DAWS is a government funded program aimed at supporting people with a broad range of disabilities and who may require special assistance or have special needs to carry out an apprenticeship.

To qualify for the DAWS program, you must have a recognised disability that is seen to have an impact on work performance, backed by expert medical opinion from your regular GP or specialists, and you must be at least 15 years of age.

The assistance provided by DAWS includes working with employees and supplying workplace modification funding, tutorial support services, mentoring and interpreting support that are available throughout the duration of the apprenticeship.

The program also caters for employers whose apprenticed staff have acquired a permanent or temporary disability from an unexpected accident or similar; the employer is able to apply for additional assistance through DAWS.

DAWS has helped apprentices and employers for over 15 years, in all areas, including Electrical, Automotive, Building, Roof Tiling, Farming, Jewellery and other specialised trades. It is an incentive to all employers to create an opportunity for a person with a disability to obtain a recognised qualification.

Naomi Whitefield
Youth@bility Reporter

For more information on the DAWS program, contact:

The New Apprenticeships Centre on 1800 639 629.