As part of the recently released 2017-18 Federal Budget, the following initiatives were announced to help meet the needs of industry, create jobs for the future, and increase support for apprentices and trainees.
What it means for you
From March 2018, businesses will be required to pay a levy for every temporary foreign worker employed. Along with Government contributions, this levy will support a range of projects designed to promote growth in apprenticeships, traineeships and to support pre-apprenticeship training in target areas.
| Annual business turnover | Levy per worker on Temporary Skill Shortage visa | Levy per worker sponsored on a permanent visa* |
| Less than $10 million | $1,200 annually | $3,000 one-off payment |
| Greater than $10 million | $1,800 annually | $5,000 one‑off payment |
*Per worker on a permanent Employer Nomination Scheme (subclass 186) visa or a permanent Regional Sponsored Migration Scheme (subclass 187) visa.
Find out more here.
Industry Specialist Mentoring for Australian Apprentices
What is it?
The $60 million Industry Specialist Mentoring for Australian Apprentices program will provide intensive mentoring, particularly during the first two years of training, to improve completion rates for up to 45,000 Australian apprentices and trainees.
What it means for you
Specialist assistance will be provided to apprentices and trainees who are at risk of not completing their training. Delivered by highly skilled industry mentors, this support will help to increase skills for industries undergoing structural changes.
Find out more here.
