New national research shows the first year of an apprenticeship sets the foundation for traineeship success.
Apprenticeship Support Australia (ASA) data shows apprentices and trainees are most likely to disengage during their first 12 months, it remains the point of greatest attrition risk.
Drawing on the perspectives of more than 12,000 apprentices and trainees nationwide, ASA released a report this week entitled the National First Year Experience Report.
It found most apprentices and trainees in Australia want to stay in their apprenticeship and most employers are doing a good job at retaining them.
However, consistency is key as wellbeing challenges and fluctuating workplace support could determine whether they complete their training.
With apprenticeship and traineeship commencements continuing to decline, it’s never been more important to address factors impacting attrition.
The report found 76% of current apprentices hadn’t even considered leaving.
Apprentices experiencing sadness, anxiety or worry were 65% more likely to consider leaving.
Data shows cost-of-living pressures are hitting apprentices hard with 55% reporting hardship.
This figure increased to 58% among apprentices living with disability and 60% among First Nations trainees.
The report found career advice at school is inconsistent - only 49% of respondents said they received good information about all career pathway options.
Apprentices in smaller workplaces often benefit from closer supervision, but retention risk rises when employers lack the time, systems or mentoring capacity to identify and address issues early.
Data shows supportive workplaces are one of the strongest protections against drop-out.
Apprentices who felt cared for and supported at work were 28% less likely to consider leaving.
ASA CEO, Lee Xavier, said this report challenges the idea that apprentices drop out because they lack commitment.
He said most apprentices and trainees want to stay, learn and build a career.
“The challenge is making sure the right support is wrapped around them in that critical first year, so that intention turns into completion,” Xavier said.
“This research provides a clear evidence base for where support should be targeted.”
Xavier said employers play a critical role in whether an apprentice stays and succeeds.
“The report shows that small, practical actions, such as regular check-ins, clear expectations, structured mentoring and a workplace where apprentices feel comfortable raising concerns, can make a real difference,” he said.