Whatever your apprentice, training or workforce development needs are, MRAEL has the solution. MRAEL is recognised as one of the largest and most experienced education, training and employment providers with over 30 years of local experience and knowledge. Since 1985 MRAEL has successfully employed and managed over 13,000 apprentices and trainees in a diverse range of trades and industry sectors and has expanded throughout Queensland and the Northern Territory. Recognised as an Australian Apprenticeship Support Network Provider, Group Training Organisation, Registered Training Organisation and Senior Vocational College, MRAEL consistently delivers comprehensive apprentice solutions, training and workforce development to both businesses and individuals. www.mrael.com.au MRAEL has experienced significant growth over recent years as a result of a proven reputation as an innovative, one solution provider of workforce development services. MRAEL’s geographical footprint now encompasses Queensland, the Torres Strait Islands and the Northern Territory. The continued expansion of the organisation is confirmation that MRAEL is a premier provider in all areas of our business. Torres Strai t Badu Island Islands Yam Island Warraber Island Thursday Island Bamaga Darwin Weipa Northern Territory MRAEL offers a range of flexible services to assist businesses in building the capacity and sustainability of their workforce. MRAEL have the capability to deliver each of our services in both metropolitan and regional locations, ensuring that businesses and individuals can enjoy consistent, efficient and professional services regardless of geographical location. Cooktown Cairns Townsville Mount Isa Whitsunday Queens land Mackay Moranbah Longreach Emerald Blackwater Rockhampton Gladstone Bundaberg Roma Dalby Gympie Hervey Bay Sunshine Coast Kingaroy Scarborough Toowoomba Brisbane Ipswich Gold Coast Through our continued expansion, MRAEL is striving to contribute to the sustainable development of a skilled workforce for the future by creating additional education, training and employment opportunities for the communities in which we operate. Apprentice Services ENTICE MRAEL’s Apprentice Services provide a range of flexible solutions to assist businesses with their apprentice employment and management needs. Career Advice & Work Readiness EMPOWER Professional Development & Training One Solution EMPLOY Total Management of Apprentice Lifecycle ENGAGE School Based & Full Time Apprentices and Trainees MRAEL’s philosophy of innovation in service delivery, focus on continuous improvement and commitment to apprentice wellbeing has resulted in a suite of programs that are designed to support businesses and their individual needs. Apprentice Employment Program The MRAEL Apprentice Employment Program provides an effective way to manage apprentices and trainees from commencement to completion. As the legal employer, MRAEL will facilitate recruitment, selection, retention, payroll, performance and training management, and will monitor work health and safety and the overall wellbeing of apprentices and trainees. Apprentice Solutions | Training | Workforce Development Apprentice Employment Program services are flexible and provide businesses with the opportunity to have as much input and ownership into the apprentice management as desired. The MRAEL Apprentice Employment Program is the ideal ‘total solution’ for businesses seeking a comprehensive apprentice and trainee management service that provides access to expert mentoring, pastoral care and support for both the Partner Organisation and the apprentice or trainee. Apprentice Management Program The MRAEL Apprentice Management Program provides an effective solution for businesses who want to remain the legal employer of their apprentices and trainees, while being able to access the apprentice management expertise of MRAEL. MRAEL can assist with apprentice and trainee recruitment, selection, onboarding, performance and training management, monitoring and overall wellbeing. Apprentice Management Program services are flexible and provide businesses with expert support and assistance to effectively manage their apprentices and trainees. The program is ideal for employers with existing workers who want to obtain a nationally recognised qualification or undertake further formal training. Apprentice Connect Program The Apprentice Connect Program is an online management platform, developed by MRAEL to effectively and efficiently manage relationships with apprentices, trainees and Partner Organisations. The Apprentice Connect Program enables apprentices and Partner Organisations to interact with MRAEL through specially developed web-based technology and mobile applications. The virtual approach of the Apprentice Connect Program not only provides increased efficiencies and benefits from a service delivery perspective, but also the opportunity to cater to a wider geographical footprint, meaning that additional apprenticeship and traineeship opportunities can be created in rural and remote areas. Australian Apprenticeship Support Network ACE Apprenticeships Centre MRAEL’s ACE Apprenticeships Centre operates throughout Queensland and the Torres Strait Islands under a contract from the Australian Government. As an Australian Apprenticeship Support Network Provider, ACE provides advice and support services, tailored to the needs of employers and apprentices, throughout the apprenticeship lifecycle from pre-commencement to completion. Services include: Universal services - for all employers, apprentices and trainees, providing essential administrative support, payment processing and regular contact; and Targeted services - for employers and individuals assessed as needing additional support to achieve successful completion of the apprenticeship or traineeship. Services provided by ACE Apprenticeships Centre are free to employers, apprentices and trainees and are funded by the Australian Government. Apprentice Solutions | Training | Workforce Development Training Services MRAEL’s two Registered Training Organisations (RTOs), Australian Trade Training College and The Training Academy, are training providers registered by the Australian Skills Quality Authority (ASQA) to deliver vocational education and training (VET) services. RTOs are recognised as providers of quality assured and nationally recognised training and qualifications. MRAEL’s RTOs can assist with a range of training requirements, including traditional trades, soft skills and corporate short courses. Flexible study options are available and include remote access using eLearning resources and web-based communication, or as a mix of classroom and online delivery in areas such as: • Automotive Technology • Engineering • Beauty • Hospitality • Building & Construction (including white card) • Plumbing • Cabinet Making • Electrotechnology • Business & Retail Services • Education • Information Technology Australian Trade Training College Ltd National Training Provider Number 31399 The Training Academy National Training Provider Number 30017 Senior Schooling A subsidiary of MRAEL Group, Australian Trade College North Brisbane provides a trade focused environment for Year 11 and 12 students to complete their Queensland Certificate of Education (QCE) while finishing up to 45% of their trade. Located at Scarborough near the Redcliffe Peninsula, Australian Trade College North Brisbane boasts a state of the art campus equipped with trade workshops and facilities. The MRAEL Units MRAEL maintains a complex of 12 units (total of 26 rooms) in Mackay. Rooms are leased to apprentices and trainees who require short term, temporary accommodation. Regionally located apprentices and trainees use the accommodation when they are on block release in Mackay. To find out how MRAEL can assist you, call our friendly team on 1300 4 MRAEL (1300 467 235) or visit www.mrael.com.au 16-09-15 P 1300 4 MRAEL (1300 467 235) • E people@mrael.com.au • W www.mrael.com.au The Australian Apprenticeship Support Network Code of Conduct July 2015 This Code applies to all Apprenticeship Network providers and their staff. It represents the minimum standards to be applied in all their dealings with employers, Australian Apprentices and other interested persons. The aim of the Code The aim of the Code is to ensure the delivery of high quality support services, with high standards of ethical behaviour exhibited to all parties concerned. The Code of Conduct In respect of employers and individuals, Apprenticeship Network providers will provide: • accurate, current and comprehensive information and advice to employers, Australian Apprentices and other interested persons on: –– training products and delivery options appropriate to the needs of employers, particularly current nationally endorsed Training Packages; –– the range of employment options (e.g. full-time, part-time, school-based or through Group Training Organisations); –– advice on the process for assessing Recognition of Prior Learning/Recognition of Current Competencies; –– their rights and obligations under Training Contracts e.g. employers’ requirements to release Australian Apprentices to attend the off-the-job training components of Training Packages or Australian Apprentices’ obligations to attend work, including off-the-job training; –– Australian Apprenticeships Incentives Programme payments and allowances; –– Trade Support Loans information and sign-up administration; –– an employer’s right to choose a Registered Training Organisation that best suits the needs and the services provided in the region; and –– industrial relations matters, which may include referral to appropriate industrial relations agencies or employer organisations; • appropriate and relevant aptitude and assessment tools which meet Departmental Guidelines, to assist individuals find suitable training; • provide Gateway services to individuals who seek this assistance, including prospective Australian Apprentices, employers and individuals interested in information about a non-apprenticeship VET pathway; • the capacity to connect prospective employers with prospective apprentices, either directly, through Employment Services Providers or through links with a job placement agency; • Australian Apprentices with connections to appropriate training to provide them with the required skills for their employer; 13 38 73 www.australianapprenticeships.gov.au Your Life. Your Career. Your Future. • advice, pastoral care support and interventions through In-training support is to be delivered as required to assist employers and Australian Apprentices through to completion; • advertising and information material that identifies the requirements of Australian Apprenticeships, that is consistent with all Australian Government and State legal requirements and reflects truth, accuracy and good taste; and • a process for employers, Australian Apprentices and other interested persons to notify inadequacies or problems in the delivery of support services under the Australian Apprenticeship Support Network. In respect of the Department of Education and Training, the Apprenticeship Network provider will: • provide accurate and complete information in relation to claims for payment under contractual arrangements and the determining of eligibility for Australian Apprenticeships Incentives Programme payments and Trade Support Loans; • comply with Australian Government fraud control and risk management requirements; • work closely, cooperatively and openly with State and Territory Training Authorities and comply fully with State and Territory administrative and legislative requirements in relation to Australian Apprenticeships and the provision of information relating to their dealings with employers and Australian Apprentices; and • participate completely in and support national arrangements for the promotion and growth of Australian Apprenticeships. In particular, they will reflect this in their dealings with employers, Australian Apprentices and other interested persons and organisations, including other Service Providers and Registered Training Organisations. In adhering to the Code of Conduct, Apprenticeship Network providers must: • be open and honest at all times; • be respectful and courteous in their dealings with all clients; • refrain from making false or misleading statements to employers and Australian Apprentices in relation to eligibility for both Australian Government and State and Territory Government Australian Apprenticeships Incentives; • be easy to contact by telephone, facsimile and email during normal business hours as well as maintaining easily accessible premises; • respond quickly and accurately to requests for information; • treat complaints seriously, learn from them, maintain a Complaints Register and publicise the complaints handling process; • comply with obligations under laws including (but not limited to): –– the Trade Support Loans Act 2014; –– the Australian Privacy Principles (AAPs) under the Privacy Act 1988; –– the Freedom of Information Act 1982; and –– the Competition and Consumer ACT 2010; • not seek or accept fees, benefits or advantages either directly or indirectly from employers, Australian Apprentices or other interested persons outside the Shared Costs arrangements endorsed by the Department of Education and Training; • make available to any interested persons, details of the controls and arrangements put in place to manage conflict of interest matters, where such conflicts exist; • maintain up-to-date knowledge in respect of all aspects of Australian Apprenticeships, particularly Training Packages available within industry sectors; • maintain up-to-date knowledge in respect of general VET training nationally and within the Service Provider’s state or territory; and • ensure that a positive reputation and outlook for Australian Apprenticeships is promoted to State and Territory Training Authorities, other key stakeholders and the community. • inform clients of their rights, obligations and entitlements; Compliance with the Code • ensure that provision of information is current, accurate, impartial and consistent; Apprenticeship Network Providers will be bound to the Code of Conduct through their contract with the Australian Government (Department of Education and Training). Apprenticeship Network providers should display a copy of the Code and ensure that all employers, Australian Apprentices and other interested persons are fully aware of it. • ensure that advice about training options, particularly National Training