Apprenticeship Support: Funding Available for Gold Coast Businesses

Finding and training skilled workers is one of the biggest challenges facing trade businesses on the Gold Coast right now — but a range of government funding programs means there's never been a better time to bring on an apprentice.

Queensland small businesses in the trades sector have fresh reasons to consider taking on an apprentice, with a suite of government incentive programs currently available. The state's TradieStart program offers eligible small businesses a base incentive of $10,000 to recruit their first apprentice in an eligible construction trade, with additional support on top of that figure.

Trades in housing construction and clean energy are being prioritised, with combined incentives of up to $15,000 available — including $5,000 for the employer and $10,000 for the apprentice. TradieStart also covers construction, plumbing, engineering, and electrical trades.

Separately, the state government has committed to free apprenticeships for anyone under 21 as part of a $32 million investment backing small businesses and young job seekers, according to the state's Employment Minister.

Gold Coast businesses in eligible trades are encouraged to explore what support may be available to them. If you'd like to learn more about the TradieStart program and other apprenticeship incentives, visit the Queensland Skills Gateway or speak with your industry association. As always, MCC is here to help connect local businesses with the right information — get in touch with us if you'd like to be pointed in the right direction.