Hiring an Electrical Apprentice in WA: Direct vs Through a GTO

In Western Australia, the demand for skilled electricians continues to grow—but for many businesses, the idea of hiring an apprentice can feel daunting. Whether you're a sole trader looking to expand or a growing company taking on bigger projects, bringing on an apprentice can be a smart, strategic move.

The big question is: should you hire an apprentice directly, or go through a Group Training Organisation (GTO)?

Understanding Your Options

There are two main ways to take on an electrical apprentice in WA:

• Direct employment – where your business hires, trains, and manages the apprentice entirely.
• Partnering with a GTO – where the GTO employs the apprentice and places them with you as a host employer.

Both options can work well depending on your business size, capacity, and goals—but they come with very different levels of responsibility.

What's Involved in Hiring Directly?

If you employ an apprentice directly, your business is responsible for every aspect of their journey. From recruitment and onboarding to ensuring they meet their training milestones and safety obligations. You’ll also manage their pay, contracts, and performance, just like any other employee.

This option gives you full control over the apprentice's development. But it also requires time, admin, and a good understanding of your legal obligations as an employer. It works best for larger businesses with established HR systems or long-term plans to invest in training.

What is a Group Training Organisation (GTO)? 

A GTO is a not-for-profit organisation that employs apprentices and places them with host employers. As WA’s largest hirer of electrical apprentices, EGT is a GTO that is deeply embedded in the industry, making it easier for businesses to get involved in training the next generation.

When you become a host employer, the apprentice is officially employed by the GTO - not you. The GTO takes care of recruiting, payroll, training coordination, mentoring, and even WHS compliance. Your job is to provide a safe, supportive workplace and on-the-job learning.

Why Choose the GTO Model?

The GTO model offers a huge range of benefits, especially for smaller businesses or those new to hosting apprentices:

• Less admin: You don’t have to handle contracts, wages, or government paperwork.
• Support built in: The GTO provides mentoring and performance support to help your apprentice succeed.
• Flexibility: Need to pause or rotate apprentices during a quiet period? No problem.
• Reduced risk: If the apprentice isn’t the right fit, the GTO will work with you to find a better match.

Which Option is Right for You?

If you have the resources to manage everything yourself and want full control, direct hire could work. But for most businesses, partnering with a GTO is the easier, safer, and more flexible choice.

You get access to a pre-vetted apprentice, expert support, and the ability to focus on your projects while still investing in the future of the trade.

Ready to take the next step?

Hosting an apprentice through a GTO is one of the simplest ways to grow your team, give back to the industry, and help shape the future of WA’s electrical workforce.

Interested in becoming a host employer? Reach out to learn how easy it is to get started.