Small and family-owned construction businesses can register for apprentice wage support under a new $19 million pilot program to help recruit and retain apprentices.

The Small Business Apprenticeship Pilot Program is available to the first 2,000 apprentices in eligible construction, plumbing, electrical and engineering trades while they attend up to 8 weeks of training a year.

Funding details

The pilot program reimburses:

  • 50% of the typical first or second year apprentice wages while they attend training
  • 25% of the typical third or fourth year apprentice wages while they attend training

Eligibility

To be eligible for the pilot:

  • your business must have 19 or less employees by headcount and have a maximum annual turnover of no more than $10 million
  • your apprentice must have commenced from 1 July 2025 and completed their probation period.

Read more about eligibility criteria including how to apply.

The pilot program is an initiative of the Small and Family Business First Action Statement.

Topics

Last updated:
23 October 2025