An apprenticeship is one form of a contract of training provided for under the Training and Skills Development Act 2003.  It is an agreement between an employer and an apprentice and, in most cases when the apprentice is less than eighteen years of age, the parent or guardian of the apprentice.  The agreement or contract in writing is called the Contract of Training and contains obligations, which define the responsibilities of the parties involved.

The employer undertakes to provide the apprentice with employment and practical training in a declared vocation and to arrange instruction by the best means in their power.  The employer also undertakes to allow the trainee to receive such courses of instruction or other training as is determined by the Act.

The apprentice, and their guardian, where applicable, give an assurance that the apprentice will serve the employer diligently and faithfully and conduct themselves in a courteous, obedient and proper manner.  A guardian’s responsibility under the contract, if initially present ceases upon the apprentice attaining the age of eighteen years.

When employed by the MTA Group Training Scheme apprentices are provided with overalls, safety boots, safety glasses, gloves, tool kit and any other equipment required depending on vocation.
 
Apprentice Wages (Federal Vehicle Industry Repair, Services and Retail Award rate):

• First Year - $7.33 per hour
• Second Year -  $9.60 per hour
• Third Year - $13.10 per hour
• Fourth Year - $15.37 per hour

Apprentice wages are adjusted in accordance with increases of the Federal Vehicle Industry Repair, Services and Retail Award 2002.