The new information regarding Federal Incentives has been well circulated since they first became public in July 2022.
However, recent conversations with some employers revealed there is still some potential confusion about the impact of Early Completions for one-year Traineeships.
Under the new guidelines, which can be found via the link below, the second Hiring Incentive payment is only payable six months after the first Effect Date payment (See Part D, Section 2.4 Claiming Payments and Section 2.5b Early Completions).
https://www.dewr.gov.au/download/13995/australian-apprenticeships-incentive-system-guidelines/31857/australian-apprenticeships-incentive-system-guildeines/pdf/en
This means that if a Traineeship completes prior to the second effective date (which will normally be at the one year point from the Traineeship Commencement date), the second Hiring Incentive payment (typically $1750 for full-time Trainees) will not be issued.
This may not be a factor for many employers and their Trainees who will use the full term of their Traineeship (one or two years for full time Trainees).
However, we have advised our employers to keep this in mind when working with the Trainee if an early completion is being considered that will occur prior to the one year point being reached.
Importantly, completing even a small time (e.g. 1 day) prior to the second Effect date will negate the Second Payment.
We have also encouraged our employers to reach out to their AASN representative with any questions or concerns, as we know you are the single best resource for them.