Rheem Australia is encouraging Australian apprentice plumbers and gas fitters to apply for a share of the $30,000 in grants available from the 2021 Rheem Apprentice Plumber Grants scheme.

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

Now in its ninth year, the Rheem Apprentice Plumber Grants program was established to alleviate the financial strain felt by many apprentice plumbers, and to invest in the skills of future plumbers and provide assistance so that they can complete their courses.

“Since launching the Rheem Apprentice Plumber Grants program in 2012, we’ve awarded $270,000 in grants to apprentice plumbers around Australia,” says Chief Operating Officer at Rheem, Chris Taylor.

Previous Grant recipient, Patrick Lorraine, WA, says, “I’m so grateful for the opportunity that the Rheem Apprentice Plumber Grant has given me. It has allowed me to expand my tool collection and plumbing knowledge, helping me develop into a more independent and capable pluming apprentice.

“I’d strongly encourage all plumbing apprentices to apply to get a head start for their careers.”

“2021 presents new opportunities and challenges for plumbers and apprentices, with many members of our industry finding unique ways of working and growing as professionals. We at Rheem are engaged with, and committed to, the plumbing community and our involvement 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.

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

“Through its strong relationship with tradies, Rheem continues to see that the greatest financial hardships facing apprentices comes from tuition and tool costs,” he says.

Rheem’s success has been achieved through 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 direct assistance to where they need it the most. It opens doors to further study, such as continuing the optional fourth year where apprentices can earn their tradesman’s licence and dream of one day operating their own business,” he says.

“The Rheem Apprentice Plumbers Grants are here to help aspiring plumbers achieve their goals. Since the program’s inception, Rheem has awarded 190 Grants to apprentice plumbers. Many of our applicants have had diverse paths that have led them to where they are today, but they all share two things; the ambition to become the next generation of plumbers, and the drive to make that a reality.”

A panel of independent industry experts and a Rheem adjudicator will judge the 2021 Rheem Apprentice Plumber Grants.

“I urge every apprentice plumber to apply for a 2021 Rheem Apprentice Plumber Grant. We’ve streamlined the application process this year to make it easier to apply than ever before. Apprentices have nothing to lose and everything to gain,” concludes Taylor.

Applications for the 2021 Rheem Apprentice Plumber Grants program open on Monday 1 March 2021 and close at 11:59pm on Friday 30 April 2021. Successful grant recipients will be announced on Tuesday 8 June 2021.

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.