Information About GTASA

Group Training Australia (SA) (GTA SA) is a network of independent not for profit organisations located in metropolitan Adelaide and all major population centres throughout the state. These organisations operate on either an industry or regional basis and collectively they provide employment for approximately 4,000 apprentices and trainees.

As at 30th June 2009, Group Training Organisations (GTOs) held 11.2% market share of employment of apprentices and trainees in SA making them one of the largest employers of apprentices and trainees in the state.

Group Training apprentices and trainees are employed by Group Training Organisations through the usual process of interviews and assessment. Applications can be made at any time of the year.

Group Training Organisations keep a list of employers - usually small to medium sized businesses - who want to hire apprentices and trainees and are willing to help train them. Group Training Organisations also actively canvass industry for additional training placements for apprentices and trainees
These businesses are referred to as Host Employers or a Host Business. Apprentices or trainees are placed/leased to a Host Businesses for an agreed period of time.

The Group Training Organisation handles the paperwork and records for its apprentices and trainees and usually manages the payroll function.

All apprenticeships and traineeships include an element of training conducted at a Registered Training Organisation or sometimes on the job. The Group Training Organisation arranges for apprentices and trainees to attend formal training (commonly referred to as trade school by apprentices), where required.

Apprentices and trainees spend the remainder of their time working with the host business, where they receive on-the-job training matched to the accredited qualification.

Group Training Organisations, through their field officers, provide extensive support to their apprentices and trainees. This includes regular workplace visits to monitor the on-the-job training being provided and to assist with any problems which may occur in the workplace.

Group Training Organisations provide a variety of support services to apprentices and trainees during their employment. They also help arrange off-the-job courses and check on progress with training providers.

On the successful completion of an apprenticeship or traineeship, a certificate of competency will be received, allowing the apprentice or trainee to be employed as a fully qualified worker in their chosen career.