From 1 January 2026, changes to the Australian Apprenticeships Incentive System came into effect, adjusting payment levels while retaining marine trades on the Australian Apprenticeships Priority List.
This means marine employers who sign apprentices into Certificate III or higher qualifications — including Certificate III in Marine Craft Construction (MEM30719) and Certificate III in Marine Mechanical Technology (AUR30520) — remain eligible for Australian Government incentives, subject to meeting the program criteria.
What’s changed
- Priority Hiring Incentive (Employers): up to $2,500 for a fulltime apprentice (paid at 6 and 12 months)
- Australian Apprentice Training Support Payment (Apprentices): up to $2,500 for a fulltime apprentice (paid across the first two years)
- Parttime and school based apprentices are eligible for 50 per cent of the fulltime rate
- Grandfathering applies: apprentices who commenced before 1 January 2026 retain previous higher incentive amounts
Why this matters for marine businesses
The continued inclusion of marine construction and marine mechanical trades on the Priority List confirms the industry’s ongoing workforce need and ensures employers are still supported to invest in skilled, trade qualified employees.
Learn more
If you’re planning to take on an apprentice or upskill an existing employee, now is a good time to review how these incentives may support your workforce planning.
