Trade Support Loans (TSLs) are available to eligible apprentices to assist with everyday costs while completing your apprenticeship. You can receive up to $21,779 over the life of the apprenticeship (lifetime limit in 2021-22). The year of your apprenticeship determines the amount you may receive. There is no waiting period to claim.
You may be eligible if:
- you are studying a Certificate III or IV qualification that leads to an occupation listed on the Trade Support Loans Priority List; or
- you are studying a Certificate II, III or IV agricultural qualification specified on the Trade Support Loans Priority List; or
- you are studying a Certificate II, III or IV horticulture qualification specified on the Trade Support Loans Priority List in rural or regional Australia – the Trade Support Loan Rules specify a list of postcodes for rural or regional areas of Australia; and
- you are an Australian citizen or permanent resident.
When you access a TSL you need to provide your Tax File Number (TFN) as repayments of your loan are made through the Australian tax system. It’s best to have your TFN before you apply for a TSL to ensure you can access the loan.
TSLs are paid in instalments to your nominated bank account. You can opt in and out of the TSL over the life of your apprenticeship. You cannot claim retrospective TSL payments.
TSLs are interest free but indexed annually in line with the consumer price index. TSL is repaid through the tax system, after you have reached the minimum repayment threshold ($47,014 for 2021-22). Repayments are calculated as a percentage of your income. To find out the amount you need to pay back, read about thresholds and rates. When you successfully complete your apprenticeship you will receive a 20% discount on the amount you need to repay.
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