Tradies a Step Closer to Small Business Success

GOSFORD, Australia - Feb. 15, 2015 - PRLog -- Trades people on the Central Coast will have access to expert help to become their own boss and make their new business a success thanks to the Federal Government's Apprentice to Business Owner Program (AtoB Program). The training program leads to a nationally recognised qualification in small business management. Business mentoring support is provided to tradespeople who are seeking to, or have recently, established a business in the last two years addressing the national skill shortage.

Executive Director of Central Coast Community College, Jonathan Davis said “it can be a very difficult transition from an apprenticeship to managing a small business, so a program that provides assistance is welcomed by apprentices from a range of industries to include traditional trades such as automotive, engineering, carpentry, electrical, painting, bricklaying, hairdressing, massage therapy and beauty, to name just a few.

“Many tradespeople graduate from their apprenticeship with a recognised trade qualification and most find themselves soon after subcontracting as sole operators and some go on to start their own small businesses employing staff. Usually apprentices with the correct training are excellent with their trade skills but not too overly confident on small business basics such as understanding their legal obligations, having the right insurances, lodging their GST/BAS to meet their tax obligations, and keeping those essential business records,” Mr Davis said.

“This program will provide practical help though personalised training and one-on-one mentoring in developing tradespeople’s business management skills to ensure they evaluate business risks, legal obligations and have a sound business and financial plan. A program such as this would normally cost over $5,000 but eligible participants will only need to pay $200 admin fee thanks to the Australian Government subsidy.

"We will be holding an information session on the AtoB Program on Monday 23 February from 7pm at the College at Ourimbah. I encourage tradespeople who are keen to start a business, or have a new business, to contact the College on 4348 4300 to find out more and to secure a spot as places are strictly limited," Mr Davis said.