Employers
Please find below answers to many of the questions we are frequently asked about having an apprentice in the Kickstart Mentoring Service.
Q: Are we eligible for the Kickstart Bonus of $3,350?
A: If your apprentice is 19 years or younger, if the trade being undertaken is on the National Skills Needs List and if you have less than 200 employees, then yes, you are potentially eligible for the bonus.
Q: How do I know if the trade being undertaken is on the National Skills Needs List?
A: By contacting your local MAS National Kickstart Mentor on 1800 578 278.
Q: How long is the Apprentice Kickstart Bonus available for?
A: The Apprentice Kickstart Extension is payable for commencements from 1 December 2009 – 28 February 2010 or from 12 May until 12 November 2010 (inclusive).
Q: How are the Kickstart Bonus payments made?
A: Payments are made as follows:
- $1500 Standard Commencement Incentive payable after 3 months
- $850 Kickstart Commencement Bonus payable after 3 months
- $2500 Kickstart Retention Bonus payable after 9 months
At the time of the due date, a claim form will be mailed to you, which you need to complete and send back to us. Once we have received the claim form the payments will be transferred directly into your nominated bank account.
Q: What is a Kickstart Mentor?
A: A mentor is a dedicated staff member who can provide extra, non-biased support to both you as the employer and your apprentice.
Q: What kind of assistance?
A: If you have any issues that are impacting on your apprentice’s work placement, our mentors are happy to assist with advice, information or referrals that may help.