New GTO Reimbursement Program Makes Hosting an Apprentice More Affordable

In a major boost for small and medium enterprises (SMEs), the Federal Government has announced the Group Training Organisation Reimbursement Program (GTORP)—an initiative designed to make it easier for businesses to host apprentices. The program, which launches on 1 January 2025, will offer reimbursement of up to $5,200 over 52 weeks for SMEs that haven’t had an apprentice in the past two years, helping offset the usual service fees charged by a Group Training Organisation (GTO).

How the GTORP Works

• $5,200 Total Benefit: The program pays GTOs $100 per week (up to 52 weeks) in reimbursement. GTOs must pass this on to eligible SMEs by reducing their normal service fees or charge-out rates.
• Quarterly Payments: Reimbursement is paid in four instalments of $1,300 each—at weeks 13, 26, 39, and 52—so long as the placement remains active.
• Limited Places: The GTORP is capped at 400 placements nationwide and ends once these places are filled or on 1 January 2026, whichever comes first.

Are You Eligible?

If you’re an SME (with up to 199 employees) that has not engaged or hosted an apprentice in the last two years, you could qualify for one of these 400 reimbursed placements. Each SME can only access one reimbursed placement, while each GTO can offer up to 20 placements (with 20% reserved for women apprentices).

Why Now Is the Perfect Time to Host an Apprentice

1. Reduced Financial Barriers: With up to $5,200 in cost offsets, it’s never been more affordable to bring fresh talent on board.
2. Skilled Workforce Pipeline: An apprentice gains real-world experience while contributing to your day-to-day operations.
3. No Hassle Employment: The GTO (as the legal employer) handles recruitment, training coordination, mentoring, and payroll—removing much of the red tape for you.

Why Partner with EGT?

• 35 Years of Experience: As the largest employer of electrical apprentices in WA, EGT has a proven track record of delivering highly qualified, job-ready apprentices.
• Full Support Services: We handle all employer responsibilities, from recruitment and training coordination to mentoring and payroll.
• Expert Guidance: Our team ensures you meet all GTORP eligibility criteria, helping you secure those valuable reimbursement dollars without the headache.

Ready to Secure Your GTORP Placement?

With only 400 places available nationwide, now’s the time to act. If you’re an SME in Western Australia looking to boost your workforce without bearing the full cost of hiring an apprentice, reach out to EGT. We’ll guide you step-by-step—from confirming your eligibility to managing your reimbursed placement—so you can focus on what you do best: running your business.

Contact EGT today to learn more about how you can take advantage of the new GTO Reimbursement Program and become a host employer for the next generation of skilled workers in WA.