Changing direction
It is always a good time to follow your dream or make a change in your life or job. If you’re looking for a job that’s more hands-on or pays better – then studying with vocational education and training can help get you started.
Modern Australian apprenticeships and traineeships are for people of all ages. Taking up an apprenticeship or traineeship when you are over 25 can offer many benefits.
VET qualifications can provide you with the opportunity to change career, re-enter the workforce or gain new skills or a promotion in your current industry. The main benefit of doing an apprenticeship or traineeship, compared to other study, is being able to earn a wage while you learn.
Facts about adult apprenticeships
As an adult apprentice you can negotiate an individual training program with your employer that could cut the length of time it takes to be qualified – depending on your previous work experience it might not take as long as you think.
- 63 percent of apprentices and trainees over 25 years of age complete their training in 2 years or less.
- More businesses in Australia are taking on mature age apprentices and trainees.
- 44 percent of all Tasmanian apprentices and trainees training in mid 2021 were over 25 years of age.
How to change direction
If you’re ready to try something new but don’t know what to do then you might start investigating a new industry or finding an interesting course to study. Let’s explore ideas.
To start an apprenticeship or traineeship you need an employer, a registered training organisation and an Australian Apprentice Support Network provider or you might use a Group Training Organisation. All these groups have a different role in helping you reach your goals and can point you in the direction of where to go next.
If you’re looking at what steps to take, visit our Getting started page.
Apprenticeships and traineeships
If you’re ready to try something new and are keen to know more about apprenticeships and traineeships then now is a great time to start. Let’s take a closer look.
Where to get help
- Skills Check Point
Apprentices, trainees and students who are 40 years and older can access subsidised training and careers advice at the Skills Check Point for older workers. - 26TEN
People of all ages can access literacy support with reading, writing and computers through 26TEN - Rapid response
If you have lost casual, full-time or part-time work in the last 12 months due to retrenchment, downsizing or business closure you can apply to access up to $3,000 towards subsidised training through the Rapid Response Skills Initiative. - Help in Tasmania’s north west.
Need some support to start an apprenticeship or traineeship? If you’re over 18 and in north west Tasmania in the industries of Agriculture, Aquaculture and Forestry, Transport and Logistics and Health and Social Assistance then you can apply for up to $2,000 to help with your education and work costs.
What to expect
Making change can be daunting at first but taking the step is worthwhile.
You can expect to be supported when you start a VET course and if you need help – whether its finance or help with study or work life – then you can ask your training provider or employer.
Skilling up with vocational education and training will open new doors.
See what others have done
