Apprenticeship wage subsidy scheme extended

The federal government has extended its wage subsidy scheme for apprentices and trainees for another year, ending 30 September 2021.

The scheme was introduced in 2020 as part of the government’s economic response to COVID-19. Under the scheme, 50 per cent of the wages of apprentices and trainees are subsidised. According to the government the scheme has helped create 100,000 apprenticeships so far.

In total, the scheme is expected to provide up to $1.2 billion in wage subsidies for employers and more work opportunities for apprentices.

According to a joint media release from the Prime Minister and the Minister for Employment, Skills, Small and Family Business:

• The Program will now become demand driven and expanded for a full 12 months for new apprentices and trainees signed up prior to 30 September 2021.
• It is estimated that this demand driven expansion will generate around 70,000 new apprentice and trainee places.