Information for Employers
LANDSCAPE QUEENSLAND MEMBERS CAN ADVERTISE AT NO COST ON THE JOBS BOARD ANY POSITIONS VACANT FOR EXPERIENCED WORKERS OR IF YOU ARE SEEKING AN APPRENTICE OR TRAINEE
Click here to download Jobs Board Template - complete then email to admin@landscapequeensland.com.au
There are many factors which contribute to any business growing. If you are looking to expand your business operations then you will need to consider adding to your team. Advertising for personnel experienced in the industry is one way, as is word of mouth or social media however taking on a trainee or apprentice may not give you an instant increase in trade expertise, but will you give you the satisfaction of training someone the way YOU like to do tasks.
Where to find a suitable trainee or apprentice?
- word of mouth within your own business or social networks, sporting clubs etc.
- local high schools - let their careers advisor know you are hiring
- advertise on social media or online recruitment platforms
What's the difference between a trainee and apprentice?
Traineeships
Trainees study for a certificate qualification to work in a particular industry or occupation, for example horticulture, office work, or information technology. It will take approximately 1-2 years to complete a traineeship.
Apprenticeships
Apprentices study for a trade qualification, for example as a landscaper, parks & gardens, chef or hairdresser. It will take approximately 3-4 years to complete an apprenticeship.
A school based apprentice or trainee (SATs) allow high school students, generally in Years 10, 11 or 12, to work for an employer and train towards a recognised qualification, while completing their secondary schooling and studying for their Queensland Certificate of Education (QCE) and/or Australian Tertiary Admission Rank (ATAR).
More detailed information on traineeships and apprenticeships (including school based) can be found on the Department Small Business, Education & Training website.
Your business may like to consider using a Group Training Organisation (GTO) to help manage an apprentice. The GTO assumes the role of employer as far as the training contract is concerned and can also help you find a suitable candidate. GTOs work along the same lines as labour hire companies as they are the direct employer and charge host employers for the apprentice’s time.
Employer Responsibilities
Still not sure? Watch this short video which goes through 5 Steps to Employing an Apprentice or Trainee.
- Ensuring your business is operating safely with full WHS documentation and procedures in place (LQ can assist with this)
- Must be signed up to an Apprenticeship Agreement within 14 days of employment
- Contact an Australian Apprentice Support Network provider (AASN) who can also register your apprentice with a Registered Training Organisation (RTO)
- Adherence to the Training Contract which may include a probationary period
- Ensuring correct wages are paid
- Supporting and encouraging your apprentice throughout their training as well as providing exposure to a wide range of tasks
Useful Links
Government incentives to take on a new apprentice vary from time to time. Up to date information can be found on Department of Small Business, Education & Training website.
All apprentices will need to have an Australian Apprenticeship Support Network Provider (AASN) more details can be found on the Australian Apprenticeships website.
The Department of Small Business, Education & Training also have a guide on Taking Your Business Further with Apprentices & Trainees