Apprenticeships and traineeships

Explore apprenticeships and traineeships, which combine hands-on work experience with formal study to gain specific skills. An apprenticeship or traineeship lets you combine paid work with formal training. Courses include theoretical and practical learning to build job-ready skills, and you gain a nationally recognised qualification upon completion. Training is delivered through a registered provider, often a Victorian TAFE.

What’s the difference?

Apprenticeships

Focus on skilled trades like construction, hairdressing, cooking, electrical or automotive.
Usually take up to 4 years to complete.
Ideal if you want to become a qualified tradesperson.

Traineeships

Cover vocational roles like admin, childcare, IT or retail.
Often shorter than apprenticeships.
Great for building skills in a wide range of industries.

Why choose this path?

Get paid while you learn
Build real-world experience
Graduate with a nationally recognised qualification

Who is it for?

Apprenticeships and traineeships are a good fit for:

school students starting early through school-based programs
school leavers wanting a direct path into work
career changers looking to learn practical skills while earning an income
workers wanting to upskill or gain formal qualifications.

Whether you’re just starting out or switching careers, these programs offer a flexible way to learn on the job.

Get started with an apprenticeship or traineeship

Apprenticeships Victoria

Visit the Apprenticeships Victoria website to explore high-quality and safe apprenticeships and traineeships.

Economic Growth Statement

Mini vic.gov.au

Apprenticeships and traineeships

What’s the difference?