1st Year Apprentice Wages: Pay Rates for 2024-2025

Undertaking an Australian Apprenticeship offers a unique blend of hands-on experience and skill development, and a formal trade qualification.

Many prospective apprentice tradies are unsure about starting training, concerned about the financial viability of this pathway.

If you're considering signing up as a first-year apprentice, understanding your expected earnings is crucial.

This guide, updated as at 1 July 2024, provides the latest information on apprentice wages for the Financial Year 2025 based on Modern Awards set by the Australian Government’s Fair Work Ombudsman.

Get Paid to Train

It’s a common saying, but apprenticeships really are a way to “earn while you learn”. Unlike University where you may find yourself accumulating a HECS-HELP debt, apprentices and trainees are paid during their on-the-job training and completion of a nationally accredited qualification.

Yes, as first year apprentice you will be earning less than qualified tradespeople, but you are gaining the skills and experience to see you through a rewarding (often lucrative!) trade career.

Apprentice Wages: What You Need to Know

First year apprentices are very often paid under Modern Awards for their industry and trade types. These rates (like the National Minimum Wage) are set by the Australian Government and reviewed each financial year.

In addition to any increases to wages via Modern Awards, apprentice pay rates typically increase as you progress through your training – which is usually 3-4 years for a trade apprenticeship.

So, in looking at the first year apprentice wages in this article, be aware that:

1. The figures provided represent minimum wage earned for full-time first year apprentices based on Modern Awards.
2. Some employers choose to pay above Award rates or under enterprise bargaining agreements, so your weekly rates would be higher.
3. Actual pay rates under the Awards vary based on a number of factors including the age you begin your apprenticeship, if you completed high school, and the trade type and industry.
4. You may be eligible for overtime and penalty rates (based on your role and employer) and other relevant allowances.
5. If you are completing a Priority Australian Apprenticeship, you may be eligible for government incentives to supplement your income. Read more about Financial Assistance for Apprentices.
6. Some organisations provide additional financial rewards, such as apprentice awards or scholarship programs (like MIGAS’s MiScholarship Program).

It’s important to remember that as this article outlines the minimum wages you can expect as a first year apprentice, individual circumstances may lead to higher earnings.

Please note: While our payroll experts have verified this information, it should be considered general advice. 

For the most accurate and comprehensive wage calculations, including base pay, allowances, and penalty rates, you should always use the Fair Work Ombudsman’s Pay and Conditions Tool. 

Full-Time First Year Apprentices Wages Under Modern Awards

For the period 1 July 2024 to 30 June 2025

Age classifications based on when you commence your apprenticeship:

• Under 17 years: Junior Apprentice who did not complete Year 12
• 17 to 20 years: Junior Apprentice who completed Year 12
• Over 21 years: Adult apprentice

Choose a Trade Apprenticeship:

An apprenticeship is an investment in your future. While initial wages may be modest, the long-term career prospects and earning potential in the trades sector continue to be robust and rewarding.

Employment prospects for tradies remain exceptionally strong in Australia. Typically upwards of  95% of apprentices secure employment immediately upon completing their training, with many finding jobs with the same employer or host company where they completed their training.

MIGAS Apprentices & Trainees specialises in the recruitment and placement of apprentices in Engineering, Electrical, Automotive and Construction trades.

Learn more on our apprenticeship overviews and search our Jobs Board for roles available now.