Construction employers in Queensland may soon be eligible for new financial support through the Queensland Government’s TradieStart Apprentice Incentive program.

Commencing from 1 August 2026, the initiative is designed to support employers who hire and train apprentices in priority construction and trade occupations. Eligible businesses may be able to access financial incentives to help offset the costs of employing and supporting apprentices.

Incentive Payments Available

Employers can receive incentive payments at key employment milestones, with payments available after six months and 18 months of employment.

Small Businesses (1–19 Employees)

Eligible small businesses may receive:

• Up to $10,000–$14,000 for eligible apprentices
• Up to $16,000 where the apprentice identifies as a priority cohort, including:
  • Women
  • First Nations peoples
  • Veterans
  • People with disability

Medium and Large Businesses (20+ Employees)

Eligible medium and large businesses, as well as Group Training Organisations, may receive:

• Up to $10,000–$14,000 where the apprentice identifies as a priority cohort

Eligible Trades

The incentive applies to a broad range of construction and electrical apprenticeships, including:

• Carpentry
• Plumbing
• Electrotechnology Electrician
• Refrigeration and Air Conditioning
• Cabinet Making
• Painting and Decorating
• Bricklaying
• Roof Plumbing
• Landscape Construction
• Engineering Trades

And many more eligible occupations.

Important Dates

• 1 August 2026 – Apprentice must commence or recommence employment on or after this date
• 1 August 2026 – Registrations open
• Funding is limited and available for the first 2,500 placements

How Mas National Can Help

As an Apprenticeship Connect Provider, Mas National (Mas) can support employers through the process by assisting with:

• Eligibility assessments
• Apprentice sign-ups
• Ongoing apprentice and employer support
• Mentoring and retention services

Find Out More

Employers interested in assessing their eligibility can complete the online enquiry form: Complete the TradieStart enquiry form.

Further information about the program is available on the Queensland Government TradieStart webpage.