Do I need an RTO during my apprenticeship?
An apprenticeship program is typically completed over a 4 year period. During years 1, 2 and 3, you will be required to complete structured training by a Registered Training Organisation (RTO) such as a private company who assigns an assessor to you and or attending TAFE. Competency-Based Completion can be attained through discussion with your host employer, RTO and your Field Officer.
What is the Australian Apprenticeship Support Network?
The Australian Apprenticeship Support Network (Apprenticeship Network) is your first point of contact for all queries about apprenticeships.
The Australian Government contracts seven Apprenticeship Network providers to deliver support services nationally through more than 480 field officers and 137 physical locations (shopfronts).
You cannot start an Australian Apprenticeship without an Apprenticeship Network provider.
Apprenticeship Network providers give personalised advice and support services from pre-commencement to completion. Apprenticeship Network providers offer the following support services:
Universal services:
essential administrative support
payment processing
regular contact
Targeted services for individuals who need extra support to complete their apprenticeship.
Sometimes an apprenticeship is not the right fit for a person. Apprenticeship Network providers also help people find alternative training pathways if they are not suited to an apprenticeship.
Find an Apprenticeship Network provider at https://www.australianapprenticeships.gov.au/search-aasn
What is Group Training?
Some organisations hire apprentices and trainees and place them with host employers. These organisations are called Group Training Organisations (GTOs). They operate across Australia with some specialising in particular industries, while others cover many.
GTOs complete employer duties, which include:
selecting and recruiting apprentices and trainees
paying wages, allowances, superannuation, workers compensation, sick/holiday pay and other employment benefits
managing the quality and continuity of training, both on and off the job
providing any care and support the apprentices needs to complete their training.
The goals of GTOs include:
create more employment opportunities for apprentices and trainees
provide for continuity of employment and training through to completion
improve the quality and range of training available to apprentices and trainees.
To achieve these goals, GTOs:
employ apprentices and place them with host employers
are responsible for meeting the employer obligations outlined in the Training Contract
manage and track arrangements with host employers
provide any necessary care and support throughout the apprenticeship.
Many GTOs also:
move apprentices and trainees between host employers to
enhance their training experience, and
ensure they receive the full set of experiences needed to meet their required competencies
provide access to apprenticeships for those who may be hindered in the labour market;
provide services to the community
promote of vocational education and training
encourage employment growth.
Is Group Training for my business?
Group Training can be particularly helpful to small and medium sized businesses that:
find committing to an apprenticeship difficult
lack the resources to manage an apprentice
are unable to provide the full on the job training required for an apprenticeship.
