Budget 2020 – $1.2 billion investment for 100,000 new apprentices  

The Morrison Government is committed to getting people into jobs and ensuring that  Australians have the right skills for the jobs of the future. We have prioritised skills  development as part of our Jobmaker Plan.  

The Government recognises that apprenticeships are a key pathway into the workforce.  

We have already put in place the $2.8 billion Supporting Apprentices and Trainees wage  subsidy to ensure apprentices and trainees in work remain engaged and are able to support the  economic recovery. This is expected to support 90,000 employers to keep up to  180,000 apprentices and trainees in employment and training.  

I am pleased to advise that to invest further in Australia’s training system and skills pipeline,  the Government has committed an additional $1.2 billion through our Boosting  Apprenticeship Commencements Wage Subsidy, to boost the number of new  apprenticeships and traineeships.  

This will support up to 100,000 new apprentices and trainees by paying a 50 per cent wage  subsidy for commencing apprentices and trainees at businesses of all sizes, in all industries,  and in all locations. 

Businesses will receive the 50% wage subsidy, up to a cap of $7,000 per quarter, for  commencing apprentices and trainees, including those employed by Group Training  Organisations, for the period up to 30 September 2021.  

Existing workers embarking on a new apprenticeship will be included in this scheme to  support upskilling and reskilling.  

I strongly encourage you or your members to explore taking up the apprenticeship wage  subsidy, to drive employment and growth and get Australians back into jobs.  

For more information or help to find and recruit an apprentice or trainee, visit  australianapprenticeships.gov.au/employers. The website contains contact details for your  local Australian Apprenticeship Network Provider, who can advise you about the full range  of apprenticeship incentives for which your business may be eligible.  

Yours sincerely 

Senator the Hon Michaelia Cash 

09/10/2020