$1.3 Billion in support available for trainees in small ECEC businesses

Wage subsidies to support apprenticeship programs and traineeships in a variety of sectors and industries, including early childhood education and care (ECEC), are now available, giving employers and employees stability and financial relief during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The subsidies will initially cover 50 per cent of the wages paid to apprentices between January to March this year and continue until 30 September 2020. Federal Minister for Skills, Senator the Hon. Michaelia Cash said the Government’s $1.3 billion Supporting Apprentices and Trainees package will help businesses retain their existing apprentices and trainees through this difficult period.

“This is all about supporting those who continue to support our economy and our nation,” she said.

Wage subsidies will be available to small businesses, including those using a Group Training Organisation, to help retain existing apprentices and trainees. Employers of any size who re-engage an apprentice or trainee that has been displaced from a small business may also attract a wage subsidy.

Subsidies will cover wages paid from 1 January 2020 to 30 September 2020 and businesses will be reimbursed up to $7,000 per quarter, up to a maximum of $21,000, per eligible apprentice or trainee.

Minister Cash said the financial support had been targeted to provide “rapid and direct assistance” to protect jobs and keep businesses, apprentices and trainees connected to the benefits of training already undertaken.

Assistant Minister for Vocational Education, Training and Apprenticeships, the Hon. Steve Irons MP said apprentices and trainees were crucial to the current and future workforce, reiterating the Government’s commitment to supporting both apprentices in training, as well as employers, who have made significant investments in their employees.

For further information on how to apply for the subsidy, including information on eligibility, contact an Australian Apprenticeship Support Network provider, listed here.