Who Can Hire An Apprentice?

Thinking of Hiring an Apprentice? Here's What You Need to Know

Hiring an apprentice is one of the most rewarding ways to grow your business while investing in the future of the electrical industry. But if you’re unsure whether you’re eligible, what is required, or how to begin, this guide will help you make the best decision for your business. 

Who Can Hire an Apprentice in Australia?

Any business, sole trader, or organisation that can provide relevant and supervised on-the-job training may be eligible to hire an apprentice. This includes:

• Small businesses and large companies
• Sole traders and partnerships
• Government agencies and not-for-profits

In the electrical industry, to host an apprentice electrician, you must hold the appropriate electrical contractor licence and be able to provide consistent, meaningful work aligned with the apprenticeship training requirements.

What Do You Need to Hire an Apprentice?

To be eligible, you generally need:

• A valid ABN (Australian Business Number)
• Appropriate industry licenses (e.g. electrical contractor’s licence)
• A safe and supportive workplace that complies with WHS standards
• Qualified tradespeople available to supervise and mentor the apprentice
• Capacity to provide relevant work aligned with the apprenticeship’s training plan

If you’re unsure about any of these requirements, Group Training Organisations like EGT can help manage the paperwork, compliance, and recruitment process.

When is it Worth Hiring an Apprentice?

Hiring an apprentice can be a smart move when:

• Your business is growing and you need more than just short-term subcontractors. 
• You’re ready to invest in developing talent.
• You have experienced tradespeople who can pass on their knowledge.
• You’re experiencing a skills shortage or rising wage costs.

Hiring an apprentice is not just about reducing overheads, it’s about shaping your workforce, creating loyalty, and building a sustainable future for your business and industry.

Who Should Not Hire an Apprentice?

While hiring apprentices offers many benefits, they’re not for every business. You may want to hold off if:

• You can't guarantee consistent, relevant work
• You lack qualified supervision or licensing
• You’re not ready to commit to mentoring and training responsibilities

An apprenticeship can be a long-term investment, both for the employer and the apprentice. It's important to set both parties up for success.

How Do You Get Started?

There are two main pathways to hiring an apprentice:

1. Direct Employment

You can directly employ an apprentice and work with a Registered Training Organisation (RTO), such as CET, to manage the training.

2. Group Training Organisation (GTO)

Alternatively, you can host an apprentice through a GTO like EGT. In this model:

• EGT becomes the legal employer
• You provide on-the-job experience as the host employer
• EGT handles recruitment, payroll, insurance, training coordination, and performance monitoring

This is an ideal option for businesses that want to support apprentices but don't want the administrative burden or long-term employment risks.

Common Questions from Employers

Q: Do I have to hire an apprentice full-time?
A: Apprenticeships are typically full-time, but part-time arrangements can be approved under certain conditions.

Q: What if the apprentice isn’t the right fit?
A: If you’re hosting through a GTO like EGT, we manage any performance issues, discipline, or transitions between host employers.

Q: How long does an electrical apprenticeship take?
A: An electrical apprenticeship typically takes four years and combines paid on-the-job training with classroom learning at an RTO.

Q: Can I choose who I take on?
A: Yes. Whether hiring directly or hosting through EGT, you can be involved in selecting the apprentice who fits your business.

Partner With EGT to Build the Future of the Industry

EGT is the largest employer of electrical apprentices in Western Australia. We make hiring and hosting apprentices simple by managing everything from recruitment to training support and performance reviews.

Whether you're a small contractor or a large company, we’ll help you find the right apprentice and guide you through the process with minimal risk and maximum support.