Apprentice Support Programs
Housing Construction Apprenticeship Program (HCAP)
The Housing Construction Apprenticeship Program provides comprehensive support for employers taking on construction apprentices.
Key Benefits
- $10,000 total support per apprentice
- Milestone payments over 3+ years
- Priority hiring incentives
- Training support and mentorship
Payment Schedule
| Milestone | Payment Amount | Timing |
|---|---|---|
| 6 months completed | $2,000 | After 6 months continuous employment |
| 12 months completed | $2,000 | After 12 months continuous employment |
| 24 months completed | $2,000 | After 24 months continuous employment |
| 36 months completed | $2,000 | After 36 months continuous employment |
| Qualification completed | $2,000 | Upon successful completion |
| Total | $10,000 | Over apprenticeship duration |
Eligible Trades
Building and Construction:
- Carpentry and joinery
- Wall and floor tiling
- Painting and decorating
- Bricklaying/blocklaying
- Concreting
- Solid plastering
Services Trades:
- Plumbing
- Electrical (electrician)
- Air conditioning and refrigeration
- Fire protection technician
- Glazier
- Roof plumbing and roof tiling
- Locksmith
Eligibility Requirements
For Employers:
- Valid construction industry license
- Workers compensation insurance
- Compliance with WHS requirements
- Ability to provide quality training
- Commitment to complete apprenticeship
For Apprentices:
- Australian citizen or eligible visa holder
- Enrolled in approved qualification
- Signed training contract
- Working minimum 25 hours/week
Australian Apprenticeship Support Loans
Financial Support Available
Living expenses support:
- Up to $21,970 per year
- Paid fortnightly
- Income support during training
Additional allowances:
- Living Away From Home Allowance: Up to $120/week
- Trade Tools Allowance: Up to $800
- Tutorial Allowance: Up to $500/year
How to Access
- Apply through Australian Apprenticeship Support Network
- Contact local Australian Apprenticeship Support Network provider
- Complete application with employer and RTO
- Begin receiving payments within 4-6 weeks
Priority Hiring Incentive
Extended Until December 31, 2025
Additional support for employers:
- $5,000 bonus payment for eligible apprentices
- Focus on trades experiencing skills shortages
- Streamlined application process
Eligible Industries
- Construction and building
- Automotive
- Manufacturing
- Information technology
- Healthcare
- Agriculture
Regional and Remote Support
Additional Benefits for Regional Employers
Living Away From Home Allowance:
- Up to $120/week for apprentices
- Covers accommodation costs
- Reduces barriers for rural employment
Fares Allowance:
- Travel costs to training providers
- Up to $6,000 per year
- Reduces financial burden on apprentices
Group Training Organizations (GTOs)
Benefits of Using GTOs
For Small Employers:
- Shared training costs
- Reduced administrative burden
- Access to experienced mentors
- Flexibility in apprentice placement
Popular GTOs:
- MIGAS (Manufacturing and Engineering)
- MEGT (Multiple industries)
- INTREC (Construction and infrastructure)
- AGA (Automotive and engineering)
Women in Trades Support
Encouraging Female Participation
Additional support includes:
- Female mentorship programs
- Flexible training arrangements
- Safe workplace initiatives
- Career pathway guidance
Target trades:
- Electrical
- Plumbing
- Carpentry
- Automotive
- Engineering
Training and Qualifications
Registered Training Organizations (RTOs)
TAFE Institutes:
- Nationally recognized qualifications
- Industry-standard facilities
- Experienced trainers
- Strong employer partnerships
Private RTOs:
- Specialized training programs
- Flexible delivery options
- Industry-specific focus
- Customized learning paths
Qualification Pathways
Certificate III (Traditional Apprenticeship):
- 3-4 years duration
- Comprehensive trade skills
- Full trade qualification
- Higher earning potential
Certificate II (Pre-apprenticeship):
- 6-12 months duration
- Foundation skills
- Pathway to full apprenticeship
- Entry-level positions
Support Services
For Employers
Australian Apprenticeship Support Network:
- Free advice and assistance
- Help with paperwork and applications
- Ongoing support throughout apprenticeship
- Conflict resolution services
Contact: 13 38 73
For Apprentices
Mental Health Support:
- Beyond Blue: 1300 224 636
- Lifeline: 13 11 14
- Kids Helpline: 1800 551 800
Career Guidance:
- Career counselling services
- Skills assessment and recognition
- Career pathway planning
Success Stories
Case Study 1: Small Building Company
“The HCAP program allowed us to take on two apprentices when we couldn’t afford the full cost. The milestone payments helped with cash flow, and now we have two qualified tradespeople.”
Result: Grew from 3 to 7 employees over 4 years
Case Study 2: Regional Electrical Business
“Living Away From Home Allowance made it possible for young people from small towns to train with us. We now have a steady pipeline of skilled electricians.”
Result: Reduced skills shortage, improved service delivery
Next Steps for Employers
Getting Started
- Assess your needs - Determine apprentice requirements
- Contact support - Call Australian Apprenticeship Support Network
- Plan training - Identify suitable RTO partners
- Apply for incentives - Submit applications for available programs
- Begin recruitment - Advertise positions and interview candidates
Important Contacts
- Australian Apprenticeships: 13 38 73
- HCAP Program: 1800 40 20 40
- Skills Australia: 1800 677 093
Last Updated: August 2025
Source: Department of Employment and Workplace Relations
This guide provides general information only. For specific advice about your situation, contact the Australian Apprenticeship Support Network.