Packages, best reflects the training needs of the employer and the Australian Apprentice; • adhere to the Australian Apprenticeships Incentives Programme Guidelines and the Trade Support Loan Guidelines when determining eligibility and processing claims for Australian Apprenticeships Incentives including Trade Support Loans; 13 38 73 www.australianapprenticeships.gov.au Your Life. Your Career. Your Future. ED15-0136 • an ongoing point of contact for both employers and Australian Apprentices for the duration of the apprenticeship to help ensure successful apprenticeship completions; YOUR GUIDE TO AUSTRALIAN APPRENTICESHIPS 1300 ACE 4 MRAEL (1300 223 467) www.mrael.com.au WHAT ARE AUSTRALIAN APPRENTICESHIPS? ‘Australian Apprenticeships’ is the term used to describe all apprenticeships and traineeships. Australian Apprenticeships allow you to earn money while working your way towards a nationally recognised qualification, and are a great way to break into the industry of your dreams or upskill yourself to fast track in your current career. Australian Apprenticeships may be full time, part time or school based, and are competency based so your previous experience will be recognised. Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) means that you can complete your qualification at your own pace and even complete early. The length of your apprenticeship or traineeship varies according to industry and the level of the qualification you’re undertaking. WHY DO AN AUSTRALIAN APPRENTICESHIP? • Over 500 nationally recognised qualifications across all industries. • Flexible training delivery. • Gain a nationally recognised qualification and fast track your career. • Increase your earning potential. • Fast track your training through Recognition of Prior Learning. • Gain a nationally recognised workplace qualification while still at school through an Australian school based apprenticeship. WHO IS INVOLVED? STRALIAN APPREN S AN AU TICE A : U ... YO Australian Apprenticeship Support Network Provider (ACE) Your Employer Registered Training Organisation You: The Apprentice or Trainee You could be a new employee entering a new industry or an existing worker wanting to develop your skills. Your Employer The company you are currently working for. Parents/Guardians If you are under 18 years of age, a parent or guardian must sign the training contract. Registered Training Organisation (RTO) The organisation that will be delivering your training, conducting assessments and issuing the nationally recognised qualification. Training may take place on the job or away from your workplace. Parent/ Guardian (if under 18 years) State Training Authority (State Government) Department of Education and Training (Australian Government) Department of Education and Training The Australian Government Department responsible for apprenticeship and traineeship policies and funding throughout Australia. Australian Apprenticeship Support Network (AASN) Provider An organisation, such as ACE Apprenticeships Centre, contracted by the Australian Government to provide a free service to employers and apprentices or trainees to assist them with the sign-up, administration and management of Australian Apprenticeships. State Training Authority (STA) The Queensland State Government is responsible for registering your National Training Contract. Any changes to your National Training Contract must be approved by the Queensland State Government. WHAT HAPPENS DURING MY A I’M READY TO GO! HOW DO I GET STARTED? Step One You will need to find an employer who will offer you an Australian Apprenticeship or discuss with your current employer the possibility of gaining recognition for your current skills and training. Employment must be permanent and either full time, part time or school-based. When you and your employer are ready to go, you will need to complete a National Training Contract. The National Training Contract must be completed with a representative of an Australian Apprenticeship Support Network Provider. Your ACE Field Officer will be ready to assist you and your employer with completing the necessary paperwork. If you are under 18 years of age, your parent or guardian must also sign the National Training Contract. The National Training Contract is a legally binding document that outlines the agreed length of training and the type of apprenticeship or traineeship that you are undertaking. All National Training Contracts come with a Probation Period. The probation period varies between 30 and 90 days depending on the type of apprenticeship or traineeship. During this time either party may cancel the contract without the other parties consent. After the probation period, cancellations must be mutual. One party cancellations after the probation period must be approved by the State Training Authority. ACE recommends discussing cancellations with your ACE Field Officer prior to cancelling. AUSTRALIAN APPRENTICESHIP? HOW DOES THE TRAINING HAPPEN? Step Two Prior to signing your National Training Contract, you and your employer need to choose an STA accredited Registered Training Organisation (RTO). Your ACE Field Officer can assist you in choosing the right RTO that will best suit your needs. The RTO will then negotiate a Training Plan that suits your training requirements. The training plan should be completed during the probation period. The training plan outlines how your training will be delivered and must be signed by you, your employer and your RTO representative. The RTO will also issue you with a training record book which contains all of the competencies and assessments that you will need to complete during the course of your apprenticeship or traineeship. As you progress, each competency will be signed by you, your workplace supervisor and your trainer. It is your responsibility to ensure that your training record book is completed and it should remain at the workplace in a secure place. The Queensland State Government may cover part or all of the costs of training depending on the type of apprenticeship or traineeship you are undertaking. This is called User Choice Funding. Also, there are incentives that may be available to your employer that cover the costs of training. There may be a student contribution fee payable to the RTO. As part of your training, you will also need to obtain a Unique Student Identifier (USI). A USI provides you with a secure online record of your nationally recognised training that you can access anytime and anywhere, and it’s yours for life. You can apply for a USI online at http://www.usi.gov.au, or you can ask for assistance from your RTO. You must obtain a USI as soon as possible after commencing your Australian Apprenticeship. Your RTO will not be able to issue your qualification or any statement of attainment without your USI. NEED HELP? If you are having issues that you cannot discuss with your employer you can contact your ACE Field Officer or the Queensland State Training Authority. If you are having a training related issues you should contact your RTO representative or Trainer. ACE encourages you to deal with any problems or issue immediately. We are here to help you, so feel free to contact us. Cancellation of Training Contract Cancellation of a Training Contract can only occur through the completion of a cancellation form. Contact your ACE Apprenticeships Centre for assistance. Wages, Entitlements and Allowances As an apprentice or trainee you are entitled to be paid wages according to the Agreement or Award under which you are employed. Information on wages and conditions of employment can be obtained by contacting Fair Work Australia on 13 13 94. WHAT HAPPENS DURING MY A ONGOING SUPPORT? Step T hree 6 month contact At the six month point in your training you and your employer will be contacted by an ACE Field Officer to make sure all is progressing well. This is a great opportunity to raise any concerns you may have. However, ACE encourages all apprentices or trainees and employers to contact their ACE Field Officer to discuss issues as they arise. Remember, we are here to help. The monitoring visits may take place in person or over the phone. 