Wages and assistance for apprentices and trainees
Wages and entitlements
Since 1 January 2010, all employers and employees in Queensland, including apprentices and trainees, with the exception of those within state and local government and some Queensland Government owned corporations, have their wages and conditions of employment covered by the Fair Work Act 2009 and Modern Awards.
Parties with questions regarding wages, entitlements and wage progression are advised to phone the Fair Work Infoline on 13 13 94 or visit www.fairwork.gov.au for assistance in determining the correct industrial instrument and entitlements.
Apprentices in the building and construction industry may also find Know Your Worth website informative. This website provides general details on wages, leave, allowances, staying safe at work, discrimination, etc specifically for the building and construction industry.
Being paid for off-the-job training
Apprentices and trainees must be released from work without loss of pay to attend their off-the-job (college) training and in many cases they are entitled to payment of wages for all time they spend off-the-job training, regardless of when or where it is done (even in some cases at home).
However, this may not apply to school-based apprentices and trainees. The relevant industrial relations provisions applicable to the employer will specify whether the school-based apprentice or trainee is paid for time spent undertaking off-the-job training.
Commonwealth Government assistance
The Commonwealth Government provides assistance for apprentices and trainees, including:
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living away from home allowance
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tutorial assistance, interpreter and mentor services.
Contact your Australian Apprenticeships Centre for more information. To find the Australian Apprenticeships Centre closest to you, phone 13 38 73.
You may also be eligible for Youth Allowance or a similar assistance. As part of this assistance, you may be eligible for the Health Care Card that may entitle you to a reduction in some of the costs of your training. Phone Centrelink on 13 24 90, or visit the Centrelink office in your local area, for more information.
