Funding for training is available from Australian, State and Territory Governments, professional associations and industry Organisations and some private training sector providers and colleges: NB: These initiatives are subject to change and it is recommended to check with the relevant Government Agency or Organisation.

1. Apprenticeships and Traineeships: The Australian Government provides incentives to employers of apprentices and trainees. Funding amounts start from $1,375 with extra financial assistance available for employers who train staff from various special interest groups such as persons with disabilities.

• State and territory governments also administer other funding schemes designed to assist employers and their trainees or apprentices by way of various allowances, services and exemptions.
• Contact your local Australian Apprenticeships Centre to find out what funding you are eligible to receive.

2. Targeted programs: Australian, State and Territory Governments offer programs to address specific regional or industry needs; e.g. to support growth in areas where there is a skill shortage. Some States and Territories also provide funding to develop skills in small business; e.g. the Tasmanian Government provides funding to small businesses which create jobs for Australian Apprentices in existing and new industries where there is a need for a highly skilled workforce.

• For details of industry funding initiatives that apply to your business, contact the training authority in your state or territory or check the Links for Other Resources section.

3. Special Needs: Funding for training is available through programs targeted at disadvantaged groups or people with special needs. Some examples are:

• Wage Assist, an Australian Government initiative, provides a subsidy of up to $4,400 to Australian employers who give an ongoing job to an eligible Indigenous job seeker.
• The Australian Government's Workplace English Language and Literacy (WELL) program provides workers with English language, literacy and numeracy skills. Funding is also available for enterprise-based language and literacy training to allow workers to make a full contribution to their workplace and to access mainstream workplace training.
• Businesses that employ people with disabilities can receive funding and subsidies under the Australian Government's Supported Wage System (SWS). Under the SWS a payment of $1,000 to employers can be made to offset the cost of employing a worker with a disability. Funding of up to $5,000 is also available for essential workplace modifications or special equipment that will assist people with disabilities get jobs.
• Employers who hire unemployed mature-age job seekers can also be eligible for wage subsidies.

4. Other sources of funding: Training awards, scholarships, and other funding initiatives are sometimes offered by private training providers, colleges or professional Organisations and associations. This form of financial assistance is often highly competitive and targeted to specific candidates such as those already working in certain industries. Contact your preferred training provider for information on funding programs available to you.