Bite-size lessons, life hacks and advice that’s pretty interesting.
As an apprentice or trainee signed up by Apprenticeship Support Australia, you have access to our phone Mentoring Hotline and our team of Field Mentors to assist you to overcome any challenges you may face throughout your training journey.
Call our Mentoring Hotline anytime between 8.30 am – 5.00 pm on 1300 863 831 and press #3 to talk to us about anything you need.
For those more complex issues, our team of field mentors are based across WA, so no matter where you are, we can book in a face-to-face meeting, chat to you over the phone, SMS or email to assist you. To book in a meeting with a Mentor, click here.
The support does not stop there.
We are introducing the Learn AT Lunch digital support program- where we provide you with exclusive access to webinars, tools, and resources to help you become the best apprentice or trainee. A regular Learn AT Lunch online newsletter will hit your inbox inviting you to online events and keeping you informed of any new information or tools that become available.
Let’s get started.
Module 01: Setting Up For Success
For Apprentices and Trainees starting their journey.
Starting a new job comes with a lot of change and a lot of things to keep track of. Do you know how to apply for Annual Leave, does your payslip show all of the required information, and do you know what to do if you are sick on a day you are meant to attend TAFE/RTO?
Our handy checklist asks you a bunch of questions about your employment and training arrangements, that you need to know the answer to.
If there is something on this checklist that you don’t know the answer to, the first place to ask is your supervisor at work. Of course, if you’d rather speak with someone unconnected to your workplace, you can contact Apprenticeships Support Australia’s Mentoring Team, and they will help you with any questions you have.
The Street Smarthandbook is a practical life guide to help prepare you for life after school.
The handbook covers important topics from sexual health and the effects of drug and alcohol abuse to legal rights and applying for a loan.
It offers information specific to the school leaver, providing invaluable assistance for those who are considering buying their first car or living away from home. The handbook is also a handy guide for teens that are pondering their future career choices and supplies them with advice on apprenticeships, university and TAFE. It provides teens with straightforward, factual information about issues that they will face.
The information contained in the Street Smarthandbook is written by a collection of topical experts.
A quick guide to starting a new job.
Check out this great resource produced in conjunction with CCIWA. This guide will give you the low down on important information to be successful at work AND at life.
The sections on tax and superannuation are especially interesting … Said no-one ever – but read this stuff anyway, because getting this right early on will make a huge difference in your life.
For apprentices/trainees who commenced/recommenced before 1 July 2022
For apprentices/trainees who commenced/recommenced after 1 July 2022
Top tips for succeding that you can apply today.
Find out some great advice from RTO’s Betterlink and MPA Skills about how to succeed in your off-the-job learning.
Who are Betterlink and MPA Skills?
Betterlink are a Registered Training Organisation, delivering nationally accredited and customized training in the specialist areas of leadership and management, human resources, career development, employment services and community services.
MPA Skills Plumbing & Painting Training and Apprentice Employment, is a Group Training Organisation and Registered Training Organisation.
At MPA Skills, we offer a range of training opportunities, from school based and full-time pre-apprenticeship programs, apprenticeship courses to advanced training courses.
We are also the largest employer of plumbing and painting apprentices in Western Australia, and our Labour Force organisation offers our highly skilled tradespersons employment opportunities.
Module 02: Focus on Finances
If you are completing an apprenticeship or traineeship in a Construction Industry trade, you may be eligible for the Apprentice Completion Grant!
The Apprentice Completion Grant is a one-off payment of $2,000 to construction apprentices and trainees who complete their qualifications between 1 July 2023 and 30 June 2024.
An additional $500 (maximum) reimbursement is also available to these students as repayment for the purchase of work-related tools and/or safety equipment between 1 July 2023 and 31st October 2024.
This pilot program commences on 1 July 2023 for a 12-month period.
Reminder – Electrical trades are considered Construction trades too!
The team at CTC have created a heap of short videos to help you understand the world of tax!
Don’t know if you can claim mileage? There’s a video for that. Am I allowed to claim for study expenses? There’s a video for that too!
Jump on their Youtube channel and check out their very handy bite-sized videos on tax information, and you’ll be ahead of the pack!
Tax time can be a bit daunting for anyone, whether it’s your first time or your 15th!
Tax rules change, your personal circumstances change, and we all get well-intentioned but ultimately unreliable advise from family and friends.
Some people will seek out an accountant to help them complete their tax return, while others are confident and experienced enough to do their own return. If you are still trying to figure things out, the team at Curtin Tax Clinic are here to help.
Curtin Tax Clinic provides a free tax consultation service and have offered their services to you as an apprentice/trainee with Apprenticeship Support Australia.
You will need to submit an online application form, and once your support has been confirmed, you can book a consultation with a CTC staff member and student volunteer.
Make sure you ask them for any tips on spending or receipts for next years tax return.
Alternatively, you can check out their handy tax essentials booklet for some great information to get you started.
The Australian Apprenticeship Support Loans (AASL) is available to assist apprentices to manage with everyday costs. It’s important to realise that the loan is not paid as a lump sum, but is issued as a monthly payment to top up income.