12 and 24 month contacts Depending on your type of apprenticeship or traineeship, you will be contacted again at the 12 month point. If your apprenticeship or traineeship runs for longer than 24 months, you and your employer will be contacted again to discuss your progress. Once again, if you have any issues throughout the duration of your apprenticeship or traineeship, you can always contact your ACE Field Officer. MY CONTACTS My ACE Field Officer is: My RTO is ............................................................................................................................ ...................................................................................................................... ............................................................................................................................ ...................................................................................................................... Their contact details are: Their contact details are: ............................................................................................................................ ...................................................................................................................... ............................................................................................................................ ...................................................................................................................... Queensland State Training Authority 1800 210 210 My Unique Student Identifier (USI): .................................................................................................................. .................................................................................................................. AUSTRALIAN APPRENTICESHIP? COMPLETING MY TRAINING While your National Training Contract specifies a nominal duration, apprenticeships and traineeships are competency based and take into account your previous training and skills. If all parties agree that you have achieved the necessary competencies, you can complete your training at any stage and receive your nationally recognised qualification. If you require additional time beyond the nominal duration to complete your training, you should contact your ACE Field Officer before the end date to extend your nominal duration. Step Four Once you can demonstrate that you have achieved all the necessary competencies, your RTO will lodge a Completion Agreement with the State Training Authority. The Completion Agreement must be signed by you, your employer and your RTO representative. Congratulations! WHAT ARE MY OBLIGATIONS? When you sign the National Training Contract you are agreeing to the following: • Obtaining consent from a parent or guardian if you are under 18 years of age. • Attending and performing work in a professional manner in accordance with your employers requirements. • Making all reasonable efforts to achieve the competencies specified in the training plan and undertaking any training and assessments required. • Taking care of workplace property. • Respecting the rights of other employees in the workplace. • Remembering that any information obtained from the employer is to remain confidential and not disclosed without the permission of the employer. • Participating in the development of a training plan. • Attending training sessions and supervised workplace activities. • Maintaining a training record book. WHAT ARE MY EMPLOYERS OBLIGATIONS? When your employer signs the National Training Contract they are agreeing to: • Conform with relevant Australian Government and State legislation, including that relating to Australian Apprenticeships arrangements. • Providing a safe working environment that is free from bullying, discrimination and abuse - both verbal and physical. • Ensuring all occupational health and safety requirements have been addressed. • Providing an appropriate workplace induction. • Support structured training including: • Providing opportunities to develop knowledge and skills. • Lodging a National Training Contract and enrolling you with a Registered Training Organisation. • Participating in the development of a training plan. • Ensuring a training record is maintained. • Ensuring the STA is notified upon the completion of the training. • Providing supervision and support within the workplace and remembering that the parents or guardians are responsible for Australian Apprentices under the age of 18. • Advising you of your rights and responsibilities including: • Ensuring you feel free to raise any issue or concerns with either the workplace or the Registered Training Organisation. • Advising you of your entitlements such as wages and working conditions. • Ensuring that you are aware of assistance available from the STA. • Providing a comprehensive induction process for the commencement of your Australian Apprenticeship. WHAT FINANCIAL SUPPORT IS AVAILABLE? As an Australian Apprentice, you or your employer may be eligible to access a number of Australian or State Government initiatives including: Trade Support Loans (TSL) Trade Support Loans provide up to $20,000 to Australian Apprentices in priority areas to assist them with the costs of living and learning while undertaking an apprenticeship. A 20 percent discount is applied on the amount borrowed when the apprentice successfully completes their apprenticeship. Australian Apprentices are required to repay the loans through the tax system when their repayment income meets the repayment threshold. The loans are flexible to meet the needs of each individual. For instance an Australian Apprentice can apply for six months only to buy their tools, they could save up their first year’s payments to buy a second hand vehicle then opt-out of further payments or they can take the full loan to cover living expenses, such as rent, public transport and phone bills throughout their years of training. See your ACE Field Officer for information on Trade Support Loans. Support for Adult Australian Apprentices (SAAA) Employers of adult Australian Apprentices (25 years of age or over) commencing an apprenticeship which leads to an occupation on the National Skills Needs List may be eligible to receive a $4,000 payment after 12 months. Speak to your ACE Field Officer for information on the eligibility criteria. Living Away from Home Allowance (LAFHA) Where apprentices