Rheem Australia has awarded a total of $30,000 to 10 deserving recipients as part of the 2023 Rheem Apprentice Plumber Grants.

First established in 2012, the program aims to invest in the future of the plumbing industry by contributing to study and tool costs. With a 57 per cent increase in grant applications this year, what is clear is that many apprentices are feeling the pinch of the rising cost of living.

“Since launching the Rheem Apprentice Plumber Grants, over $360,000 has been awarded to deserving recipients,” says Chris Taylor, Managing Director, at Rheem Australia.

“A common narrative among the 338 applicants this year is how much of an impact a grant will have on securing their future,” says Mr Taylor.

Each Rheem Apprentice Plumber Grant recipient will receive $2,000 to assist with their TAFE/RTO fees and textbooks, $1,000 to help them build their all-important trade toolbox, and a tool tote bag for transport and storage of their tools on the jobsite.

“This important financial investment will help lessen the load on our apprentices as they battle the fastest-growing annual increase in the cost of living since 1990. Depending on their needs, they can choose which new tools to purchase that will ultimately assist them on the job site,” continues Mr Taylor.

Ambitious apprentices are keen to be their own boss

According to the National Centre for Vocational Education Research report the number of active apprentices and trainees increased by 14 per cent between 30 September 2021 and 30 September 2022.

This is reflected in the number of young apprentices who applied for grants. Almost half of applicants were under the age of 21, demonstrating a new wave of plumbers entering the industry. Many recipients, particularly those aged between 18 and 21, displayed a strong entrepreneurial spirit and are eager to own their own plumbing business in the future.

“This year’s submissions represent the high calibre of workers entering the industry. They are committed to learning and supporting their current employer, but what’s really exciting is how many young apprentices want to be their own boss one day and support others to join the industry too,” says Mr Taylor.

Mr Taylor believes the current cohort of apprentice plumbers will go far, noting the high standards of applications submitted this year.

“Overall scores of our top 10 grant recipients increased by five per cent this year. This year’s applicants represent a diverse, passionate pipeline of talent in the plumbing industry; with entries submitted from every state and territory.

“Our independent judging panel had a tough decision this year, with some incredible and inspiring applications,” says Mr Taylor.

This year’s judging panel included Scott Dowsett, President of MPA Victoria; Scott Robinson, plumber and former TAFE teacher of the year; Daemien Davis, National Training Manager, at Rheem Australia; and Aimee Stanton, plumber turned DIY and Tiny House creator.

The judging criteria focuses on the impact the grant would have on the applicant’s study outcomes and future goals, along with their dedication to the industry and commitment to their community.

Rheem is proud to announce this year’s Rheem Apprentice Plumber Grant recipients:

• Ebony Prasad, TAS, DEG Plumbing
• Bernard Courtney, QLD, Old School Plumbing and Gas
• Brandon Perhouse, QLD, Plumplus
• Yana Marks, NSW, Peter Hammond Plumbing
• Rory Withers, NSW, Advantage Plumbing Solutions Pty Ltd
• Jordan Di Benedetto, VIC, Combined Plumbing Pty Ltd
• Jed Gottaas, NSW, Fairy Meadow Plumbing
• Jack Parker, NSW, Coffs Harbour Plumbing Pty Ltd
• Anthony Bennici, NSW, John Nakhoul Plumbing Services Pty Ltd
• Zac Stichel, SA, TAPS.

Due to the high volume and standard of applicants this year, in addition to the 10 recipients, Rheem also granted three apprentice plumbers with a special $500 Rheem Apprentice Plumber Recognition Award.

Rheem is pleased to announce this year’s Rheem Apprentice Plumber Grant Recognition Award recipients:

• Angus Campbell, ACT, Greaney and Sweeney Plumbing Services
• Darcy MacErlean, NT, Ausplumb
• Harrison Fleming, WA, Coast and Country Plumbing and Gas.

“We would like to sincerely thank all our applicants, their employers, TAFE and RTO teachers, and plumbing merchants for helping our recipients work on or submit their applications,” concludes Chris.