1. Conditions of Employment - when you have found someone suitable to undertake the apprenticeship, inform them of their conditions of employment including whether they will be working under an award or an employment agreement, the wage, the leave, superannuation, WorkCover and other benefits and entitlements.

If you are unsure about the award arrangements ring your Association.

2. Complete the Training Agreement forms - which can be obtained from your New Apprenticeship Centre (NAC) on 1800 639 629 or visit their web site.

3. Signing the Agreement - both the employer and the apprentice must sign the agreement and return it to New Apprenticeship Centre.

Note:

- If apprentice is under 18 years of age, parent or guardian must also sign the Agreement and Training Plan.

- A copy is to be provided to the Apprentice within 14 days of commencing work.

4. Training - Choose the Registered Training Provider such as a TAFE college which offers a Plumbing Trade Course from a list provided by your NAC, that suits the company and the apprentice, and prepare a Training Plan in conjunction with your apprentice and the training Provider.

A Training Plan outlines the competencies or modules that should be achieved during the apprenticeship while training on and off the job.

Employer and apprentice may wish to choose the Model training program that has already been developed by the College of your choice or you may wish to discuss with the training provider, a customised program. (Your NAC will provide you with a list of Training Colleges).

5. Enrolment - Enrol the apprentice with a Training Provider within 3 months of the Apprentice commencing work.

Note: Employer must give apprentices an appropriate amount of time off to allow them to attend training classes (off the job training).

6. Incentives for employing an Apprentice - There are a number of Federal and State government incentives available for employers employing an apprentice: they cover commencement, progression and completion payments, as well as extra incentives for employing women and out of trade apprentices. Employers in some States may also be eligible for payroll tax and WorkCover concessions. Contact your NAC to apply for Commonwealth incentives on 1800 639 629.