. The accreditation is designed to help employers stand out as leaders in apprenticeship training by recognising businesses that create safe, supportive and high-quality learning environments. By becoming accredited, your business joins a national network of organisations committed to improving the apprenticeship landscape for future generations.
What accreditation can do for your business
Earning accreditation as a quality apprenticeship employer isn’t just about recognition, it also comes with practical benefits.
Stand out in the competitive job market by showcasing your dedication to staff training and development. Apprentices and trainees are more likely to choose employers who demonstrate a genuine commitment to their success. Accreditation gives you a competitive edge.
Your accreditation sets you apart in your industry. It shows you are a trusted, quality employer who values training and a commitment to investing in the next generation of skilled workers.
Accredited employers often see higher retention rates and stronger long-term employee loyalty. Apprentices who feel supported are more likely to stay and grow with your business.
Accredited employers receive access to exclusive resources designed to help you meet accreditation standards and enhance your apprenticeship programs. You’ll also receive direct feedback to help you continuously improve.
Join an elite network of employers who share a commitment to apprenticeship quality. Engage in dialogue, share practices and collaborate on projects that advance apprenticeship standards both nationally and internationally.
Eligibility criteria
To apply for accreditation, your business must:
- Employ apprentices. You must currently employ, or have employed, apprentices within the past five years.
- Meet all mandatory requirements. These are set out in the Quality Apprenticeships application guide.
- Make a declaration. An authorised staff member must confirm that all responses and evidence are true and accurate. They must also agree to the terms and conditions and privacy policy of the Quality Apprenticeships accreditation in your country. Accreditation is country specific, so if your business operates across multiple countries, you may wish to apply for each location.
Accreditation principles
Along with the eligibility criteria, your business must show commitment to the following principles which national benchmarks and best practice:
- Supporting employment: You use apprenticeships to create entry-level pathways, with support provided from day one.
- Equality and diversity : Your apprenticeship program is inclusive and non-discriminatory, and you promote vacancies widely to help build diverse workforces.
- Wages and conditions: You help apprentices understand their workplace rights and meet all employment conditions.
- Health and safety: You prioritise safety and wellbeing, with strong practices to protect both physical and mental health.
- Staff development: You provide supervision and mentoring from trained staff to guide apprentices’ learning and growth.
Steps for accreditation
Applying for accreditation is straightforward and simple, review the steps below before you begin.
Download the registration guide and create an account on the Quality Apprenticeships online portal.
Answer all questions in the accreditation form. Provide text responses where required and upload supporting evidence where it applies. Complete all sections to ensure your submission clearly demonstrates how your business meets the criteria.
Upload supporting documentation to demonstrate your business meets the accreditation standards, such as policies, training records and safety systems.
The application fee is scaled to suit different business sizes and industries. A small business will pay less than a large employer as follows:
- 1-5 employees: FREE
- 6-40 employees: $150
- 41-100 employees: $200
- 101-500 employees: $250
- 500+ employees: $400
Your application will be assessed, and feedback will be provided. If additional information is needed, you’ll have the opportunity to revise and resubmit your application.
If your application is successful, your business will be formally accredited. You will receive a certificate of accreditation and provided resources to promote the Quality Apprenticeships seal.
Accreditation is valid for one year. At the end of this period, you’ll need to complete a renewal process. Renewal ensures employers continue to meet the standards and keeps the accreditation mark credible and respected.
Apply now
Ready to show your commitment to quality apprenticeships and be recognised as a trusted employer? Apply today or contact us with any questions.