Apprenticeships, Traineeships and Trade Pathways

Apprenticeships are generally trade-based qualifications that combine paid employment with training over three to four years.

Traineeships are typically completed over 12 months or more and focus on vocational occupations across a range of industries.

Apprenticeships and traineeships are employment-based training programs, which means you'll generally need to secure employment with an employer before commencing training. 

If you're unsure where to start, our team can help you understand available pathways, training requirements and next steps.

Australian Apprenticeship Support Network (AASN) providers support employers, apprentices and trainees throughout the apprenticeship journey. They assist with training contracts, administration, government incentives and ongoing support. 

An AASN provider is usually the first point of contact when starting an apprenticeship or traineeship.

Australian Apprenticeships Support Network (AASN)(opens in a new tab)

Financial incentives may be available through the Western Australian and Australian Governments to assist eligible employers with the cost of employing apprentices and trainees. Support may also be available for eligible apprentices and trainees.

Employer Incentives(opens in a new tab)

Yes. Apprenticeships and traineeships are employment-based training programs, which means an employer is generally required before a training contract can begin. 

For prospective apprentices and trainees, this means you'll usually need to secure employment with an employer before commencing an apprenticeship or traineeship. If you're not yet employed, a pre-apprenticeship can be a great way to gain practical skills, industry knowledge and workplace experience while preparing for future opportunities. 

For employers, once you have identified a suitable apprentice or trainee, an Australian Apprenticeship Support Network (AASN) provider can assist with establishing the training contract and connecting you with a training provider. Central Regional TAFE will then work with you and your apprentice or trainee to develop a Training Plan and support the training journey.

Australian Apprenticeships Support Network (AASN)(opens in a new tab)

Apprenticeship Office(opens in a new tab)

Yes. Completing a pre-apprenticeship can provide practical skills, workplace experience and a competitive advantage when applying for apprenticeship opportunities. 

It can also help you determine whether a trade or industry is the right fit before committing to a full apprenticeship.

A Training Plan is developed between the apprentice or trainee, employer and Central Regional TAFE. It outlines the training and assessment requirements, workplace learning requirements, training delivery arrangements and responsibilities of each party. 

Training Plans help ensure everyone understands their role throughout the apprenticeship or traineeship.

Central Regional TAFE works closely with apprentices, trainees and employers to deliver training, monitor progress and provide support throughout the training journey. 

Our teams are available to help with enrolment, training requirements, student support and general enquiries.

Australian Apprenticeship Support Network (AASN) providers support employers, apprentices and trainees throughout the apprenticeship journey. They assist with training contracts, administration, government incentives and ongoing support. 

An AASN provider is usually the first point of contact when starting an apprenticeship or traineeship.

Apprenticeships Office(opens in a new tab)

Phone: 13 19 54
Email: apprenticeshipoffice@dtwd.wa.gov.au

Some apprentices may be eligible for travel and accommodation assistance when travelling long distances to attend off-the-job training. Eligibility requirements apply and support is administered through the Apprenticeship Office.

Travel and Accommodation Assistance(opens in a new tab)

Some apprenticeship qualifications have additional licensing or regulatory requirements.

For example:

• Electrical apprentices require a Training Licence before attending training.
• Plumbing apprentices may require specific licences before undertaking gas-related units.

Additional licensing requirements vary between industries and qualifications.

Apprenticeship Office(opens in a new tab)

An apprenticeship or traineeship is completed when all workplace and training requirements have been successfully achieved. 

Once completion requirements have been met, relevant documentation is processed through Central Regional TAFE and the Apprenticeship Office. 

Graduates may then move directly into employment, continue working with their employer or progress into post-trade qualifications and further study opportunities.

Yes. Post-trade qualifications and higher-level training opportunities can help you specialise, upskill and progress your career. 

Many graduates continue their training to gain advanced skills, leadership capabilities or specialised industry knowledge.