The Apprenticeship Support Program, funded by the Victorian Government, helps apprentices navigate the apprenticeship system.

The program engages Apprenticeship Support Officers (ASOs) across Victoria to offer free, confidential support and advice. 

If you're undertaking an apprenticeship with Victoria University Polytechnic, you can get help with challenges during your apprenticeship – in the workplace, training or your personal life.

Available assistance

ASOs can refer you to organisations that can help you with issues you may be having, including:

  • Victorian Regulations and Qualifications Authority (VRQA)
  • Centrelink
  • Fair Work Ombudsman
  • WorkSafe.

You can also get access to learner support, employment services, and an array of local health services providing counselling services, drug and alcohol counselling and mental health support.

Apprentice support at Sunshine Campus

Victoria University Polytechnic has a dedicated Apprenticeship Support Officer based at Sunshine Campus who travels to all campuses regularly to chat to apprentices and answer questions they may have confidentially.

They can help with issues such as:

  • employers not allowing apprentices to attend off-the-job training
  • being unsupervised whilst working onsite and other OHS concerns
  • wage and superannuation queries
  • bullying and discrimination or harassment within the workplace
  • learning challenges with schooling
  • inability to pay school fees and other financial issues
  • falling behind with studies and extension requests
  • being placed on ‘downtime’ for long periods or being ‘out of trade' (unemployed).

“As an ASO, I am here to listen and support and assist all apprentices with any issue or challenge they may be experiencing. I would encourage any apprentice, whether the issue be minor or major, to reach out as soon as possible as we’re here to help you.” – Kylie Bell, VU Polytechnic’s ASO

Contact VU Polytechnic's support

Kylie Bell 
Email: kylie.bell@vu.edu.au
Phone: 0466 935 305

Or contact the Apprenticeship Support Program:
Email: apprenticeship.support@education.vic.gov.au
Phone: 1300 311 820

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