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    Apprenticeships and traineeships

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    Get paid while you train. Apprenticeships and traineeships let you gain practical experience at work while studying for a nationally recognised qualification.

    We’re here to help you build a career you can be proud of. Find out how to apply and start today.

    Before you start

    Starting an apprenticeship or traineeship? Here are some ways to prepare:

    Explore

    Talk

    Chat with an Apprenticeship Connect Australia Provider (ACAP) to:

    • choose the right apprenticeship or traineeship
    • find an employer
    • access ongoing support and advice.

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    Search for apprenticeships and traineeships with:

    Try before you commit

    Not sure yet? Fee-free pre-apprenticeship and pre-traineeship courses let you test whether you’ve made the right choice for you. They also count towards your full qualification if you continue.

    For more information, call us on 131 601 or visit the webpage below.

    Test your trade

    When you’re ready to begin

    Your ACAP, employer and TAFE NSW will guide you through the process. You can start in February or July, depending on when you sign up with your ACAP.

    The process is simple:

    1. Sign your contract and Training Plan Proposal (TPP)
      Your ACAP will help you and your employer prepare these documents.
    2. Your ACAP sends us your TPP
      This usually happens within 48 hours.
    3. We review and approve your TPP
      We’ll check your course is available and return the signed TPP to your ACAP, usually within 2 weeks.
    4. Enrol with TAFE NSW
      When enrolments open, we’ll confirm your place and send you an enrolment link or form. If you’re under 17, a parent or guardian must co-sign.
    5. Your ACAP lodges your TPP and contract
      Your ACAP submits these to Training Services for approval, usually within 2 weeks.
    6. Registration complete
      Once Training Services approves everything, your apprenticeship or traineeship is officially registered. You’ll receive a confirmation letter and Training ID.
    7. Develop your Training Plan
      We’ll work with you and your employer to set key dates, assessments and milestones. This happens within 12 weeks of contract approval.

    Once these steps are done, you’re ready to start learning on the job.

    Start your career with job-ready training

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    Fee-free apprenticeships

    Start a fee-free apprenticeship in a high-demand trade. Earn a wage while you learn and build the practical skills you need for a rewarding, long-term career. Apply today.

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    Smart and Skilled fee-free traineeships

    Launch your career with a Smart and Skilled fee-free traineeship. Gain experience, earn a wage, and get qualified with your course fees fully covered until June 2027.

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    School-Based Apprenticeships and Traineeships (SBAT)

    Get a head start on your career while you're still at school. Earn a wage, gain real experience, and build industry connections to finish your HSC job-ready with an SBAT.

    Study as an interstate student

    If you live outside NSW, you may still be able to study with TAFE NSW as an apprentice or trainee. Your home state or territory may help cover some of your training costs.

    Eligibility, funding and course availability vary by state. Not all courses are subsidised and you must meet your home state’s requirements. Learn more about interstate apprenticeships and traineeships below.

    Interstate students
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    Apprenticeship and traineeship employers

    Discover the benefits of hiring an apprentice or trainee. Learn how to access financial incentives, manage contracts easily, and use our online employer services today.

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    Recognition and Credit Transfer

    Get the credit you deserve for your existing skills and past studies. Apply for Recognition of Prior Learning to count your experience toward a qualification and finish faster.

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    Student support services

    Access free support to help you succeed, from counselling and study help to disability assistance. Our consultants offer confidential guidance tailored to your specific needs.

    We’re here to help

    Have questions about apprenticeships or traineeships? Call 131 601 or send us an enquiry below.

    Enquire now