Building the Future Workforce: What Employers Need to Know About the Key Apprenticeship Program (KAP)
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From 1 July 2025, employers in the clean energy and housing construction sectors have an opportunity to support the next generation of skilled tradespeople through the Key Apprenticeship Program (KAP). This new initiative delivers up to $10,000 in financial support to eligible apprentices as they commence or recommence their training in high-demand occupations.
KAP is designed to address workforce shortages in priority sectors by attracting new talent, improving retention, and driving completions in trades essential to Australia’s future infrastructure and energy needs. The program is delivered through two dedicated stream
New Energy Apprenticeship (NEA) stream – supporting apprentices in the Clean Energy Sector which includes activities involved in:
- designing, developing, constructing, and operating the infrastructure for generating, storing, transmitting, and distributing energy from renewable, zero or low emissions energy sources.
- reducing or managing energy use.
- installing and maintaining the technology that uses clean energy rather than fossil fuels.
Housing Construction Apprenticeship (HCA) stream – supporting apprentices in the Housing Construction Sector which involves building, repairing and remodelling structures that are intended to operate as a fixed dwelling. Fixed dwellings may include, but are not limited to:
- Houses
- Apartments; and
- Nursing homes.
Financial support is provided to eligible apprentices at milestone intervals throughout their training, with full-time apprentices receiving $2,000 at 6, 12, 24, and 36 months, and on completion. Part-time apprentices receive $1,000 per milestone.
Key trades include electricians, plumbers, roofers, fitters, welders, carpenters, cabinet makers, air conditioning technicians, and many more across both traditional and emerging sectors.
To be eligible, apprentices must be undertaking a Certificate III, Diploma or Advanced Diploma in a listed priority qualification, and be employed in roles that offer meaningful work, experience, and exposure to the clean energy or housing construction industries.
To learn more about eligibility and how your business can participate, contact your Apprentice Connect Australia Provider or visit the Key Apprenticeship Program | Australian Apprenticeships website.
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