Information for councils

All NSW local councils, county councils and joint organisations are eligible to apply for Fresh Start Program grants. There is no limit to how many positions you can apply to recruit in any round, and if you’ve received funding in previous rounds, you can still apply in future rounds. 

The next round of grants will open for applications in 2026. New projects and 2026 workshop dates will also be announced soon.

What each grant covers

Each grant funds 100% of the rate of pay for a new apprentice, trainee or cadet*, plus an additional 15% to support costs associated with the recruit’s employment.

Grants are provided for the nominal (shortest) term of an apprenticeship or traineeship and for up to 2 years if the role is a cadetship. The funding is solely to pay the trainee, apprentice or cadet’s wage – education and training costs are not included. 

The additional 15% funding is to go towards on-costs such as the minimum superannuation guarantee or increase in workers compensation.

The full conditions of the grant will be set out in a funding deed. 

*Per clause 32C of the Local Government (State) Award 2023 (Clause 7 Rates of Pay – Table 1 of Part B).

Read our frequently asked questions for further information about the grant program including recruit eligibility, cadetships and funding.

Under NSW laws, employers must enter a contract, approved by Training Services (part of NSW Department of Education), with each apprentice/trainee. An Apprentice Connect Australia Provider will work with you, free of charge, to prepare, complete and register these training contracts.

Reporting will be via the SmartyGrants. In the first instance, you will need to submit a Training Services establishment letter to OLG, through the commencement form.  Administrative reporting and grant acquittal will follow. Download a sample establishment letter (PDF, XX KB).

The Fresh Start program also offers upskilling for existing council employees in critical and emerging skills areas. These training programs ensure council workers have the skills they need to deliver the services communities need. 

The upskilling opportunities include Fresh Start Supervisor Workshops, Electric Vehicle Servicing and Repair, Electrical Instrumentation, Water and Wastewater Cross-Skilling, Civil Construction, and Leadership. 

Fresh Start Supervisor Workshops are an opportunity for council staff to upskill. Co-designed with councils, the sessions train supervisors to support apprentices, trainees and cadets using effective communication, mentoring and leadership techniques.

The workshops are free to attend for council staff and cover topics including: 

• workplace supervision
• understanding apprentice and trainee training plans
• effective communication in the workplace
• emotional intelligence and leadership
• building inclusive supervision practices
• WHS responsibilities and mentoring essentials.

Workshops are held across NSW with both in-person and online options available.