Looking to find an Apprenticeship or Traineeship?
Great choice. An apprenticeship or traineeship is the start of a real career — you’ll earn while you learn, gain hands-on experience, and work towards a nationally recognised qualification.
A Group Training Organisation is a great place to start
A Group Training Organisation (GTO) is a great place to start
Group Training Organisations (GTOs) employ apprentices and trainees and place them with one or more host employers. They provide support throughout the apprenticeship or traineeship — from start to finish.
GTOs operate across a wide range of industries, including construction, automotive, electrical, plumbing, engineering, childcare, business, retail, hospitality and more.
Why many people choose a GTO
Many people choose a GTO because they offer:
- Ongoing support and mentoring
- Opportunities to work with different workplaces and build broad skills
- Job continuity - if your placement ends early your GTO works hard to find you a new host employer
- Management of wages, insurance and paperwork
- Access to a wide network of employers and industries
Key steps
Get your application ready
You don’t need much to get started. A simple application should include:
- A résumé with your employment history, or if you don’t have that, your school subjects, any part-time work and interests
- A short statement about why you’re interested in the industry
- Any relevant certificates (e.g. White Card, First Aid, RSA), if you have them
- A referee (e.g. employer, teacher or coach)
Find a GTO that suits you
Every GTO is different — some focus on specific industries, while others operate in particular regions.
When choosing a GTO, think about
- Do they operate in your area?
- Do they specialise in the industry you’re interested in?
Use our directory to search by location and industry and connect with a GTO that matches your goals.
Are there other options?
Searching online
- Search job sites like Seek, Indeed and Jora
- Check the Australian Apprenticeships website
- Follow businesses you like on social media
- Look at company “Careers” pages
Talking to people
- Let family and friends know you’re looking
- Ask local businesses if they take on apprentices
- Attend careers expos or school information sessions
- Consider work experience to get a foot in the door
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the difference between an apprenticeship and a traineeship?
Apprenticeships are usually in trade areas like electrical, plumbing or automotive and take longer to complete. Traineeships are often in areas like business,childcare or hospitality and are generally shorter.
Is an apprenticeship a real job?
Yes. You sign an employment contract, get paid wages and have the same rights as other employees while you complete your training.
Do I need experience before I apply?
No. Most employers care more about attitude, reliability and interest in the industry than previous experience.
Who pays me if I’m with a GTO?
The GTO is your employer, so they pay your wages and organise your training and placements.
Can I change employers during my apprenticeship?
Yes. If you’re with a GTO you may rotate between host employers to build broader skills.
What happens when I finish?
You become qualified in your trade or occupation and can continue working, move to another employer, or even start your own business one day.