Rheem Australia is encouraging Australian apprentice plumbers and gas fitters to apply for a share of $30,000 in grants available from the 2022 Rheem Apprentice Plumber Grants scheme.

Ten deserving apprentice plumbers from around the country will be rewarded with a grant of $3,000 to support the progression of their study and help launch their plumbing career.

Now in its tenth year, the Rheem Apprentice Plumber Grants program was established to relieve the financial stress felt by many apprentice plumbers, to invest in the skills of future plumbers, and to assist the completion of their courses.

“This year marks a decade since we launched our Rheem Apprentice Plumber Grants program back in 2012, and we’re proud to have awarded more than $300,000 in grants to apprentice plumbers around Australia,” says Chris Taylor, Rheem’s Managing Director, ANZ.

“At Rheem, we’re engaged with, and dedicated to, the plumbing community and our contribution doesn’t stop with products and innovation. One of the most valuable ways we can support the future of our industry is by championing the education and training of Australia’s next generation of plumbers,” adds Taylor.

Previous Grant recipient, Teisha Sethi-Swindail, NSW, says, “Switching careers to take up a plumbing apprenticeship in my mid-20s has caused a strain on my finances, so being awarded a Rheem Apprentice Plumber Grant was such a huge help in making sure my bills are paid and that my toolkit is well stocked,” she says.

“It’s my mission to encourage young people of all genders and from all backgrounds to not just enter the industry but to truly thrive, and I urge all plumbing apprentices to apply for the incredible opportunity to get a helping hand in kickstarting their careers.”

Grant recipients will receive $2,000 to assist with their TAFE/RTO fees and textbooks, and $1,000 to help apprentices build their essential trade toolbox.

“Through our strong relationship with tradespeople around the country, we continue to see that the greatest financial difficulties facing apprentices stem from tuition and tool costs,” Mr Taylor adds.

“Rheem’s success can be largely attributed to the ongoing support we have received from the plumbing community over the last 80 years. The grant scheme allows us to say thank you by supporting and inspiring the next generation of plumbers through targeted financial assistance where they need it the most. It also opens doors to further study, such as continuing the optional fourth year where apprentices can earn their tradesman’s licence and turn their dreams of operating their own business into a reality,” he says

“The Rheem Apprentice Plumbers Grants were created to help aspiring plumbers achieve their goals. Since the program’s launch, Rheem has awarded 200 Grants to apprentice plumbers. Many of our applicants have been on diverse paths that have led them to where they are today, but they all share two things; the ambition to join the next generation of plumbers, and the drive to see it through.”

A panel of independent industry experts and a Rheem adjudicator will judge the 2022 Rheem Apprentice Plumber Grants.

“I encourage every apprentice plumber to apply for a 2022 Rheem Apprentice Plumber Grant. We’ve updated the application process this year, making it easier to apply than ever before. Apprentices have nothing to lose and everything to gain,” concludes Taylor.

Applications for the 2022 Rheem Apprentice Plumber Grants program are open now, and close at 11:59pm on Friday 8 April 2022. Successful grant recipients will be announced in May 2022.

Applicants must submit the completed form via the website at www.rheem.com.au/apprentice.

Any questions regarding the application process should be emailed to rheemgrants@impactagency.com.au.

Recipients of previous Rheem Apprentice Plumber Grants are not eligible to enter. Please see the Rheem website for full terms and conditions www.rheem.com.au/apprentice.