Post Recruitment Information

Before you get started

So you are just starting a new job. Congratulations! The information on this page will help you understand what might happen when you start your new role.

It is very important that you familiarise yourself with all the terms and conditions in your training contract. If you haven't been signed up into the training contract yet, make sure you read it all the way through when you do get signed up. The Australian Apprenticeship Support Network provider who signs you up will be there to help you out throughout your apprenticeship. Keep a copy of your contract somewhere you can easily find it for future reference (taking a photo and keeping this on your phone is one option).

If you have been employed through a Group Training Organisation, they will also support you throughout your apprenticeship or traineeship.

You should have a cooling off period in your contract, which means that if this is not the right apprenticeship or traineeship for you, you can change your mind and withdraw from the contract.

Your apprenticeship or traineeship normally has a 3 month probation period which means that either you or the employer can cancel out of the training contract without repercussions. Be aware though that you will have an employment contract as well, so make sure you know what the probation period is, as this could override the training contract.

Tips for starting your new role

Attend and perform work professionally

Find out your start time and make sure you are on time every day. Show up to work dressed appropriately, if you need to wear a uniform make sure you have one and that it is clean and ironed. If you need to wear Personal Protection Equipment (PPE) do so.

Working professionally means that you need to find out what your duties and tasks are and how long you have to complete them. If you don’t understand, always ask.

Take care of the workplace and its resources

Keep your workspace clean and tidy. If you borrow tools always return them and if there are any issues with them not working properly always report to the appropriate person. If for example you use the last or next to last item you are working with, let your supervisor know.

Respect the rights of other employees

Treat the other employees the way you would like to be treated. If they are of a different gender, race or religion be mindful that you do not discuss anything that will make them feel uncomfortable.

If a co-worker needs assistance always help them if you can.

Be committed to attending and participating in training sessions

For you to be successful and to complete your apprenticeship or traineeship you must attend and participate in every training session, whether that is with your employer or with the training provider. Non-attendance or participation without a legitimate excuse could lead to breaches of your training contract.

Communicate regularly with supervisors, mentors or coaches

Keep everybody in the loop with what is going on in relation to your apprenticeship or traineeship. If you need advice or you are having difficulties with some of the workplace or theory training, talk to somebody about it and seek help. Let them know the good stuff as well!

Achieve the competencies stated in the training plan

The training plan is your guide to what competencies you have completed and what is left for you to study. Work with your training provider to determine what they need and when you are expected to submit assessment. If you find you can’t meet the deadlines talk to your training provider and supervisor to see if alternative arrangements can be made.

Support during your apprenticeship

There are service providers available to support apprentices and trainees in making the Australian Apprenticeship a success.

Apprenticeship Network providers support apprentices and trainees by providing mentoring options. A mentor can be that person that you can talk to about your apprenticeship. They will assist you to navigate through your work and training and if needed will refer you to the appropriate people for any personal issues.

If you are employed by a Group Training Organisation you will be allocated a field officer to support you through your apprenticeship. The field officer is someone that will visit you on a regular basis to check that your apprenticeship is going along nicely. You can also contact them in between visits if necessary.

The Registered Training Organisation (RTO) delivering your training can assist you with learning support and some RTO’s have counselling available.

A mentor, field officer or your trainer are available to assist you with any concerns you have, so it is very important for you to make yourself available, and give feedback, when they call or attend the workplace. Any discussion you have with a service provider will be held in the strictest of confidence, which means that you can see them on your own and talk openly and honestly about your concerns.

As a last resort, each state and territory government has field officers to help resolve difficulties with an Australian Apprenticeship. Contact them for support or advice especially if either party is considering cancelling the training contract.