or trainees are required to move away from their parent’s or guardian’s home to take up an apprenticeship or traineeship, they may be eligible to receive an allowance to assist them with the cost of living. An application form should be submitted to ACE Apprenticeships Centre as soon as possible after commencing your apprenticeship or traineeship Youth Allowance Apprentices and trainees may be eligible for Youth Allowance, Austudy or ABSTUDY. For further information, please contact Centrelink to determine whether you meet the criteria for one of these allowances. Make it happen today! • Brisbane • Bundaberg • Cairns • Cooktown • Dalby • Emerald • Gladstone • Gold Coast • Hervey Bay • Ipswich • Longreach • Mackay • Moranbah • Mount Isa • Rockhampton • Scarborough • Sunshine Coast • Toowoomba • Townsville • Torres Strait Islands • Weipa • Whitsunday 1300 ACE 4 MRAEL www.mrael.com.au National Code of Good Practice for Australian Apprenticeships July 2015 Australian Apprenticeships, which may be referred to as apprenticeships and traineeships in some States and Territories, offer many benefits to employers and Australian Apprentices. Employers can take on an Australian Apprentice who is trained to understand the specific requirements of their workplace and has the skills that match their business objectives. Australian Apprentices have the chance to gain valuable work experience, develop skills and acquire a nationally recognised qualification. This Code of Good Practice has been developed to assist both parties entering into a Training Contract with a clear understanding of each other’s obligations and expectations. Both parties have a clear understanding of their contractual obligations including the duration of the Training Contract. A copy of this Code should be retained by the employer and the Australian Apprentice. Both parties are clear about available dispute resolution avenues and understand what is required to terminate the Training Contract. BOTH PARTIES THE EMPLOYER WILL: Both parties understand that there is a formal agreement to train the Australian Apprentice. This agreement is known as the Training Contract, and it sets out the legal obligations binding the employer and the Australian Apprentice. Meet legal obligations Both parties enter into the employment and training arrangement with a commitment to mutual respect, honesty and fairness. This involves: • conforming with relevant Australian Government and State/Territory legislation, including that relating to Australian Apprenticeship arrangements. Both parties agree to determine the qualification and the competencies that the Australian Apprentice is working to attain. 13 38 73 www.australianapprenticeships.gov.au Your Life. Your Career. Your Future. www.australianapprenticeships.gov.au Provide a safe working environment This involves: • ensuring that all occupational health and safety requirements are addressed; and • providing comprehensive induction processes for commencing Australian Apprentices to ensure that they are aware, from the time of commencement, of the proposed training program, workplace safety requirements and their rights and responsibilities. • providing an appropriate introduction to the workplace, stressing those core occupational health and safety requirements essential to workplace safety. THE AUSTRALIAN APPRENTICE WILL: • providing a safe workplace, free from bullying and verbal, physical, racial and sexual abuse; Support structured training This involves: Be aware of and make a commitment to fulfil work responsibilities • providing opportunities to develop knowledge and skills; This involves: • lodging Training Contract documentation with the relevant authorities, selecting a Registered Training Organisation and enrolling the Australian Apprentice within the timeframe determined by your State/Territory Training Authority; • attending and performing work in a professional and courteous manner in accordance with the employer’s requirements; • participating in the development of the training plan and providing facilities and expertise to assist in the training of the Australian Apprentice in the agreed qualification (this may include on-the-job training, supervision from competent people, mentoring, or time to undertake off-the-job training); • ensuring that a record of training is maintained; and • ensuring that the relevant authorities are notified on the completion of the Training Contract, or advising them in instances where the Training Contract is in danger of not being completed. Provide supervision and support This involves: • providing the Australian Apprentice with a nominated workplace supervisor and could involve a coaching or mentoring arrangement, especially for Australian Apprentices with little experience of work; and • being mindful that Australian Apprentices under the age of 18 are minors, and that their parents or guardians have legal responsibility for them. Advise Australian Apprentices of their rights and responsibilities This involves: • ensuring that Australian Apprentices are encouraged to raise issues and problems both in the workplace and with the Registered Training Organisation; • advising them of entitlements, such as wages, conditions etc; • ensuring that the Australian Apprentice is aware that help and assistance are also available from the relevant State/Territory Training Authority; and • taking care of workplace property and resources; • respecting the rights of other Australian Apprentices and employees in the workplace; • remembering that information obtained from the employer must be kept confidential and not disclosed without approval from the employer; and • obtaining consent from a parent or guardian, if you are less than 18 years of age. Be aware of and make a commitment to fulfil training responsibilities This involves: • making all reasonable efforts to achieve the competencies specified in the training plan and undertaking any training and assessment required; • participating in the development of the training plan; • attending training sessions or supervised workplace activities and taking advantage of learning opportunities; and • maintaining a record of training such as a training record book. FOR FURTHER INFORMATION AND ASSISTANCE Australian Apprenticeship Support Network provider in each State and Territory can provide further information on Australian Apprenticeships. Their contact details can be obtained by calling 13 38 73 or by visiting australianapprenticeships.gov.au. Group Training Information about group training is available at grouptraining.ntis.gov.au, or www.australianapprenticeships.gov.au/group-training. www.australianapprenticeships.gov.au State and Territory Training Authority State and Territory Training Authorities are government departments responsible for the operation of the Vocational Education and Training (VET) system (including Australian Apprenticeships) within that jurisdiction. Contact details for State and Territory Training Authorities are listed below: Australian Capital Territory ACT Government Education and Training Directorate 220 Northbourne Avenue, Braddon ACT 2612 PO Box 158, Canberra ACT 2601 Ph: (02) 6205 8555 Fax: (02) 6205 8448 Web: http://www.det.act.gov.au/training New South Wales NSW Department of Education and