We detail the ins and outs of a Group Training Organisation (GTO) and how partnering with one can help your business.

Hiring an apprentice or trainee can be one of the most effective ways to grow a skilled, long-term workforce.

But for many Queensland employers, the process can feel complex, time-consuming and overwhelming.

From recruitment and training contracts to payroll and compliance, managing an apprentice or trainee comes with responsibilities that can distract you from running your business.

How do you reduce risk, save time and set your apprentice up for success without taking on extra admin or stress?

That’s where a Group Training Organisation (GTO) can assist.

What Is a GTO?

A Group Training Organisation (GTO) is a registered business that employs apprentices and trainees and places them with host employers.

The host employer provides on-the-job training and experience, without the legal responsibility of being the direct employer.

The GTO remains the legal employer and allows you to focus on your business and developing the apprentices’ skills.

When you partner with a GTO like Community Solutions, we take care of the following:

  • Admin
  • Recruitment
  • Payroll
  • Compliance
  • Training coordination
  • Ongoing mentoring and support

 

How the Process Works with Community Solutions

We make apprenticeship and traineeship hiring simple. Whether you’re hiring your first apprentice or trainee or scaling your workforce, we will support you every step of the way.

1. We Get to Know Your Business

Your dedicated Field Officer will understand your goals, industry and workplace needs.

2. We Recruit the Right Apprentice or Trainee for You

We source, screen and shortlist quality candidates and support you through the interview and placement process.

3. We Handle the Admin

From payroll and training contracts to site inductions and government compliance, we manage all employment responsibilities.

4. You Host the Apprentice or Trainee

You provide supervision and on-the-job training. We stay involved with regular check-ins, mentoring and performance support.

Why Queensland Employers Choose GTOs

Partnering with a GTO offers significant benefits for small-to-medium businesses across a wide range of industries, including trades, administration, healthcare, retail and more. Key advantages include:

  • Save time: We manage recruitment, interviews, training contracts and administration
  • Reduce risk: We carry the legal responsibility of employment, including insurance, super and leave
  • Improve retention: Supported apprentices are more likely to stay and complete their qualification
  • Remain compliant: We ensure all training, contracts and progress tracking meet state requirements
  • Tax-deductible service fees: Our service fee is 100% tax-deductible, providing a cost-effective workforce solution for your business
  • Tailored matching: We recruit based on your business needs, culture and goals

According to the National Centre for Vocational Education Research , one in three apprentices leave their apprenticeship within the first year.

This is often due to poor job fit, limited support or workplace challenges. The high attrition rate can cost businesses time, money and momentum.

By providing structured support, mentoring and regular check-ins, a GTO helps improve apprentice satisfaction and retention – giving your team greater continuity and long-term value.

Why Queensland Businesses Trust Community Solutions

With more than 30 years’ experience, Community Solutions has helped hundreds of Queensland businesses build skilled, reliable workforces while reducing administrative burdens.

Whether you’re based in Brisbane, the Sunshine Coast, Townsville, Cairns or surrounding regions, our local teams will provide support, advice and workforce solutions tailored to your business needs and goals.

Ready to Grow Your Team?

If you’re considering taking on an apprentice or trainee but want to avoid the admin burden, legal risks or other complexities, Community Solutions can help.

FAQs

Do I Get to Choose My Apprentice or Trainee?

Yes. We supply you with a selection of shortlisted candidates who meet our screening benchmarks. You get to make the final decision on the best candidate for your business and team. Alternatively, you can recommend candidates known to you to us, and we can assess and onboard them through the same process.

Who Provides the Training Contract?

We coordinate the sign-up and manage the compliance with the Apprentice Connect Australia Provider (ACAP).

Do I Have to Manage Payroll and Super?

No. That’s on us if you hire through our GTO model.

Can I Hire an Apprentice or Trainee Directly When They Complete Their Qualification?

Absolutely. Many of our host employers go on to employ apprentices or trainees directly after their placement ends. There are no additional recruitment fees.

Explore our full list of FAQs to learn more.

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