Queensland Small Business Apprenticeship Pilot Program for Construction Apprentices

November 10, 2025

Small and family-owned construction companies across Queensland will soon benefit from a major new government initiative designed to tackle the industry’s ongoing skills shortage.

The State Government has unveiled a $19 million Small Business Apprenticeship Pilot Program, fulfilling a key election commitment to strengthen Queensland’s workforce and help smaller construction firms train and retain apprentices.

The announcement was made jointly by Minister for Finance, Trade, Employment and Training Ros Bates and Minister for Customer Services and Open Data and Minister for Small and Family Business Steve Minnikin.

Under the pilot, wage subsidies will be offered to 2,000 construction apprentices employed by small and family-owned businesses. The program is intended to reduce financial strain during off-site training periods and maintain a reliable pipeline of skilled workers for Queensland’s construction sector.

“This program is part of the fresh start we promised – to end the skills shortage and secure a better future for Queensland’s construction industry,” Ms Bates said.

Eligible businesses will receive:
• A 50% wage subsidy for first- and second-year apprentices
• A 25% wage subsidy for third- and fourth-year apprentices for up to eight weeks of annual training

Over four years, apprentices under 21 may access up to $10,060, while apprentices 21 and over could receive as much as $13,740 in total subsidy payments.

The program applies to apprentices starting from 1 July 2025. Businesses can apply after an apprentice completes probation, with subsidy payments available upon enrolment and attendance at training.

Mr Minnikin said the initiative reinforces the Government’s commitment to the small businesses that drive Queensland’s economy.

“Small and family businesses are the heart of our construction industry. This initiative helps them take on apprentices with confidence, knowing the government is helping shoulder the cost of training,” he said.

Local chambers are encouraging interested operators to get in touch.

If your business would like more information, contact your local Chamber of Commerce who can connect you with the relevant department for support and clarification.

This is excellent news for the Redlands and Bayside region and a positive outcome for everyone who has advocated for change. The Regional Jobs Committee and local stakeholders have long supported this direction, and it’s great to see the pilot moving forward.