Communities Locked Bag 53, Darlinghurst NSW 1300 Ph: 13 28 11 Ph: 02 9266 8704 Fax: 02 9266 8590 Web: www.training.nsw.gov.au Email: sts@det.nsw.edu.au Queensland Department of Education, Training and Employment LMB 527 GPO, Brisbane QLD 4001 Ph: 1800 210 210 Web: www.training.qld.gov.au Victoria For apprenticeship regulatory matters, including the regulation of Group Training Organisations: Victorian Registration and Qualifications Authority South Australia Skills for All GPO Box 320 Adelaide SA 5001| Ph: 1800 673 097 Fax: (08) 8463 5654 Web: www.skills.sa.gov.au/apprenticeships-traineeships Western Australia Department of Training and Workforce Development Apprenticeship Office Locked Bag 16, Osborne Park Delivery Centre WA 6916 Ph: 13 19 54 (local) Ph: (08) 6551 5499 Web: www.apprenticentre.wa.gov.au Northern Territory Department of Business Mitchell Centre, 11th Floor 55-59 Mitchell Street, Darwin NT 0801 GPO Box 3200, Darwin NT 0801 Ph: (08) 8935 7707 Fax: (08) 8901 1326 Web: http://www.dob.nt.gov.au/training/apprenticeshipstraineeships Tasmania Skills Tasmania GPO Box 169, Hobart TAS 7001 Ph: (03) 6233 4600 Ph: 1800 655 846 (freecall) Fax: (03) 6233 0588 Web: www.skills.tas.gov.au GPO Box 2317, Melbourne VIC 3001 Ph: 1300 722 603 Fax: (03) 9637 3564 Web: www.vrqa.vic.gov.au ED15-0136 For all other apprenticeship matter: Department of Education and Training GPO Box 4367, Melbourne VIC 3001 Ph: (03) 9637 2000 Web: www.education.vic.gov.au/training/learners/ apprentices 13 38 73 www.australianapprenticeships.gov.au Your Life. Your Career. Your Future. ATIS-026 1800 210 210 apprenticeshipsinfo@qld.gov.au www.apprenticeshipsinfo.qld.gov.au Apprenticeships Info School-based apprenticeships and traineeships (SAT) Information to get started School-based apprentices and trainees, typically in years 10, 11 and 12, are trained in the workplace and with a training organisation, in their chosen apprenticeship or traineeship while continuing to study towards their Queensland Certificate of Education (Senior Certificate or equivalent). To commence a SAT, a student must have the support of the employer, the school, supervising registered training organisation (referred to as training organisation), and their parent/guardian. The employer, student and parent/guardian (if applicable and appropriate) will be required to sign a training contract (with the assistance of an Australian Apprenticeship Support Network [AASN] provider) agreeing to work together for the length of the apprenticeship or traineeship. It is anticipated that, prior to lodging the training contract for registration, the AASN provider will ensure that the parties to the contract work together, and with the parent or guardian and the school, to negotiate a schedule of education, training and employment (ETES). There must be some impact on the student’s school timetable for the program to be considered school-based and this schedule will show that impact. The Independent and Catholic school sectors require that the parties record the schedule on the ATIS-023 Education, Training and Employment Schedule form. Paid employment requirements All school-based apprentices and trainees are paid for time spent working with their employer. However, the employer should contact the Fair Work Ombudsman to discuss the industrial relations provisions applicable to the employer and determine the following matters: • whether or not the apprentice or trainee will be paid for time spent undertaking training delivered by the training organisation • leave entitlements (e.g. sick leave, recreation leave etc.) or a loaded rate of pay compensating for no leave accruals. Periods of paid employment must never fall below the minimum of 375 hours (50 days) per 12 month period from the commencement of the school-based training contract. For training contracts in electrotechnology, a minimum of 600 hours (80 days) of paid employment must be provided every 12 months. School-based trainees must not complete in less than 12 months unless they have completed the minimum paid work requirement. The Department of Education and Training may randomly audit completing schoolbased traineeships and request evidence to confirm the minimum of paid employment was worked. Where scheduled work time is missed and an employer and the student are not able to make up the missed days within the 12 month period due to matters not within their control, they should seek further advice from the department. Government contributions to training costs Apprentices and trainees (including school-based) may only access a maximum of two government contributions (under the User Choice program). To find out more about government contributions, visit the User Choice section on the Training Queensland website. The government contribution to a school-based apprentice or trainee’s training is aligned to the priority level of the qualification being undertaken: • • • priority 1 qualifications are 100% subsidised priority 2 qualifications are 75% subsidised priority 3 qualifications are 50% subsidised. More information on these subsidies can be found on the Training Queensland website. Students (and their parent/guardian) must be provided with adequate information from the training organisation to allow an informed decision about which qualification they will undertake as the decision may affect their access to further funding. Under the User Choice program, school-based apprentices and trainees are exempt from paying student contribution fees to the training organisation whilst they are at school. Leaving school If a SAT is not completed prior to the student leaving school, it must be converted to full-time or part-time arrangements. The department will convert school-based apprentices and trainees to full-time arrangements the day after their Year 12 school year ends. However, for schoolbased apprentices and trainees who leave school before the end of Year 12, the employer, apprentice or trainee and parent or guardian must submit the ATF035 Amendment of a registered training contract form to convert the training contract to full-time or part-time. Once converted, appropriate award wages and conditions apply—contact the Fair Work Ombudsman for assistance. Once a student’s training contract has been converted from school-based, they are eligible to pay the student contribution fees and charges to the training organisation. The student should contact the training organisation to discuss these fees. Limit to off-the-job training which may be provided There is a limit to the amount of off-the-job training that school-based apprentices may complete whilst at school, dependent on the nominal term (full-time) of the apprenticeship: • four year nominal term – a maximum of 33.3% of the competencies • three year nominal term – a maximum of 40% of the competencies • two year nominal term – a maximum of 50% of the competencies In exceptional circumstances, and only with the prior approval of the department, it may be possible to exceed the above off-the-job training limits. Applications should be directed to the department. Please note the off-the-job training limit does not apply to traineeships. Electrotechnology apprenticeships Entry into electrotechnology apprenticeships is limited to students in Years 11 and 12. There