Thinking about taking on an apprentice for your trade business but feeling a bit overwhelmed by the process? You’re not alone! Waz & Nic chatted with Jeff Cooke from Apprenticeship Support, who broke down everything you need to know about hiring apprentices. In this episode, we’re tackling common myths and making the apprenticeship process a lot less complicated.
One of the biggest concerns for trade business owners is whether apprentices will end up costing more time and resources than they’re worth. Jeff clears this up, explaining that while the first 12 months can be a bit of a learning curve, the long-term rewards definitely make it worth the effort. Apprentices can eventually become key players in your business, shaped to fit exactly what you need.
Another topic that often comes up is wages and the legal side of things. Jeff goes into the details of financial incentives, clears up some common misconceptions, and explains how changes to government subsidies could impact your decision. The good news is there’s still plenty of support available, and knowing where to look can make a huge difference.
Jeff shares tips on how to find apprentices through social media, schools, and other sources. Plus, he walks through the steps to get all the paperwork done. He also covers alternatives like group training organizations for those who want to skip the administrative headache.
So, if you’ve been on the fence about hiring an apprentice, this episode is packed with everything you need to know. Jeff’s insights can help you take the next step and unlock the potential that apprenticeships can bring to your trade business. Take a listen and get ready to build a more skilled and resilient team!
You can connect with Apprenticeship Support Australia through their website or through their Instagram to learn more and get support.


