WHO QUALIFIED FOR WATER INDUSTRY FUNDING?

Navigating vocational training funding in Queensland can be complex, especially with recent changes to government-supported programs. If you’re considering a career in the water industry—or looking to advance your current role—understanding the difference between Career Start and Career Boost is essential.

What Are Career Start and Career Boost?

As of July 2025, the Queensland Government streamlined several previous funding programs into two key initiatives.

• Career Start: For job seekers and entry-level workers.
• Career Boost: For those already employed and seeking to upskill or move into higher-level roles.

Both programs offer subsidised training through approved providers, but they target different stages of career development.

Career Start: Launching Your Career

Career Start supports Queenslanders who are starting out or transitioning into skilled employment. It offers access up to 2 funded training places through one of the following options:

• a qualification in a Certificate III under the general training pathway and an apprenticeship or traineeship.
  • If the apprenticeship or traineeship is completed first, you are not eligible to access a general training pathway qualification under Career Start.

OR

• two apprenticeships and traineeships in either a Certificate II or III (school-based apprenticeships and traineeships are included in this total)

Eligibility Criteria:

• Aged 15 or older, no longer in school
• Permanently reside in Queensland
• Be an Australian/NZ citizen, permanent resident, or eligible temporary visa holder
• No Certificate III or higher completed in the past 10 years (school qualifications excluded)
• Not currently enrolled in another qualification

Career Boost: Advancing Your Career

Career Boost is for workers ready to take the next step. Under Career Boost, you may access either:

• One funded training place in either a Certificate IV, Diploma or Advanced Diploma qualification under the general training pathway

OR

• A higher-level apprenticeship or traineeship in Certificate IV or above.
• In addition, under Career Boost, you may access up to 2 funded skill sets in priority industries or sectors.

If you have already accessed 2 apprenticeships or traineeships through a school-based apprenticeship or traineeship or Career Start within the last 10 years, you are not eligible to undertake an apprenticeship or traineeship under Career Boost.

You cannot do 2 general training pathway qualifications under Career Boost.

Eligibility Criteria:

• Aged 15 or older, no longer in school
• Permanently reside in Queensland
• Be an Australian/NZ citizen, permanent resident, or eligible temporary visa holder
• No Certificate III or higher completed in the past 10 years (school qualifications excluded)
• Not currently enrolled in another qualification

Water Industry Funding: Where Do You Fit?

The water industry is a priority sector under both Career Start and Career Boost. Here’s how funding applies:

Entry-Level Roles (Career Start)

• Certificate III in Water Industry Operations (NWP30222) is funded under Career Start.
• Apprenticeships and traineeships are available for new entrants.
• Eligible participants may receive up to $7,820 in subsidies.
• Additional support is available for under 25s, with free apprenticeships for those who meet age and contract criteria.
• Certificate II in Water Operations may also be funded if delivered via a traineeship.

Upskilling (Career Boost)

• Certificate IV in Water Industry Operations (NWP40120) is funded under Career Boost.
• Diploma-level qualifications relevant to the water industry may also be eligible.
• Subsidies range from $5,691 to $6,911, depending on concession status.
• Participants must not already hold a Certificate IV or higher qualification.

How to Apply

1. Check your eligibility using the Queensland Government’s eligibility checker.
2. Choose a Skills Assure Supplier via the Queensland Skills Gateway.
3. Contact your Apprenticeship Network Provider or training provider for quotes and enrolment support.

Simmonds & Bristow are a Registered Training Organisation (RTO) and approved Skills Assure Supplier. We can help you get started on your next step of training.