are a number of criteria required of students wishing to pursue a school-based apprenticeship in the electrotechnology field. These requirements are listed against the chosen qualification on the Queensland Training information Service (QTIS) website at www.qtis.training.qld.gov.au. Business cases for students outside Years 10, 11 and 12 Students enrolled and attending school in a year other than 10, 11 or 12 will be considered to undertake a SAT, provided a business case has been approved prior to commencing. Note: Where a training contract commences after the end of the Year 9 school year and the student is enrolled to return to school to start Year 10 the next year, a business case is not required. For details on the requirements of a business case, contact Apprenticeships Info. School to Trade Pathway incentive This program provides employers with up to $5000 to commence a school-based apprentice and retain them in a full-time apprenticeship after they have completed their schooling. For more information, see the School to Trade Pathway incentive fact sheet on the Training Queensland website. For further information Contact: • the school’s career counsellor • an AASN provider on 13 38 73 • Apprenticeships Info on 1800 210 210 • Fair Work Ombudsman on 13 13 94 or visit www.fairwork.gov.au, regarding wages, entitlements and industrial awards. Related document: • Guide to school-based apprenticeships and traineeships. Version 14.1 – July 2015 ATIS-026 School-based apprenticeships and traineeships (SAT) ATIS-020 1800 210 210 apprenticeshipsinfo@qld.gov.au www.apprenticeshipsinfo.qld.gov.au Apprenticeships Info Parent or guardian responsibilities Information to get started The parent or guardian of an apprentice or trainee, who is under 18 years of age, is not a party to the training contract, but does have responsibilities in regard to the apprenticeship or traineeship. However, in some cases, the parent or guardian’s involvement may be inappropriate – for example, if the apprentice or trainee is living independently. Responsibilities of the parent or guardian The parent or guardian’s responsibilities are: • • • • • to sign the training contract within 14 days after the day the apprenticeship or traineeship starts to sign the appropriate application, if the employer and apprentice or trainee agree— o to apply to amend the training contract o to temporarily transfer the training contract to a new employer for a period not exceeding 1 year, to suspend the training contract for a period not exceeding one year o to apply to cancel the training contract if the employer and apprentice or trainee and a proposed new employer agree to permanently transfer the training contract to the new employer, sign the application if the apprentice or trainee decides to withdraw their consent to suspend or cancel the training contract within seven days, sign the written notice advising their Australian Apprenticeship Support Network (AASN) provider or the Department of Education and Training of the withdrawal if the employer, apprentice or trainee and training organisation agree to sign a completion agreement to initiate completion of the apprenticeship or traineeship, sign the completion agreement. Further responsibilities that relate specifically to schoolbased apprenticeships and traineeships: • • • ensure the school’s agreement to the school-based arrangement has been obtained participate in the negotiation of, and agree, to a schedule of school studies, training and employment if the student is suspended or expelled from school, or the school withdraws their support to the schoolbased arrangement, contract the AASN provider or • • the department immediately to discuss continuation of the apprenticeship or traineeship if the student changes schools, the support of the new school must be gained before the school-based arrangement can continue if the school-based apprenticeship or traineeship is in the electrotechnology industry, ensure the required criteria has been met, as outlined on www.qtis.training.qld.gov.au. The parent or guardian will be provided with copies of correspondence related to various processes which occur during the life of the training contract. This correspondence is provided to keep the parent or guardian informed, so they may assist the apprentice or trainee to navigate through the processes and help to ensure successful completion of the apprenticeship or traineeship. It is important to note that the AASN provider and the department may only provide the parent or guardian listed on the training contract, with any information contained in the training contract, unless the apprentice or trainee has formally, in writing, advised their AASN provider or the department otherwise. Any other parties would need to be added as a third party in order to gain information pertaining to the apprenticeship or traineeship. The ATF-008 Authority to release information to a third party form is used for this purpose. Parent or guardian is also the employer An employer, who is also the parent or legal guardian of the apprentice or trainee, may sign the training contract as both the employer and parent or guardian. Timeframe The parent or guardian’s involvement in processes related to the training contract cease when the apprentice or trainee turns 18 years of age. To continue to access information contained in the training contract, the apprentice or trainee would need to add the parent or guardian as a third party to the training contract. For further information Phone Apprenticeships Info on 1800 210 210. All forms can be found on the Apprenticeships Info website in the Information sheets, forms & resources section. Version 6.1 – July 2015 Department of Education, Training and Employment myApprenticeship Self-service website Photography: Tony Phillips www.training.qld.gov.au/myapprenticeship The myApprenticeship website is the easiest way to manage your apprenticeship or traineeship with the Department of Education, Training and Employment. myApprenticeship allows you to securely view information and complete a range of tasks relating to your apprenticeship or traineeship. myApprenticeship is an initiative supporting the Queensland Government’s Great skills. Real opportunities training reform action plan. You can: • access your training contract details Other useful information is available at: • update your personal information www.training.qld.gov.au/skillsgateway www.training.qld.gov.au • initiate formal processes • view official correspondence between you and the department • view your training results • monitor the progress of your apprenticeship or traineeship • lodge a general enquiry or request with the department For assistance with accessing and using the myApprenticeship self-service website, contact the department: • access previous requests you may have made through the website EmailmyApprenticeship@dete.qld.gov.au Phone 1800 210 210 140107 • apply for travel and accommodation subsidies. Accessing and using the myApprenticeship website is easy. Just follow these steps to get started: Step 1 Visit www.training.qld.gov.au/myapprenticeship and log in using your allocated username and password. If you have not yet received your username and password or you have misplaced this information, please