Roles and responsibilities of a GTO
- Generating extra employment opportunities for apprenticeships and traineeships that might not be available.
- Ensuring consistent employment for apprentices and trainees until their Apprenticeship/Traineeship Training Contract is fulfilled.
- Enhancing the quality and variety of training accessible to apprentices and trainees, particularly in small to medium-sized businesses.
As the legal employer of an Australian Apprentice, a GTO carries out various duties:
- Placing the Australian Apprentice in suitable positions.
- Selecting and recruiting Australian Apprentices.
- Managing and ensuring timely payment of wages, allowances, superannuation, workers’ compensation, and other work-related benefits.
- Overseeing the quality and continuity of training, both on and off the job.
- Providing additional support and ongoing care ensures the apprentice completes their training successfully.
- Monitoring the apprentice’s progress according to their training plan.
- Handling all administrative aspects of Australian Apprenticeships
Several GTOs also:
- Assist apprentices and trainees in transitioning successfully into the skilled workforce upon qualification.
- Rotate apprentices and trainees among host employers to ensure continuity in their Training Contracts and enrich their training experience.
- Offer access to apprenticeships and traineeships for individuals facing disadvantages in the labour market.
- Deliver community services that promote vocational education and training while fostering employment expansion.
Benefits of hosting an apprentice through a GTO
There are several reasons why hiring an apprentice through a Group Training Organisation (GTO) can be advantageous. Partnering with a GTO streamlines the process of hiring and training apprentices, offering a range of benefits that support both the employer and the apprentice in their professional growth.
Flexibility
GTOs provide flexibility in managing apprentices, allowing for a smooth transition between placements or projects.
Reduced administrative burden
GTOs handle administrative tasks, including payroll, contracts, and compliance, reducing the employer’s administrative workload.
Cost-effectiveness
Employers share training and employment costs with the GTO, making it financially viable for businesses of various sizes.
Access to a talent pool
GTOs maintain a pool of skilled apprentices, providing employers access to a broader range of potential candidates.
Risk mitigation
GTOs assume some risks associated with employing apprentices, such as management issues or unexpected termination of contracts.
Training expertise
GTOs often have robust training programs and experienced trainers, ensuring apprentices receive high-quality training.
Support and guidance
GTOs offer ongoing support and guidance to the apprentice and the employer throughout the apprenticeship.
Adaptability
GTOs can adjust to changing business needs by providing apprentices with different skills or relocating them to various projects or departments.
Enhanced workforce diversity
Partnering with a GTO allows businesses to promote diversity by accessing apprentices from various backgrounds and experiences.
Compliance assurance
GTOs ensure compliance with all relevant regulations and standards, reducing the employer’s legal risks.
Roles and responsibilities of the host employer
A host employer is an organisation that hosts an Australian Apprentice employed by a GTO under a written host employer agreement. The host employer provides supervision and on-the-job training and pays the GTO for the Australian Apprentice’s services.
The host employer agreement specifies the responsibilities of each party in relation to the Australian Apprentice’s training and the charge out rate payable, including:
- The host employer’s responsibilities in training and supporting the Australian Apprentice while in their workplace
- The host employer’s obligations to maintain a safe workplace
- The host employer must work cooperatively with the GTO and registered training organisation.
Useful links
Australian Apprenticeships How to employ an apprentice
Infrastructure NSW Women in Construction
Master Builders Apprenticeship Services
Training Services NSW How to employ an apprentice or trainee
Training Services NSW Steps to employ an apprentice or trainee guide