Elite athletes get fair playing field for apprenticeships and traineeships

3rd July, 2020

New flexible arrangements support elite athletes to access VET

Elite athletes get fair playing field for apprenticeships and traineeships

3rd July, 2020

New flexible arrangements support elite athletes to access VET

The State Government has opened up new career opportunities for Western Australian elite athletes, after reducing the minimum hours required for them to undertake an apprenticeship or traineeship. The EEAT arrangements will also help our elite athletes to diversify their interests during their sporting careers, while supporting them to transition to life after sport. The West Coast Eagles Football Club and Western Australian Institute of Sport have played a significant role in the change.

Doing an apprenticeship or traineeship part-time has been out of reach for many elite athletes because of managing the demands of sport with the requirement to fulfil a minimum number of hours in order to gain a qualification. Under the new EAAT, minimum part time hours will change from 15 or 20 hours per week to 7.5 hours per week for elite athletes, averaged over six month periods.

For more information on the EAAT arrangements including eligibility criteria and fact sheets, visit jobsandskills.wa.gov.au or call the Apprenticeship Office Helpline on 13 19 54.