Eligibility for the AASL is limited to occupations on the Australian Apprenticeship Priority List.
Please visit our Financial Assistance page or more information about the AASL and other financial entitlements for WA apprentices and trainees.
If you are struggling to pay your bills each week, please reach out and speak with one of our mentors to see how they can help.
Did you know that as an Apprentice, you can access some great discounts to build your tool kit? Check out some of these retailers to see how much you can save today:
1. Bunnings: PowerPass Apprentice has been designed just for apprentices. It gives access to all the great benefits that Bunnings Trade PowerPass customers receive, but without having to wait until you’ve completed your apprenticeship. Find out more and join here for free.
2. Jimy Tools: Apprentice “AAA” Program – “Aussie Apprentice Appreciation” or “AAA” program for short, gives apprentices the chance to purchase High Quality, Career Spanning Jimy Tool Kits and receive additional rewards when you purchase a Jimy Tools tool kit. Find out more and apply for their Apprentice ‘AAA’ Program here.
3. Sidchrome: Redemption deals available in the Apprentice Zone. This is a limited offer and is valid for products purchased from 04/10/2022 – 31/05/2023, and can be redeemed online until 14/06/2023. Complete your redemption form here.
Wow! Did you know there are (literally!) thousands of apprentices and trainees that haven’t claimed incentives they are eligible for? I don’t know about you, but I am always keen for a few extra dollars in my back pocket. To check if you have an outstanding incentive that you can claim, you need to follow a few simple steps:
- Connect your linked myGov account or Digital Identity (myGovID) to ADMS
- Confirm your identity in ADMS
- Claim your incentive using ADMS
If you are not sure how, here are some helpful instructions to get you going.
- Video on how to access ADMS for the first time
- Video on how to claim your AATSP
- Instructions on how to access the Australian Apprentice Training Support Payment
There are a couple of important things to keep in mind:
- You must claim within 12 months or the claim will expire – i.e., if you take too long, you forfeit the funds and you miss out.
- You can only claim the incentive after the effective date – i.e., you can’t claim it before you become eligible
- Not everyone is eligible for an incentive (sorry!). Eligibility is determined by the rules set by the government. If you are eligible, it will appear on your ADMS profile.
Superannuation is a crucial aspect of your financial future and security. It’s more than a deduction on your payslip; long-term planning is essential for helping you achieve your financial goals. The earlier you understand how superannuation works, the more control you will have over growing your wealth, making informed financial decisions, and maximising the potential of your hard-earned money.
Module 03: Health and Well-being
Do you ever feel like something’s not quite right but you can’t figure out what it is or what to do? The Wellness Wheel is a great, simple tool to look at a couple of areas of life and reflect on which areas may need a little attention.
We like to think of it like the spokes on a bike wheel. If one of the spokes is not as strong as the others, the wheel can start to wobble, and the other spokes start to weaken.
By using the Wellness Wheel Tool, it can help you keep your spokes strong by looking at the areas of life that may be causing you unbalance and provide you with helpful ways to get you back on track.
And don’t forget, you can always reach out to the Mentoring team if you need some extra help with any of your spokes!
Louise is a Qualified Heavy Vehicle and Plant Mechanic, and has put together some great words of wisdom on how to protect your body for the long term.
Working in a physical trade can mean you are faced with many different risks compared to working in an office, so you need to take extra care of your body.
Why not check out Louise’s 5 minute video on YouTube and hear her guidance on lifting, food, skin and sleep.
Did you know there is actual science behind happiness? Neither did we!
Well, the smart people at Yale have done a lot of research in this area, and have created a FREE short course designed to increase your own happiness and help you build more productive habits. Why not take a look?
Oh, and they’ve even created a tailored FREE 6 week course for teens! If you want to be happier, feel less stressed and discover how to thrive, you can find out how by using the link below.
Module 04: Building Your Professional Profile
Having a trade means you can work across many industries. The following activity helps you get to know your trade as well as explore the different opportunities and industries you can work within.
In today’s digital age, having an online presence has become increasingly beneficial and a great tool to help launch your career. Whether it is showcasing your skills and projects through reels on Instagram or Tik Tok, or building a professional network on LinkedIn, trades people all over the world are using social media as a tool and a platform to stand out.
Have you heard of LinkedIn?
LinkedIn is Instagram’s professional cousin. A platform to build connections with business, colleagues, show off your work and achievements and explore career opportunities.
As an apprentice or trainee, utilising LinkedIn effectively can significantly enhance your professional network. Here are some practical steps to make the most of this platform:
- Create a Strong Profile:
- Add Your Work Experience: Whether it’s a summer job, internship, or any relevant experience, showcase it on your profile. Highlight skills you’ve gained.
- Qualifications and Courses: Include any qualifications you have, even if they’re outside formal education.
- Achievements and Volunteering: Share achievements that make you stand out. Did you volunteer? Were you a team captain? Show your personality.
- Optimise Your Profile with Photos:
- Professional Profile Photo: Use a clear photo where you look professional. Avoid silly faces or holding a drink.
- Background Image: Add a background image that reflects your interests or aspirations.
