Employment conditions

As an employer you must provide your apprentice or trainee with:

• every opportunity to learn the skills and acquire the knowledge of the trade or traineeship 
• access to structured on and/or off-the-job training 
• time off work to attend training when necessary 
• a safe working environment 
• a work environment free from any form of harassment 
• other benefits specified in the training agreement or industrial arrangement (e.g. a tool allowance)
• a clear understanding of your work expectations and of their responsibilities in undertaking the training. 

Employee entitlements

The conditions of employment for apprentices and trainees are the same as for other employees working in similar occupations as set out in the relevant legislation, industrial award or workplace agreement.

The apprentice or trainee is therefore eligible to receive the same entitlements as employees which include:

• leave (sick leave, annual leave, parental leave, bereavement leave)
• allowances (tool allowance, uniform or laundry allowance, travel allowance)
• employer superannuation contributions
• worker’s compensation
• fair treatment by employer and other staff
• being covered by State legislation such as the Occupational Health and Safety Act 2000 which deals with safety in the workplace or the Anti-Discrimination Act 1997 which prohibits discrimination and harassment in the workplace.

Wages and awards

Trainees and apprentices must be employed under an Award or other appropriate industrial relations arrangements. Apprenticeship wages will vary according to industry and year of training.

You are obliged to make the wages and conditions of employment clear to your apprentice or trainee.

For more information, contact Workplace Standards Tasmania on 03 6233 7657 (outside Tasmania) or 1300 366 322 (inside Tasmania) or call the Workplace Authority Infoline on 1300 363 264