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Apprenticeship toolkit

Need more help with an apprenticeship or traineeship? Check out our step-by-step guide and view video tips from the experts in our Jobseeker Toolkit.

Solving a Dispute

Most of the time, apprentices and trainees really enjoy their training.  But sometimes there’s a problem or issue where you need help. The best thing to do when you see a problem is to seek advice.

Common Problems that Apprentices and Trainees Face

Here are a few of the problems that apprentices and trainees have faced in the past:

  • Not being happy with the quality of training
  • Being harassed or discriminated against
  • Being underpaid
  • Unsafe workplaces
  • Employers being unhappy with your work

If you're facing similar problems, or if your problem is unrelated to the list of problems above, there are people you can talk to to find help.

Who to Go to for Advice

An Apprenticeship Field Officer (new window) can help you out with disputes, counselling and advice.

The Department of Education and Early Childhood Development's Apprenticeships and Traineeships website (new window) also has answers to common problems experienced during training.

Cancelling a Contract

During the first three months of your apprenticeship or traineeship contract, either you or the employer can cancel your contract. This three-month period is known as the "probationary period".

After the probationary period is over, an apprenticeship can only be cancelled or suspended if you both agree to cancel it.

A traineeship can be cancelled or suspended by either the employer or the trainee at any time, even after the probationary period is over.

For more information about your rights as an apprentice, check out our Apprentice and trainee rights page.

Links

Apprenticeships and Traineeships
The Victorian Government has a range of guides and resources about apprenticeships and traineeships in Victoria.

Australian Apprenticeships
The Federal Government's apprenticeships and traineeships scheme (formerly New Apprenticeships).

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