Apprenticeship Boost FAQs
Course details
About the course
Apprenticeship Boost is part of the Apprenticeship Support Programme.
FAQs
What is Apprenticeship Boost?
Apprenticeship Boost is a government programme that provides employers with up to $500 per month for each apprentice in their first year of training.
This support helps businesses in key industries train apprentices to develop New Zealand's skilled workforce. The apprentice must be enrolled in an eligible Level 4 apprenticeship for the employer to qualify.
How does Apprentice Boost support employers and business to retain and bring on new apprentices?
The programme supports businesses in essential industries, ensuring they can continue developing skilled workers, which helps address workforce shortages and boost economic growth.
Apprenticeship Boost provides financial assistance of up to $500 per month for each apprentice's first year. This helps employers cover the costs of training and encourages them to bring on new apprentices or retain an existing one.
How long does it run?
From 1 January 2025, employers can receive Apprenticeship Boost payments for up to 12 months for each apprentice. This support applies to apprentices in their first year of training enrolled in eligible Level 4 programmes.
Employers who are already receiving the boost can continue receiving it for apprentices who are still within their first year of training into 2025.
Can an employer with existing apprentices apply?
Yes, employers with existing apprentices can apply for Apprenticeship Boost.
If the apprentice is in their first 12 months of training and enrolled in an eligible Level 4 programme, the employer can receive up to $500 per month in financial support, even for apprentices who were onboarded before the new funding changes in 2025.
Are ServiceIQ Apprenticeships included?
Yes, ServiceIQ Apprenticeships are included in the Apprenticeship Boost scheme.
Employers with apprentices in ServiceIQ-managed industries such as aviation and hospitality can apply for financial support under the scheme.
However, funding for retail apprentices will cease from 2025.
How do I apply?
To apply for Apprenticeship Boost, employers must submit their application through the Work and Income website.
You’ll need to provide details about your business and confirm your apprentice’s enrolment in an eligible Level 4 apprenticeship programme. The process involves verifying training details and meeting eligibility requirements.
For a step-by-step guide and to start your application, visit the Work and Income Apprenticeship Boost page.
Who can I talk to about ServiceIQ’s Apprenticeship programme and Apprenticeship Boost?
If you already have a ServiceIQ Sector Advisor, you can talk to them or click here to find your local ServiceIQ Advisor.
Alternatively, you can email [email protected] or call 0800 863 693.
Are there other initiatives to support employers of apprentices?
Yes, along with Apprenticeship Boost, there are other initiatives to support employers of apprentices, such as Mana in Mahi, which provides wage subsidies, and Regional Apprenticeships Initiatives, offering targeted support in specific regions.
Employers may also access training subsidies and mentoring through these programmes to ensure apprentices receive comprehensive on-the-job training.
About the provider
On-job training takes place in your workplace. It means that you, as an employee, gain essential skills and knowledge while doing your job.
You learn the specific skills for your job and career and, by upskilling in the real work environment, gain the know-how plus proven experience to solve problems, meet challenges and deal with tasks that you will face day to day.
You also get the satisfaction of earning while you learn, and gaining a national qualification.
We offer a full range of on-job training programmes, apprenticeships and quick online courses for the retail, hospitality, travel, tourism, museums and aviation sectors.
Our programmes are designed for people at every level of the business, from new entrant to supervisor and manager.
Our expert training advisors are also there to support you and your employer throughout the process from enrollment to assessment and successful completion of the programme.