Frequently Asked Questions

... for Apprentices
... for Host Employers

For Apprentices

How do I apply for an apprenticeship?

Applying for an apprenticeship with BIGA is simple. Either give us a phone call on 1300-00-BIGA (2442) or email us at: info@biga.com.au

Alternatively, you can apply online, by filling out this Application Form and sending it through to us.

What is the usual process for becoming an apprentice at BIGA?

When looking to become an apprentice with BIGA, you will be invited to come into our office at Brendale, Queensland so that we can get to know you a little more, including your interests, skills and thoughts towards your apprenticeship, so we can discuss your options and get things moving in the right direction!

Once we have confirmed which apprenticeship you would like to undertake, we take care of all the paperwork. Initially, we will sit down with you to discuss your apprenticeship, talk about placement options, clarify arrangements, finalise paperwork and have you settled in - in no time!

During completion of your apprenticeship we provide ongoing support and routinely conduct informal meetings to ensure you are happy with your apprenticeship placement and are thriving!

We want to see you complete your apprenticeship and come out the other end with all the skills and knowledge necessary to kick start your career.  

What are the hours I will work as an apprentice?

Apprenticeships at BIGA are generally broken into two areas:

• Classroom learning and technical training in the workshops at Biga Academy in Brendale or via other educational providers arranged by BIGA, and
• On-the-job work at your place of employment

When working within the classroom, apprentices generally work 8:30 am - 5:00 pm and similar hours are expected on-the-job.   Hours in the workplace may vary depending on the working arrangements of the host employer.  

How long will it take to complete my apprenticeship?

This will vary depending on your chosen apprenticeship.  Generally full-time completion of an apprenticeship will range from 3 - 4 yrs.

Do I have to travel to complete my apprenticeship?

It is expected that in order to carry out your apprenticeship you will have your own means of transportation to travel to BIGA at Brendale, Queensland or any other training provider and to your workplace or various sites where required by your employer.

What if I don't know what type of apprenticeship I should be doing?

BIGA can arrange to have a friendly chat with you to work through all of your options.  By getting to know you a little better, your interests, skills and strengths, we can suggest the most suitable apprenticeship on offer.  We can give you the grand tour of BIGA in order to give you a better feel of the place. You are welcome to bring along a partner, friend or parent if you wish.

What age or status must I have to be an apprentice at BIGA?

At BIGA, all you need to have is an interest in working outdoors and an orientation for hands on work.   BIGA is an equal opportunity employer that encourages both males and females of any age group (14+) and background to apply.

Regardless of whether you are looking to finish your apprenticeship or start fresh with no previous training, BIGA will source an apprenticeship placement and provide you with all the necessary skills to be successful in your chosen field.

How much would I get paid while completing my apprenticeship?

Your wages will depend on the particular apprenticeship you have chosen, the level at which you are at (years completed), award rates set by government and agreements made by your employer.

How much would I earn once I have completed my apprenticeship?

This will depend on a range of variables including the type of apprenticeship undertaken, the type of role you undertake and the scope of responsibility involved.   Minimum wage levels are set by government and these apply to industry.   

As a guide only:

For Host Employers

How do I become a Host Employer with BIGA?

In just a few simple steps, hiring an apprentice is made easy with BIGA.

• Contact us via telephone or send an email enquiry form to get the ball rolling to source an apprentice that meets your needs and suits your workplace
• Choose an apprentice from a group determined suitable and carefully selected by BIGA
• Take an apprentice on that will work with you to learn the ropes, be productive and contribute to your bottom line from one week to four years!
• BIGA handle all the paperwork and administration including worker's compensation/industrial relations issues
• Payment is inclusive meaning the hourly rate you pay covers everything from wages, holiday and sick pay, public holidays, taxes, insurance and worker's compensation also superannuation
• BIGA provides apprentices with the tools they need and we also organise the technical and off-the-job training in our classrooms and workshops
• Should your business situation change, you can stop the apprenticeship program at any time.    This allows you to manage risk, resources and business matters in a responsive and simple manner
• Enjoy the support by BIGA and complete the apprenticeship program. BIGA will remain involved to ensure everything runs smoothly. And if all goes well, you will be able to employ your apprentice as a competent and fully qualified employee on completion of the apprenticeship!

What are the benefits of becoming a Host Employer with BIGA?

• We take the time to get to know every apprentice and your business objectives in hiring an apprentice to ensure the right fit
• We are interested in placing apprentices who are appropriate, not how many we can take on and churn out each week
• You can involve an apprentice in your business and train them up for the future as your business grows.  Teach your apprentice all the intricacies of your workplace, increasing their involvement in and understanding of, your business
• Taking on an apprentice has long term financial benefits
• Apprentices are available to hire on a short term or long term basis
• We replace apprentices who are not available to work for any reason
• If your own apprentice goes to College, we can arrange a replacement apprentice
• We get rid of the headache of paperwork
• 1 invoice to pay each week with 7 days to pay
• We look after wet weather except for the first day
• We look after Workcover
• We provide the tools and personal protective equipment

What are my responsibilities and commitments as a Host Employer with BIGA?

• Teach and demonstrate the practical on-the-job skills related to the apprenticeship
• Provide work for the apprentice relative to their apprenticeship
• Ensure the workplace follows all safety standards and ensure the safety of the apprentice at all times
• Work with BIGA to ensure the successful training and development of the apprentice
• Contact BIGA when experiencing problems or concerns in order to provide the opportunity to resolve these quickly and effectively
• Other commitments and responsibilities as outlined in documentation presented prior to taking on an apprentice

What happens if I want to terminate the apprenticeship i.e. if my business experiences quiet periods and financial problems or if I have issues with the apprentice I have taken on board?

We understand that businesses experience busy and quiet periods and that often in quiet periods organisations are put under financial pressure.  

It this happens, please contact BIGA immediately to arrange for an alternative solution or to cease the apprenticeship program without any binding obligations to the apprentice.

Benefits of BIGA:

• BIGA makes placing apprentices easy
• BIGA looks after all of the paperwork and administration
• BIGA offers a broad range of apprenticeships
• BIGA understands people, business, apprenticeships and relationships
• BIGA offers flexibility, options, variety and great support
• BIGA knows Queensland!