Get paid while you train. With an apprenticeship or traineeship, you’ll gain practical experience in the workplace while learning in the classroom – working towards a nationally recognised qualification.

Starting an apprenticeship or traineeship? Here are some suggestions to help you prepare:

Explore

Find the right path for you:

• Take our Study Seeker Quiz.
• Browse career options and job descriptions.
• Explore TAFE NSW course areas.
• Download the TAFE NSW career guide.

Talk

Chat with an Apprenticeship Connect Australia Provider (ACAP) to:

• help you choose the right apprenticeship or traineeship
• get help finding an employer
• access ongoing support and advice.

Discover

Search for apprenticeships and traineeships with:

• Workforce Australia
• State Government organisations
• Australian Apprenticeships

Try before you commit

Not sure yet? Fee-free pre-apprenticeship and pre-traineeship courses let you test the waters. Plus, they count towards your full qualification if you decide to continue.

For more information, call 131 601 or visit the web page below.

When you're ready to begin, your ACAP, employer and TAFE NSW will guide you through the process. We offer two start dates – February and July – so your timing depends on when you sign up with your ACAP.

The process is simple:

1. Sign your contract and Training Plan Proposal (TPP) – Your ACAP will help you and your employer to create these documents.
2. Your ACAP sends us your TPP – This usually happens within 48 hours.
3. We review and approve your TPP – We’ll check that your course is available and return the signed TPP to your ACAP –usually within two weeks.
4. Enrol with TAFE NSW – Once your course enrolment opens, we’ll confirm your spot and send you an enrolment link or form. If you’re under 17, a parent or guardian will need to co-sign.
5. Your ACAP lodges your TPP and contract – Your ACAP submits these to Training Services for approval, usually within two weeks.
6. Registration complete – Once Training Services approves everything, your Apprenticeship or Traineeship is officially registered. You’ll receive a confirmation letter and your Training ID.
7. Develop your Training Plan – We’ll work with you and your employer to create a plan with key dates, assessments and more  – this happens within 12 weeks of your contract approval.

Once you’ve completed these steps, you’re ready to start learning on the job.

Fee-free apprenticeships

Skilled trades are in high demand across Australia, making now the perfect time to start a fee-free apprenticeship at TAFE NSW. With your student fees covered by the NSW Government, you can train for a rewarding career without the financial burden.

Apprenticeships combine practical training with formal study, so you’ll gain real-world experience while earning a salary.

Smart and Skilled fee-free traineeship

Take advantage of 70,000 fee-free traineeships funded by the NSW Government until 31 December 2025. This is your chance to enrol at TAFE NSW, gain in-demand skills, and get job-ready – all with no student fees.

Traineeships blend structured learning with on-the-job training, so you’ll develop practical skills while getting paid.

School-Based Apprenticeships and Traineeships (SBAT)

Get a head start on your career while completing your HSC. A SBAT at TAFE NSW lets you combine study with valuable workplace experience.

Whether you choose an apprenticeship or traineeship, you’ll earn while you learn, build industry connections and graduate with a nationally recognised qualification.

Start your future today with TAFE NSW.

Have questions about apprenticeships or traineeships?

Call 131 601 and choose the Apprentices and Trainees option, or send us a message below.