3 Changes to Funding Initiatives

Released 27/03/08

DEEWR has approved changes to 3 funding Initiatives effective from 1 January 2008. They are:

#1 - Prior Qualification Rule Lifted*

Incentives will now be available for Australian Apprentices and employers of Australian Apprentices with prior qualifications above Certificate II commencing in Skills Shortage Trades

Previously employers and Australian Apprentices with qualifications above Certificate II level were excluded from receiving incentives. This rule has now been lifted for Australian Apprentices/trainees starting in Skills Shortage Trades

* These changes apply to Australian Apprentices commencing from 1 January 2008


#2 - Incentives for Early Completers*

Formerly Australian Apprentices who completed early missed out on one or both of the Commonwealth Trade Learning Scholarship payments.

This new initiative will see Australian Apprentices who complete within 12 months receive one $500 payment. Those completing within the second year will receive one $500 payment when they reach 12 months, then a second $500 payment when they complete successfully.

* These changes apply to Australian Apprentices completing on or after 1 January 2008


#3 - School-based Apprentices eligible for Living Away From Home Allowance (LAFHA)*

The Living Away From Home Allowance (LAFHA) has been extended to include Australian School-based Apprentices

* These changes apply to Australian School Based Apprentices commencing from 1 January 2008

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