Apprenticeship Boost

Apprenticeship Boost to support employers with apprentices

If you are an employer, you may be able to take advantage of the Government’s “Apprenticeship Boost”, which will pay up to a total of $16,000 across the first two years of an apprenticeship.

The money will be paid directly to employers by the Ministry of Social Development. For first year apprentices, this is worth $1000 a month, and for the second year it is $500 a month. For more information click here.

Frequently Asked Questions – Apprenticeship Boost

What is the Apprenticeship Boost?

The Apprenticeship Boost pays employers up to $16,000 across the first 24 months of an apprenticeship. This is paid at $1000 a month for first-year apprentices, and at $500/month for second-year apprentices up to a maximum period of 24 months. This will be available from August 2020 until August 2022.

I am an employer and already have an apprentice. Can I still access the Apprenticeship Boost?

Yes. According to Work and Income, the Apprenticeship Boost “aims to provide support for employers to retain and take on new apprentices as the economy recovers from the impacts of COVID-19, so they can continue to earn and progress towards their qualifications”.

Employers can apply for the Apprenticeship Boost whether an apprentice has just started their training programme, or right up until near the end of their first two years. For more information click here.

Do I need to register with Primary ITO to access Apprenticeship Boost?

No. Work and Income is responsible for the Apprenticeship Boost. Employers who are interested need to apply through Work and Income.

What employee apprenticeship information do I need to apply?

You will need to answer the following questions in your application, and you can find these details in your apprentice’s training agreement/s: 

• Industry apprenticeship that they are training for 
• Apprenticeship start date (if you know this). 

How is the Apprenticeship Boost funding paid out?

The money will be paid directly to employers by Work and Income.

Where do I get information on Mana in Mahi, Group Training Schemes, and the Regional Apprenticeships Initiative?

You can find more details by visiting the Apprenticeship Support Programme page on the Work and Income website.

Enrolling your team member in an apprenticeship

As of 1 July 2020, the Government will cover training fees (Free Trades Training) until 31 December 2022 for learners training in many of our critically important primary sector industries – including Levels 3 and above on the New Zealand Qualifications Framework. 

For full information on the opportunities for you and your team, click here.