Traineeships for mature age applicants. Why hiring older trainees can work for your business
In the world of traineeships, younger school leavers often come to mind first, but they’re not the only option. Did you know that trainees can be any age? Mature age applicants bring a whole different level of experience, reliability, and motivation that can be a real asset to your business.
Whether someone is changing careers, returning to work after a break, or simply looking to up skill later in life, a traineeship can offer the right mix of formal learning and practical experience and for you, the employer, it opens the door to hiring someone who’s already got a wealth of life and work experience behind them.
Discover more about our banking and financial services traineeships here.
Why consider hiring an older trainee?
1. They bring real world experience
Mature age trainees often come with years of prior work or life experience. They’re likely to understand the dynamics of a professional environment, know how to communicate effectively, and take initiative without needing constant supervision.
2. They’re motivated and focused
Older trainees are often in a more stable phase of life and are highly motivated to succeed. Many have made a deliberate decision to retrain, which means they’re likely to be committed, eager to learn, and looking to make a lasting contribution to your team.
3. They strengthen team culture
Mature trainees can offer a steadying presence in the workplace. Their confidence and ability to stay calm under pressure can help support your younger staff. They’re also often happy to share their knowledge and act as informal mentors to other team members.
4. They offer long-term value
While it’s common to assume that younger trainees will stay longer, many mature-age employees are looking for stable, meaningful work and are keen to find a place where they can contribute over the long term. Hiring them through a traineeship gives them the chance to build loyalty from day one.
5. They’re adaptable
Just because someone has been in the workforce longer doesn’t mean they’re stuck in their ways. Many mature trainees are eager to take on new challenges, learn new systems, and adapt to your business’s way of doing things.
What support is available for traineeships?
Traineeships for mature age applicants are supported under the same government programs as standard traineeships in NSW. That means you may still be eligible for:
- Payroll tax rebates for eligible new entrant trainees
- Fee-free training under the Smart and Skilled program
- Assistance with onboarding and paperwork via Registered Training Organisations (RTOs) or Group Training Organisations (GTOs)
If you’re looking for someone who brings dependability, life experience, and a genuine interest in learning something new, a mature age trainee could be the perfect fit. It’s not just about giving someone a chance, it’s about making a smart decision for your business by welcoming someone who’s ready to hit the ground running, learn fast, and contribute from day one.
Ready to explore your options? Reach out to our team at ISM to learn more about how traineeships can work for your business, no matter who you’re hiring. Contact us here.
You can find out more about trainee eligibility here https://www.nsw.gov.au/sites/default/files/2022-03/student-eligibility-policy.pdf