Find out how much apprentices and trainees earn

How much do apprentices and trainees get paid?

Apprentices and trainees are paid according to the industry you're working in, with minimum pay rates for apprentices set by the Fair Work Commission. You can also use the Fair Work Ombudsman’s Pay and Conditions Tool (PACT) to calculate what you could earn, including the base pay, overtime, leave, and other entitlements. These minimum rates are a guide, as many employers offer higher wages to attract and retain apprentices/trainees.

What is the average starting salary for an apprentice or trainee?

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The average starting salary for an apprentice or trainee in Australia varies depending on your age, the industry, specific trade, and whether you have completed school.

School leavers under 21 can generally expect to earn between $500 and $700 per week in their first year. If you are 21+ you will often earn more, with a first-year plumber earning around $954.10 per week. If you didn’t complete Year 12, you may earn less than $500 per week.

What affects apprentice and trainee pay?

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The following factors can influence how much you get paid as an apprentice or trainee:

  •   Priority occupations, like aged carers, may be eligible for financial support and incentives.
  •   Some employers offer higher wages to attract and retain apprentices/trainees.
  •   Age: older apprentices/trainees (21+) are often paid more.
  •   School leavers generally receive higher first-year wages.
  •   Pay typically increases as you progress through your apprenticeship or traineeship.
  •   Some employers may raise your pay based on performance.

What federal government support and incentives are available for apprentices and trainees?

As an Australian apprentice or trainee, you may be eligible for financial support from the federal government. These are the current federal incentives which are running:

Australian Apprenticeship Support Loan (AASL)

Under the AASL from 1 July 2025, you may be eligible to borrow up to $25,983 to assist with living and learning expenses during your apprenticeship. Upon completing your training, a 20% discount will be applied to the borrowed amount.

Repayments are flexible - you choose how much to borrow, up to the lifetime limit of $25,983. Repayment begins through the tax system once your annual income exceeds the compulsory repayment threshold, which is $67,000 for the 2025-26 tax year.

An award is a legal document outlining the minimum pay rates and conditions of employment for specific industries. Apprentices and trainees are covered by awards, which specify their minimum pay rates and conditions during their training.

Yes, high demand trades like construction and electrical often offer higher wages. Use the Fair Work Pay Calculator to research specific pay rates by sector.

The Australian Apprentice Training Support Payment applies to both apprentices and trainees undertaking a Certificate III or higher in a priority occupation. Payments are made every six months for up to two years: up to $5,000 for full-time and $2,500 for part-time. Eligibility requires ongoing training with an employer and inclusion on the Australian Apprenticeship Priority List.

Apprentices employed in occupations listed as New Energy or Housing Construction Apprenticeships on the Australian Apprenticeship Priority List may qualify for the Key Apprenticeship Program Payment. This incentive provides up to $10,000 for full-time apprenticeships and up to $5,000 for part-time apprenticeships. To be eligible, employers must ensure apprentices receive meaningful exposure, experience, and work within the New Energy and Housing Construction industries.

Yes, apprentices and trainees are entitled to overtime and penalty rates under most awards. These apply when working outside standard hours, such as weekends or public holidays. Check your specific award for details.

Besides your wage, you may be eligible for travel, tool allowances, and superannuation contributions from your employer.

If you’re moving out of your parent’s or guardian’s home for the first time to begin or continue your apprenticeship or traineeship, you could qualify for the Living Away From Home Allowance (LAFHA). This tax-free weekly payment helps cover the additional costs of living independently and decreases as you advance through your training:

  • First year: $120 per week
  • Second year: $90 per week
  • Third year: $45 per week

  • Youth Allowance supports full-time students and apprentices/trainees under 25, and job seekers under 21, with payments based on income and assets tests.

  • Austudy provides financial assistance to full-time students and apprentices/trainees aged 25 and over, also subject to income and assets assessments.

  • ABSTUDY offers targeted support for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students and apprentices/trainees, covering living costs, travel, and study expenses, with eligibility determined by income and assets.

Frequently asked questions

You can also browse the most common questions around this topic below:

What is an award?

An award is a legal document outlining the minimum pay rates and conditions of employment for specific industries. Apprentices and trainees are covered by awards, which specify their minimum pay rates and conditions during their training.

Yes, high demand trades like construction and electrical often offer higher wages. Use the Fair Work Pay Calculator to research specific pay rates by sector.

Yes, apprentices and trainees are entitled to overtime and penalty rates under most awards. These apply when working outside standard hours, such as weekends or public holidays. Check your specific award for details.

Besides your wage, you may be eligible for travel, tool allowances, and superannuation contributions from your employer.

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