Rheem Australia has awarded 10 apprentice plumbers with a total of $30,000 as part of the 2018 Rheem Apprentice Plumber Grants.

Rheem hopes the grants will entice more apprenticeships and help those plumbing apprentices that are doing it tough. Research shows that apprentices are struggling with the cost of living and are increasingly in debt.

In a national survey of apprentices conducted by AMWU (2015), it revealed more than half of apprentices are struggling to pay their bills and have less than one month’s pay in savings.

Rheem Australia launched its Rheem Apprentice Plumber Grants in 2012 and since then has awarded $214,500 in grants.

The 2018 recipients each receive $2,000 to go towards their TAFE/RTO fees and/or text books, a $1,000 tool voucher, plus a tool tote bag.

“The plumbing industry has provided immense support to Rheem over more than 80 years and these grants are designed as a thank you and to help foster the next generation of plumbers,” Rheem chief operating officer Chris Taylor says.

“With data showing apprenticeships have declined in Australia, we are happy to play a small role in helping encourage those who might be struggling financially or need a morale boost to continue with their studies.”