Apprentices are paid a percentage of the qualified tradesperson rate that rises each year. Estimate the wage for a 1st, 2nd, 3rd or 4th-year apprentice in seconds.
As your apprentice moves up each year, keep their true cost rate current in traqR so every job they touch is costed and priced right.
Start free trialApprentices are paid a percentage of the qualified tradesperson rate in the relevant award — so the first step is that base hourly rate.
The percentage rises each year of the apprenticeship, and is often a little higher in the early years if the apprentice completed Year 12.
On top of the wage you pay the 12% super guarantee and normal on-costs — an apprentice is still cheaper than a tradesperson, but not free.
Apprentice minimum pay is set as a percentage of the qualified tradesperson rate in the award that covers your trade, rising each year of the apprenticeship. As a rough guide it runs from around 50–55% in first year to about 90% in fourth year. Always confirm the exact percentages and rates in the specific award for your trade and state.
In many awards, yes — an apprentice who has completed Year 12 is paid a slightly higher percentage in the early years than one who hasn’t. The gap usually closes by third or fourth year. Check the award’s apprentice wage table for the exact figures.
Adult apprentices (generally 21 and over when they start) often have a higher minimum wage floor than junior apprentices, sometimes tied to a lower-level classification rate. This calculator uses the standard percentage approach, so check the adult apprentice provisions in your award if that applies.
Yes. Apprentices are employees with the same core entitlements — 12% superannuation, annual leave, personal/carer’s leave and public holidays — plus any tool or training allowances in the award. Time at TAFE is generally paid as ordinary hours too.
This calculator is a general estimate, not industrial-relations advice. Apprentice percentages, rates, allowances and adult-apprentice rules vary by award, trade, state and year. Always confirm the current minimum against the relevant Fair Work modern award before setting pay.
As your apprentice moves up each year, traqR keeps their cost rate current so every job is priced properly. Try it free for 14 days.