Wage pressure relief for tradies - QLD’s new apprentice subsidy explained

If you’re running a trade or construction business in Central QLD, you know apprentice wages can stack up quickly, especially in those early years when they’re still learning the ropes.

Now, there’s some real relief on the table.

From 1 July 2025, the Queensland Government launched the Small Business Apprenticeship Pilot Program (SBAPP), offering eligible small and family-run businesses up to 50% of apprentice wages reimbursed.

It’s already helping local builders, plumbers, electricians and engineers ease payroll pressure and invest in team growth, but there’s a limit: only the first 2,000 apprentices across the state will qualify. Once that cap is hit, the program closes.

So if this applies to you, now’s the time to act.

What’s the subsidy worth?

Here’s what’s on offer if your apprentice started from 1 July 2025 and is still actively training:

• 50% wage subsidy in years 1 and 2
• 25% subsidy in years 3 and 4
• Paid quarterly in arrears, once their training attendance is confirmed
• No clawbacks if the apprentice leaves, the funds you’ve received stay with you

This is real money back in your business, not a future tax offset, not a bonus you have to chase. It’s designed to take pressure off your payroll right now.

👉 Check official eligibility criteria here

Why GTC clients are jumping on this

We’ve already run the numbers with a few local clients and the impact is clear. For some, it’s the difference between saying yes to hiring or putting it off another year.

“We’ve had builders and electricians holding off on taking someone new. But with this subsidy, hiring becomes a strategic move, not a cost risk.”

– Jody Smith, GTC

This subsidy doesn’t just lighten the wage load, it gives you flexibility to hire sooner, build your team, and capture more work with less strain.

Your next steps

If you think this might apply to your business (or even if you’re unsure) here’s what we recommend:

Start with the official program info and see if your apprentice and business meet the criteria.

👉 View eligibility

2. Book a chat with our team

We’ll walk you through the details, confirm if you qualify, and help you take the right next steps, without getting lost in paperwork.

👉 Book now

3. Factor it into your cashflow

We’ll help you run a scenario forecast with and without the subsidy, so you can see what it unlocks in terms of payroll flexibility, new projects, or hiring timelines.

Final thoughts from the team

We’ve been supporting small and medium business owners across Gladstone and Central QLD for over 25 years. We’ve seen plenty of government programs come and go, but this one’s practical, targeted, and worth acting on.

Don’t wait until the 2,000 cap is hit and you’re left thinking, “We should’ve jumped on that.”

We’re here to help you grow confidently - with the right advice, at the right time.