Rheem Australia is encouraging Australian apprentice plumbers and gas fitters to apply for a share of $30,000 in grants available from the 2023 Rheem Apprentice Plumber Grants program.

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

The Rheem Apprentice Plumber Grants program was established to invest in the future of the plumbing industry. Through helping to relieve the financial stress felt by many apprentice plumbers, the program assists plumbers in completing their study.

“Since first launching the program over a decade ago, we’re proud to have awarded more than $330,000 to apprentice plumbers around Australia,” says Chris Taylor, Managing Director ANZ, at Rheem Australia.

“Rheem is dedicated to the Australian 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.

Last year’s Grant recipient, Michael Macdonald, VIC believes getting into the plumbing trade was one of the best things he’s ever done.

“The pandemic had a huge impact on my ability to work. As someone who was self-employed and struggling financially, I decided to jump into the deep end and started an apprenticeship.

“I was so happy to be chosen for a Rheem Apprentice Plumber Grant. It’s been really helpful in dealing with the cost of living, and I’ve been able to put it towards course fees and buying the tools that I need to do my job. It was a good surprise,” says Mr Macdonald.

“The plumbing community has continually supported Rheem for the past 80 plus years, which has been a huge driver of our success. The Rheem Apprentice Plumber Grant scheme allows us to express our appreciation for the support we have received from our community through targeted financial assistance where they need it the most,” Taylor says.

Through discussions with tradespeople around Australia, Mr Taylor believes the biggest financial difficulties facing apprentices stem from tuition and tool costs. For this reason, Grant recipients receive $2,000 to assist with their TAFE/RTO fees and textbooks, and $1,000 to help build their essential trade toolbox.

The Grant also opens doors to further studies. With a contribution to their training fees, apprentices can complete the optional fourth year of study where they can earn their tradesman’s license, and turn their dreams of operating their own business into a reality.

“Many of the apprentice plumbers we come across each year have been on diverse paths that have led them to where they are today. However, they all share two things: the ambition to join the next generation of plumbers, and the drive to see it through,” Taylor says