RHEEM AUSTRALIA ANNOUNCES $75,000 IN APPRENTICE PLUMBER GRANTS FOR 2026 PROGRAM

Record number of grants available as new research highlights growing cost pressures facing apprentice plumbers.

Sydney, Australia, 17 February 2026 – Rheem Australia is expanding its investment in the next generation of plumbers, announcing 25 Rheem Apprentice Plumber Grants will be available in 2026 – the highest number offered in the program’s history.

Since 2012, Rheem, a leading manufacturer of water heaters, has played a key role in supporting Australian apprentices. Through the grants program, the organisation recognises and acknowledges apprentices who demonstrate a high level of dedication, passion, and commitment to the industry.

This year, Rheem will award an additional five grants, known as the State Excellence Awards. These recipients will be selected from a shortlist of top applicants from their state group.*

Each of the 25 deserving recipients will receive a grant valued at $3,000, including $2,000 to support TAFE or RTO fees, and a $1,000 tool voucher to help build an essential trade toolkit.

“Rheem has been manufacturing in Australia for almost 90 years, and the strength of our industry depends on supporting the people who will carry it forward,” said John Collignon, Marketing Director of Rheem Australia.

“Every year we meet apprentices who are deeply committed to the trade but are juggling real financial pressures alongside their training. By expanding the program in 2026, we’re recognising outstanding young plumbers and helping to remove some of the barriers they face as they work towards becoming fully qualified.”

New research highlights financial pressure on apprentice plumbers

Ahead of the 2026 program launch, Rheem surveyed apprentice plumbers across Australia to better understand what’s motivating them to enter the trade, and what challenges they face early in their careers.

The research^ shows a generation that is passionate about hands-on work and optimistic about the future of plumbing, but are experiencing financial strain. Nearly two thirds of respondents (61 per cent) said paying for tools and training is one of their biggest challenges, with more than one quarter spending over $2,000 per year on tools alone.

“These survey findings reinforce why programs like the Rheem Apprentice Plumber Grants matter. Supporting apprentices through the early years of their career helps build confidence, capability and a stronger pipeline of skilled plumbers for communities across Australia,” said Mr Collignon.

Young plumbers confident about the sector’s future

While many industries are grappling with concerns about artificial intelligence and job security, apprentice plumbers remain confident about the future of their trade.

More than half of those surveyed (52 per cent) believe AI will improve plumbing diagnostics and problem-solving, while 48 per cent expect emerging technologies to reduce repetitive administrative tasks, allowing more time on the tools.

“Apprentices clearly aren’t concerned about technology replacing them, they see it as a resource that can make their work better. Smarter insights and less admin mean more time focusing on quality outcomes for customers,” said Mr Collignon.

This reflects the strong sense of purpose driving young plumbers into the industry, with hands-on work (76 per cent) and problem-solving (51 per cent) ranked among the top motivations for choosing the trade.

“At Rheem, we’re focused on supporting apprentices who are passionate about the trade, so the industry remains strong, practical and future‑ready. Our program is open to Australians enrolled in TAFE/RTO or are participating in a school-based apprenticeship and are employed by a licensed plumber. We encourage all apprentices, from school leavers to mature age career switchers to apply,” said Mr Collignon.

Applications for the 2026 Rheem Apprentice Plumber Grants are now open and can be submitted via www.rheem.com.au/apprentice.

Key details:

• Applications open: Tuesday 17 February 2026 (9:00am AEDT)
• Applications close: 11:59pm AEST, Sunday 26 April
• Apply online: www.rheem.com.au/apprentice
• What recipients receive: $3,000 total – $2,000 for TAFE/RTO fees and $1,000 for essential tools.
• What’s new in 2026: Five State Excellence Awards recognising apprentices making a positive impact in their state.
• Successful applicants announced: Tuesday 16 June 2026.