contact the department on 1800 210 210. Step 2 Once you have logged in for the first time, you will be prompted to change your password and confirm an email address. The email address you provide will be used for resetting your password. Step 3 Once you have logged in you will see your landing page. Here you can complete a range of tasks using the action bar on the left hand side. Step 4 Use the My Details tab to view and amend your contact details. Step 5 You can also view detailed information about your training arrangement by clicking on the My Training tab. Australian Apprentices A guide to payments If you are an Australian Apprentice you may be eligible for Youth Allowance, Austudy or ABSTUDY. Support for Apprentices How do I apply? If you are currently completing an Australian apprenticeship or traineeship, you may be eligible for financial assistance to help you while you achieve your qualification. The following payments may be available to you: Youth Allowance and Austudy apprentices can apply online at humanservices.gov.au/online by following the online services links. • Youth Allowance • Austudy • ABSTUDY. Who can apply? You can apply for one of these fortnightly payments if you: • are a full-time Australian Apprentice, and • meet our residency requirements. As Australian Apprentices can only claim one of the payments, you should use the following guide to work out which payment reflects your situation. ABSTUDY apprentices can apply over the phone on the ABSTUDY line FreecallTM 1800 132 317. Make sure you have the following information nearby to ensure the application process takes as little time as possible: • your gross fortnightly earnings • your bank account number • your bank branch number. When you make a claim you will need to prove your identity to us. Please provide original documents (not photocopies) from the approved list— see the Proving your identity form at humanservices.gov.au/forms. • If you’re an Australian Apprentice aged between 16 and 24, you should apply for Youth Allowance. • If you’re an Australian Apprentice aged 25 and over, you should apply for Austudy. • If you’re an Australian Apprentice of any age and you are an Indigenous Australian, you should apply for ABSTUDY. humanservices.gov.au Australian Apprentices. A guide to payments 2 of 2 How much will I get? Are payments taxable? The amount of assistance that you may receive depends on a number of things, which include: If you are 16 and over and receive Youth Allowance, Austudy or ABSTUDY, your payment will be treated as taxable income. However, to work out exactly how individual payments could affect your tax, you should speak to the Australian Taxation Office. Alternatively, you can talk to your accountant or registered tax agent. You can earn up to $400 per fortnight before your income affects your payment. The maximum amount you can accumulate in your income bank balance as an Australian Apprentice is $1,000. Because each person’s circumstances are unique, call the Australian Apprentices line on 133 633 for more information. Youth Disability Supplement You may qualify for an additional Youth Disability Supplement if you are under 22 years of age and assessed as having a partial capacity to work. Do I need to report my income? You will need to report your income to us each fortnight. You must do this in order to receive the correct payment. We will send you a letter telling you when you need to report. You will need to contact us before 5.00 pm on the day you are due to report or your payment may be delayed. You can report your income: • online—go to humanservices.gov.au/online and follow the online services links, or • over the phone—call the Report Employment Income line on 133 276. The entire process takes less than five minutes and because the line is fully automated, there’s no waiting in any phone queues. For more information Go to humanservices.gov.au Call Australian Apprentices 133 633 Youth Allowance and Austudy 132 490 ABSTUDY line FreecallTM 1800 132 317 Follow us on Facebook at facebook.com/studentupdate or Twitter @StudentUpdateAU to keep informed. Can visit a Department of Human Services Service Centre. For more information about Australian Apprenticeships Australian Apprenticeships combine practical work with structured training to provide a nationally recognised qualification that leads to skilled employment. Australian Apprenticeships are also commonly known as apprenticeships and traineeships. Go to australianapprenticeships.gov.au Disclaimer The information contained in this publication is intended only as a guide to payments and services. It is your responsibility to decide if you wish to apply for a payment and to make an application, with regard to your particular circumstances. This information is accurate as at November 2012. If you use this publication after that date,please check with us that the details are current. Note: calls from your home phone to ‘13’ numbers from anywhere in Australia are charged at a fixed rate. That rate may vary from the price of a local call and may also vary between telephone service providers. Calls to ‘1800’ numbers from your home phone are free. Calls from public and mobile phones may be timed and charged at a higher rate. ST020.1211 • your personal income and assets, and • your parents’ or partner’s income and assets (where applicable). humanservices.gov.au WHO TO CONTACT APPRENTICE & TRAINEE INFORMATION Queensland TOPIC CONTACT If I need detailed information about an Australian Apprenticeship. 1300 ACE 4 MRAEL If I want more information on Australian School-based Apprenticeships. MRAEL ACE Apprenticeships Centre, Careers Teacher or VET Coordinator If I would like to be employed by a Group Training Company (that employs apprentices and trainees then hires them out to employers on short or long term assignments). 1300 ACE 4 MRAEL MRAEL ACE Apprenticeships Centre If I have any queries before starting or during my Australian Apprenticeship. 1300 ACE 4 MRAEL MRAEL ACE Apprenticeships Centre If I need information on, or have any queries about wages and terms and conditions of employment. 13 13 94 Fair Work Commission www.fairwork.gov.au To apply for a Living Away From Home Allowance if I have moved in order to start my Australian Apprenticeship. 1300 ACE 4 MRAEL MRAEL ACE Apprenticeships Centre If I believe I am not being treated fairly or if my work is rationed. 1800 210 210 Department of Education and Training (Apprenticeships Info) www.apprenticeshipsinfo.qld.gov.au 13 13 94 Fair Work Commission www.fairwork.gov.au 1800 210 210 Department of Education and Training (Apprenticeships Info) www.apprenticeshipsinfo.qld.gov.au 1300 369 915 Fair and Safe Work Queensland If my Australian Apprenticeship has been suspended or terminated. 1300 ACE 4 MRAEL MRAEL ACE Apprenticeships Centre When I have completed my Australian Apprenticeship where do I obtain my Trade Certificate of Completion? 1800 210 210 Department of Education and Training (Apprenticeships Info) www.apprenticeshipsinfo.qld.gov.au If I believe I am being harassed or discriminated against at work or in training. MRAEL ACE Apprenticeships Centre Need further assistance? Contact your local ACE Field Officer on: 1300 ACE 4 MRAEL (1300 223 467), ace@mrael.com.au or visit www.mrael.com.au 15-07-15