The Australian Government realises that it is not always easy to make ends meet when starting out in an Australian Apprenticeship. There are expenses such as living out of home, purchasing your tools of trade and saving to buy a car, all on a training wage.
Every Apprentice needs tools to get started, although the cost of a tool kit can be a big cost to an Apprentice starting out.
In recognition of this, the Australian Government introduced the Tools For Your Trade initiative to provide a tool kit worth up to $800 for use by eligible Australian Apprentices who have completed the first three months of their training in area of particular skills need. The Tools For Your Trade Initiative will help to alleviate the financial burden on Australian Apprentices.
Am I Eligible?
You may be eligible if:
- You have completed the first three months of your Australian Apprenticeship; and
- You are undertaking one of the eligible Australian Apprenticeships listed on the Tools For Your Trade website.
'Eligible trades' are those recognised by the Australian Government as experiencing a skills need. Over 55 eligible trade areas currently qualify for assistance under the Tools For Your Trade initiative.
How Do I Apply?
A Tools For Your Trade (TFYT) Employer Verification Form will be provided to your employer when you’ve completed your first three months. This form will determine whether you are eligible to receive a Tools For Your Trade tool kit. You will be asked to sign this form which will then be returned to TFYT.
You and your employer will be asked to sign this form which will then be returned to the Tools For Your Trade provider. Your employer will then be provided with a voucher that can be used to purchase the tool kit. You will also be asked to sign the back of this voucher. You and your employer will purchase the tool kit using the voucher and make it available for you to use. When you have completed a further six months of your Australian Apprenticeship, ownership of the tools will be transferred to you.
For more information visit www.toolsforyourtrade.com.au or phone 1800 557 875.