Changes to Mana in Mahi and Apprenticeship Boost

Mana in Mahi changing back to one year

Mana in Mahi matches employers with people who are keen to start a career and need extra support. The programme provides funding, coaching and mentoring so employers can employ someone long-term and help them get an industry training qualification.

From 5 August 2022 Mana in Mahi will be available for one year. Previously it was available for 2 years.

The change means the number of Mana in Mahi placements can increase from 1,300 to 1,600 in the next 2 years. This is an increase of 300 placements.

Employers who were getting Mana in Mahi before 5 August 2022 will continue to get their payments based on the terms of their current contract.

Apprenticeship Boost extension and payment rate

Apprenticeship Boost is a wage subsidy paid to employers to keep and take on new apprentices. It's paid directly to employers and is available for eligible apprentices within their first 2 years (24 months) of learning.

The programme has been extended until December 2023. It was due to end in August 2022.

The payment rate for first-year apprentices has also changed. This is now $500 a month (GST exclusive), paid to employers, for apprentices in their first or second year of training. This matches the second-year apprentice rate, which does not change.