- Skills and Endorsements:
- Add Relevant Skills: List skills related to your field. You can also ask for endorsements from connections.
- Grow Your Network: Connect with fellow apprentices/trainees and professionals in your industry.
- Follow Relevant Organisations: Stay updated by following companies and industry leaders.
- Start Posting: Share articles, insights, or thoughts related to your field.
Remember, LinkedIn isn’t just for established professionals; it’s a valuable tool for students and apprentices like you. Building a strong profile and actively engaging with the platform can open doors to exciting opportunities!
As you grow in your career joining industry associations can be a game-changer! These groups are like treasure troves packed with perks for newcomers. Think of them as your secret weapon for learning the ropes and making connections. Inside, you’ll find mentors ready to share their wisdom, workshops to boost your skills, and insider insights you won’t get anywhere else. Plus, rubbing shoulders with seasoned pros isn’t just inspiring; it can open doors to new opportunities you never knew existed. And here’s the kicker: being part of these associations shows you’re serious about your trade, which can impress future employers. So, dive in, get involved, and watch your career take off!
Find out industry specific associations that might be relevant to your interest:
Alternatively, we have the following recommendations:
HIA is Australia’s largest national association for the residential building industry, and can offer you access to a huge range of industry products and business services.
Join their “Built Different” online community which is designed to help apprentices to reach new levels in the building industry.
The MTAWA is a member-based organisation operated by industry members, for the benefit of industry members. They provide advocacy, lobbying, business development, training and apprenticeship services for thousands of businesses and employees within Western Australia and is dedicated to advocating for the automotive industry and its interests.
The AHC is the national voice connecting hairdressing and barber professionals, educators, and suppliers and exists to ensure a sustainable, positive future for the industry. As part of AHC, you can join the Hairdressing Australia Industry Register (H.A.I.R) while you are an apprentice to show that you are working in a compliant business and customers and employers can have confidence in your skills and qualifications?
Early Childhood Australia (ECA) is the largest industry body in the early childhood sector. They represent over 3700 members nationwide, from private, community-based and local government service providers, individual educators, schools, universities and other organisations that are passionate about the wellbeing of all Australian children.
You can join as a student and gain access to the latest practice, research and policy in the sector while also accessing exclusive benefits and discounts.
Module 05: Staying safe over the festive season
The festive season or the end of the year is always a time to look forward to. However, it’s also a time to stay sharp and safe. Here are a few key areas to keep in mind to ensure you enjoy the season without putting yourself or others at risk.
We all love a good celebration, but it’s important to know your limits. Whether it’s an end-of-year work gathering or a night out with mates, remember that alcohol can impair your judgment. Stick to the golden rule—pace yourself. Eat before you drink, stay hydrated, and avoid mixing drinks. Most importantly, never drink and drive. With ride-sharing apps and public transport, there are safer ways to get home. Think ahead, plan your ride, and stay safe.
Work functions during the festive season are a great way to unwind and connect with colleagues but remember—they’re still part of the professional environment. It’s easy to get caught up in the fun, but what you do at these events can stick with you long after the holidays. Keep in mind that while it’s a social setting, your actions can impact your reputation and career.
Avoid overdoing it with alcohol, as it can lower your inhibitions and lead to behaviours you might regret. Stick to your professional boundaries—what seems funny in the moment could come across as inappropriate or disrespectful. Be mindful of how you interact with your colleagues and management. Keep conversations light and professional and avoid getting involved in gossip or drama.
If you’re not sure how to act, think about how you’d want to be remembered when you’re back at work. It’s all about striking a balance—have fun, but don’t lose sight of the fact that it’s still a work event. Staying in control ensures you start the new year with your reputation—and job—intact.
If you’re feeling tired, your reaction times slow down, and mistakes are more likely. Make sure you’re getting enough rest and take breaks during the day to recharge. If you’re operating heavy machinery or driving, being fully alert is a must. Don’t push your limits—know when to rest and recover.
While the holiday spirit might make things feel more relaxed, safety at work should still be a top priority. Distractions and rushing to get things done before the break can lead to accidents. Keep an eye out for safety hazards and maintain the same standards you would any other time of the year. Double-check equipment, follow safety procedures, and speak up if something doesn’t feel right. A small mistake can have big consequences, so stay focused and look out for your mates.
The holidays can be a stressful time, especially if you’re juggling work, family and social commitments. Take care of your mental health by making time for yourself. Whether it’s going for a run, watching your favourite show, or simply having a quiet moment, it’s important to unwind and recharge. If things start to feel overwhelming, talk to someone—a friend, family member, or professional. It’s okay to reach out and take a breather during the busy season. Looking after your wellbeing helps you stay in control and enjoy the festivities.
It’s tempting to splurge on gifts, parties and travel, but going overboard can lead to a financial headache once the holidays are over. Set yourself a budget before the season kicks into high gear. Prioritise spending on things that matter most and avoid last-minute impulse buys. Remember, the fun doesn’t stop when you’re smart with your money; it just means you’ll feel less stressed once the season ends. A little planning can help you enjoy the celebrations without worrying about your bank balance.
