Support services for apprentices and trainees
Whatever the issue, training, employment or personal, know that there are things you can do and people to provide support during your apprenticeship or traineeship. Support may include:
- confidential advice to resolve issues yourself
- specialist support services to assist you
- advocacy and peer support networks to empower you
- local health and community services.
Bullying, harassment and unfair treatment of any kind is never okay. It is serious and can be a criminal offence. Learn about workplace bullying and how to get help for yourself or to help someone else.
Apprenticeship or traineeship issues
Find tips on solving problems in the workplace and with your training organisation, as well as how to make a complaint.
Advocacy and support services
A range of organisations provide specialised advocacy and support services. If you are experiencing problems, learn more about your options and don't be afraid to ask for help. Services are often personalised and confidential.
Women in Trades Mentoring Program
Free mentoring and support is available to first and second year female apprentices in the following industries:
- automotive – MTA Queensland
- construction – Housing Industry Association and Master Builders Queensland
- electrical – Energy Skills Queensland
- manufacturing – Manufacturing Skills Queensland.
Fair Work Ombudsman
The Fair Work Ombudsman provides information and advice on workplace matters, and works to ensure compliance with the Fair Work Act 2009, helping to prevent and stop bullying, sexual harassment and discrimination in your workplace.
Phone 13 13 94
WorkSafe Queensland
WorkSafe Queensland is Queensland's work health and safety regulator – providing information and tools to help manage risks, protect the health, safety and wellbeing of workers, and ensure work health and safety laws are followed and enforced.
Phone 1300 362 128
Human rights commissions
Australian and Queensland human rights commissions investigate complaints of workplace bullying, harassment or discrimination based on a person's race, sex, age, sexual orientation, religion or disability under human rights laws. Services may include conciliation between parties to reach a resolution.
Australian Human Rights Commission
Phone 1300 369 711
Queensland Human Rights Commission
Phone 1300 130 670
Respect@Work
Respect@Work has various resources to better understand, prevent and address workplace sexual harassment, including how to get help. You'll also find your rights and obligations under the Sex Discrimination Act 1984, including the duty of employers to prevent workplace sexual harassment, sex discrimination and victimisation.
Working Women Queensland
Working Women Queensland assists vulnerable women with work-related matters, such as unfair treatment, underpayment and conditions of employment.
Phone 1800 621 458
Professional networks for women
Learn about the benefits of professional networking and find a women's network for your industry.
TIACS (This is a conversation starter)
TIACS is a free and confidential chat, text and callback service, providing early intervention mental health support for Australia's truckies, tradies, blue collar workers and those who care about them.
Phone or text 0488 846 988
Mates in Construction
Mates, serving the construction industry in Queensland, provides community development programs on sites, and supports workers in need through case management and a 24/7 helpline.
Phone 1300 642 111
BUSY Sisters
The BUSY Sisters mentoring program is specifically designed to support and mentor women to be successful in progressing through their non-traditional apprenticeship or traineeship.
Email info@busysisters.com.au
Kids Helpline
Kids Helpline is Australia's only free (even from a mobile), confidential 24/7 online and phone counselling service for youth people aged 5 to 25.
Phone 1800 55 1800
Mental health services
If you or someone you care about is distressed, in crisis, suicidal or needs someone to talk to, you can access 24/7 confidential, non-judgemental support from providers such as local health professionals and Lifeline.
1800RESPECT
1800RESPECT is the national domestic family and sexual violence counselling service, offering 24-hour counselling, information and referral services.
Phone 1800 737 732 (1800RESPECT)
Relationships Australia
Relationships Australia provides counselling and family dispute resolution services to individuals, families and communities.
Phone 1300 364 277
Local community services
Find support services in your local area to help you with various topics, such as general health services, mental health, domestic and family violence, parenting and living support. Visit community support or My Community Directory.
Tax advice
The Australian Taxation Office (ATO) has prepared a tailored occupation guide for apprentices including helpful tips and resources to make tax time easier.
Legal advice and representation
The Queensland Civil and Administrative Tribunal (QCAT) provides general information regarding obtaining legal advice and representation.
Support for youth
The Queensland Government has a range of information and services available for youth.
Sortli (short for 'sort out your life') is the ultimate guide to becoming an adult. It's fun, informative and easy to navigate and can be installed on your Apple or Android mobile device.
Don't know where to turn?
We can provide information and advice regarding your support options as well as referral services.