Government Incentives for Apprentices
If you’re an apprentice or thinking about starting an apprenticeship, there’s good news: you’re not on your own. The government actually offers a heap of financial support to help you get through the early years — and it’s not just pocket change. These incentives are designed to make life a bit easier while you're learning the ropes, getting qualified, and building a trade career.
Now most of this stuff isn’t well advertised, and no one really sits you down and explains it — so let’s break it down. From one tradie to another, here are the government-backed incentives and payments that could be coming your way if you’re on the tools.
Australian Apprenticeships Incentive System
The main umbrella program that handles apprenticeship incentives is called the Australian Apprenticeships Incentive System (AAIS). This is the Federal Government's way of encouraging people to take up trades and making sure employers can afford to train you.
Here’s what’s currently available to apprentices under this system:
1. Apprentice Training Support Payment
This is the big one. If you're undertaking a qualification in a priority occupation, you can receive up to $5,000 over two years, paid in instalments:
$1,250 every six months
Paid directly to you (not your boss)
You don’t have to apply separately — it’s usually organised through your training provider or Australian Apprenticeship Support Network (AASN).
🧠 Pro tip: Priority trades include things like carpentry, plumbing, electrical, air con/refrigeration, mechanical, etc. If you're unsure whether your trade is eligible, ask your training provider or check the National Skills Priority List.
2. Trade Support Loans (TSL)
These are like HECS for apprentices. You can access up to $24,492 over the life of your apprenticeship (as of 2024). You can take out a monthly amount (up to around $1,200) to help cover living costs, tools, travel, rent — whatever you need.
It’s voluntary — take what you need, when you need
You only start repaying once you earn above the threshold
You get a 20% discount on your total debt if you finish the apprenticeship
💰 Many apprentices use this to survive the tough early years, especially in metro areas where rent is through the roof.
3. Tools for Your Trade Payment
This one gets confused a lot. It’s a $1,000 payment provided in the first 12 months for eligible apprentices in priority trades.
It’s not a loan — it’s a free payment
Use it to buy tools, boots, PPE, uniforms, etc.
This one is automatic once your apprenticeship is registered and approved. Just make sure your paperwork is sorted through your AASN provider.
🧰 It’s a great way to take the sting out of buying your first decent kit.
4. Living Away From Home Allowance (LAFHA)
Had to move out of home for your apprenticeship? You might be eligible for LAFHA. It helps cover the costs of accommodation, food, and general living expenses if you're living away for work or study.
Paid on top of your wage
Tapered down over 3 years (starts higher, reduces gradually)
🏠 Ask your training provider or employer if you're eligible — you’ll need to prove your new living situation.
5. Centrelink Payments
If you're an apprentice doing it tough financially, you may also be eligible for Youth Allowance, Austudy or ABSTUDY (for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander apprentices).
Based on your income and assets
Payments are fortnightly and can include Rent Assistance
You can also get a Health Care Card for cheaper medical and transport
📅 These are managed through Services Australia — jump on MyGov and see what you qualify for.
6. State-Based Extras
Depending on where you live, there might be additional state or territory incentives. Some examples:
QLD: Free TAFE for apprentices under 25
VIC: Free TAFE for priority courses, Tools for Your Trade top-ups
NSW: Fee-free apprenticeships for eligible trades
🚨 These change regularly — check your state government site or ask your TAFE coordinator for the latest info.
Final Word
There’s more support out there than most apprentices realise — but you’ve got to be switched on to get it. A lot of these payments aren’t automatic. You need to:
✅ Register properly with your training provider
✅ Stay on top of your paperwork
✅ Check in with your AASN or employer
✅ Ask questions and chase it up if it’s delayed
At Intrade, we’re here to make sure you know what you’re entitled to — and that no apprentice gets left behind because they didn’t know what was on the table.
If you’re unsure what you’re eligible for, reach out. We’ll point you in the right direction and make sure you’re getting every dollar you deserve while you’re grinding through the early years.
