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What are First Nations Apprenticeships? 

First Nations Apprenticeships support Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples to start, progress through, and complete apprenticeships across a range of trade industries. 

Whether you're just beginning your apprenticeship or already in training, APM provides practical support and mentoring designed to help you overcome challenges, stay on track, and achieve your career goals. 

We can help you:

  • Access culturally safe and personalised support 
  • Receive face-to-face mentoring and guidance 
  • Navigate training requirements and apprenticeship contracts 
  • Manage workplace challenges and barriers 
  • Stay motivated and on track to complete your apprenticeship 
  • Access available financial support and incentives 
  • Build long-term career opportunities in the trades 
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Eligibility Requirements 

Support is available for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander apprentices undertaking eligible apprenticeships and traineeships. 

Whether you're considering an apprenticeship, starting out, or already progressing through your qualification, our team can help you understand the support available. 

Why choose First Nations Apprenticeships?

At APM, we understand the importance of culturally safe support that respects individual goals, communities and experiences. 

First Nations specialist support

As Victoria's only First Nations Specialist Apprentice Connect Provider, we provide tailored support designed specifically for First Nations apprentices. 

Face-to-face mentoring

Receive practical guidance, encouragement and regular check-ins throughout your apprenticeship journey. 

Personalised assistance

Access support that reflects your individual circumstances, training requirements and career ambitions. 

Ongoing guidance

Get help navigating workplace expectations, training requirements and apprenticeship milestones.  

How First Nations Apprenticeships work

Your pathway to a successful career in the trades. 

1. Start your apprenticeship

Begin your apprenticeship in an eligible trade and connect with APM Apprenticeships for ongoing support. 

2. Access personalised mentoring

Work with a specialist mentor who can provide guidance, encouragement and practical assistance throughout your apprenticeship. 

3. Build skills and experience

Develop valuable trade skills, gain workplace experience and progress through your qualification. 

4. Complete your training

Achieve a nationally recognised qualification and build a foundation for long-term career success. 

Financial support to help you succeed

Eligible First Nations apprentices may be able to access a range of Australian Government payments, allowances and loans to help with training costs, tools, transport, living expenses, and the cost of completing their qualification. 

Explore the financial support that may be available to you below. 

Australian Apprentice Training Support Payment (AATSP) 

Eligible apprentices undertaking occupations on the Australian Apprenticeships Priority List may receive up to $2,500 over two years. 

Payment schedule 

  • Full-time apprentices: $625 at 6, 12, 18 and 24 months 
  • Part-time apprentices: $315 at 6 and 12 months, and $310 at 18 and 24 months 

Key Apprenticeship Program (KAP) 

Eligible apprentices working in housing construction or clean energy occupations may receive additional support of up to: 

  • $10,000 for full-time apprentices 
  • $5,000 for part-time apprentices 

Payment schedule 

  • Full-time: $2,000 at 6, 12, 24, 36 months and on completion 
  • Part-time: $1,000 at 6, 12, 24, 36 months and on completion 

Living Away From Home Allowance (LAFHA) 

If you've moved away from home to begin your apprenticeship, or you're experiencing homelessness, you may be eligible for financial support. 

Current weekly rates 

  • First 12 months: $125.52 
  • Second 12 months: $94.14 
  • Third 12 months: $47.07 

Australian Apprenticeship Support Loans (AASL) 

Eligible apprentices may access flexible loans to help cover costs such as: 

  • Tools and equipment 
  • Transport expenses 
  • Everyday living costs 

Maximum loan amount (2026–27): $27,048 

Income repayment threshold (2026–27): $69,528 

Useful links

Apprenticeship & Employment Resources

Financial Support & Concessions 

APM Support & Contact 

Frequently Asked Questions

Your feedback

At APM we welcome your comments and questions about your support.  

You can share your compliments, complaints, and feedback about APM Apprenticeships and all our employment services programs via our Feedback page. 

Give feedback

Ready to build your future? 

Whether you're just starting out or already working towards your qualification, APM Apprenticeships can provide the support, guidance and mentoring you need to succeed. 

Complete the form below or call 1800 276 221

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