New to the trade

Start your automotive apprenticeship or traineeship

Mechanist connects job-ready learners with employers across SA, QLD and NSW. We handle the training, you build the career.

What is a trade apprenticeship?

A trade apprenticeship combines paid employment with nationally recognised training. You work full-time for an employer, earn a wage, and Mechanist delivers your training and assessment — on the job, at your workplace.

At the end of your apprenticeship (typically 3–4 years), you hold a Certificate III trade qualification that is recognised across Australia. A traineeship follows the same model at Certificate II or III level, usually over 12–24 months.

You don't need to have finished Year 12 or hold any prior qualifications to start. If you've got the drive, we'll help you find a path forward.

At a glance

Duration
Apprenticeship: 3–4 years  |  Traineeship: 12–24 months
Pay
Paid employment from day one — award wages apply
Qualification
Certificate II or III — nationally recognised
Location
Training at your workplace — SA, QLD and NSW

How it works

Five steps from enquiry to qualified tradesperson.

1

Enquire

Tell us your name, contact and the course you're interested in

2

Eligibility check

We confirm funding eligibility and employer/workplace requirements

3

Training contract

You, your employer and Mechanist sign the registered training contract

4

Training begins

Your trainer visits the workplace, learning is done on the job

5

Qualified

You complete, receive your certificate and advance your career

Courses for apprentices and trainees

All qualifications are delivered at your workplace.

Apprenticeship — 3–4 years

Light Vehicle Mechanical Technology

AUR30620 — Certificate III. The core automotive trade qualification covering servicing, diagnosis and repair of passenger and light commercial vehicles.

Govt funded SA · QLD · NSW Enquire →
Apprenticeship — 3–4 years

Heavy Commercial Vehicle Mechanical Technology

AUR31120 — Certificate III. Trucks, buses and heavy equipment. Strong demand across logistics, mining and transport sectors.

Govt funded SA · QLD · NSW Enquire →
Apprenticeship — 3–4 years

Automotive Electrical Technology

AUR30320 — Certificate III. Electrical systems, diagnostics and EV-adjacent skills across light and heavy vehicles.

Govt funded SA · QLD · NSW Enquire →
Traineeship — 12–24 months

Automotive Servicing Technology

AUR20520 — Certificate II. Fast-track entry into the trade. Servicing, fluid changes, tyre rotations and basic diagnostics.

Govt funded SA · QLD · NSW Enquire →
Traineeship — 12–24 months

Motorcycle Mechanical Technology

AUR30820 — Certificate III. Servicing and repair of motorcycles, scooters and recreational vehicles.

Govt funded SA · QLD Enquire →
Traineeship — 12–24 months

Agricultural Mechanical Technology

AUR30420 — Certificate III. Farm equipment, tractors and agricultural machinery. Strong regional demand.

Govt funded SA · QLD Enquire →

Government-funded training

Apprenticeship and traineeship training is subsidised by state governments in SA, QLD and NSW. In many cases the student co-contribution fee is low or zero for eligible candidates under 25. Mechanist will confirm your exact funding position before you commit.

Common questions

Do I need to have a job lined up first?
You need an employer to sign a training contract before the apprenticeship or traineeship can be formally registered. However, Mechanist can point you toward employers who are actively seeking apprentices. Enquire with us first — we'll help work it out.
Is there a minimum age?
Generally 15 or 16, but it depends on the state and whether you're still at school. If you're a school student in Years 10–12, see our School Students pathway — there are school-based apprenticeship and traineeship (SAT/SBAT) options designed for you.
How much will training cost me?
State governments subsidise apprenticeship and traineeship training. Your out-of-pocket student contribution depends on your state, your age, and whether you hold a concession card. In QLD, eligible students under 25 may pay nothing. We'll give you an exact figure before you enrol — no surprises.
Do I have to go to a TAFE or training centre?
No. Mechanist delivers entirely at your workplace. Your Mechanist trainer visits you on-site, works through your training plan with you, and assesses your skills in the real work environment. There are no block release weeks away from your job.
What if I already have some experience in the trade?
Existing tradespeople with several years of experience may qualify for an accelerated pathway through Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL). See our Experienced Workers pathway for details. If you have some experience but not enough for full RPL, a traineeship with accelerated completion may be the right fit.

Ready to start?

Send us your details and the course you're interested in. Our team will contact you within one business day to confirm eligibility, discuss funding options, and walk you through next steps.

No obligation. No cost. Just a conversation.

VocTrain Pty Ltd trading as Mechanist | RTO ID: 6194 | ABN: 68 085 539 322
All enrolments are subject to eligibility assessment. Training fees are subject to government funding confirmation.