What is different with the Rheem Apprentice Plumber Grants program in 2026?

This year, we have added five state-based grants to be awarded to a deserving applicant in each of the following state groups: QLD, NSW/ACT, VIC/TAS, SA/NT, and WA. The same judging criteria will apply, and recipients of the state-based awards will be selected from a shortlist of applicants from their state.

 

Why does Rheem run the Rheem Apprentice Plumber Grants program?

The Rheem Apprentice Plumber Grants program was founded with the purpose of reinforcing our commitment to the next generation of Australian plumbers. Rheem is passionate about investing in the skills and training of industry newcomers, and the grants are Rheem’s way of thanking the Australian plumbing industry for its ongoing support.

 

When do entries open and close?

Applications for the 2026 Rheem Apprentice Plumber Grants open at 9:00 am AEST Tuesday 17 February 2026 and close at 11:59 pm AEST Sunday 26 April 2026. Recipients will be announced on Tuesday, 16 June 2026.

 

How do I apply?

To apply online please visit www.rheem.com.au/apprentice. To be eligible, applicants must be enrolled in TAFE/RTO or participating in a school-based apprenticeship and employed by a licensed plumber. Before submitting an application, apprentices must gain their employer’s permission to be contacted to verify employment status if they are shortlisted. Note: If applicants are shortlisted during the judging process, they must provide a valid copy of their student ID to confirm their enrolment in TAFE/RTO or a school-based apprenticeship. Please ensure all sections are fully completed by 11.59 pm AEST Sunday, 26 April 2026 via the online submission form. Please note that all applications must be submitted electronically.

 

What do I need to apply?

For a valid application, people must be currently enrolled and/or studying plumbing at TAFE, a Registered Training Organisation (RTO), or undertaking a school-based apprenticeship. Apprentices of all ages are encouraged to apply. If you are shortlisted, you may be asked to provide a valid copy of your student ID to confirm your enrolment in TAFE/RTO or a school-based apprenticeship. Full terms and conditions are available at www.rheem.com.au/apprentice. For Tips & Tricks, including sample answers to help get you started, check out the Support Pack.

 

How do I log into the application portal?

If you’re applying for the first time, you can register an account, using your first name, last name, email address and password. If you have previously applied for a Rheem Apprentice Plumber Grants and were unsuccessful, you can log into the AwardForce platform with your previous email address and password. For more visit: https://rapg.awardsplatform.com/

 

How do I know if I am eligible to apply for a grant?

If you are an apprentice plumber currently undertaking an apprenticeship in Australia and studying at TAFE, a Registered Training Organisation, or a school-based apprenticeship, then you are eligible to apply for the 2026 Rheem Apprentice Plumber Grants

 

Do I need to be in a certain age group to apply for a grant?

The Rheem Apprentice Plumber Grants are open to apprentice plumbers of any age, whether young or mature age. We have had school-based apprentices right through to an apprentice aged 64 apply!

 

I entered previously. Can I enter again?

If you applied in previous years but didn’t receive a grant, or you received a Recognition Award, you are eligible to apply again in 2026. Apprentices who have previously received a Rheem Apprentice Plumber Grant are not eligible to apply for a 2026 grant.

 

Are there restrictions on what the grant money can be used for?

Each grant includes $2,000 to go toward TAFE/RTO fees. This part of the grant will be transferred into the recipient’s bank account via electronic transfer. While this money can be spent at the recipient’s discretion, Rheem encourages the recipient put it towards TAFE/RTO fees and learning resources. Additionally, a $1,000 tool voucher to a plumbing supplies merchant (as selected by Rheem).

 

Can I change my application answers after I submit?

You may edit your entry after submitting it as many times as necessary, up until the entry deadline. Entries close at 11:59 pm Sunday, 26 April 2026 AEST.

 

I'm not sure if I submitted my application. How can I check?

The status of your application should read “submitted”. If you are still unsure, you can email: rheemgrants@impactagency.com.au

 

Will/can I get feedback on my application answers?

At this stage, we will not be providing feedback. If you are having difficulty with a particular question, you can email rheemgrants@impactagency.com.au for tips.

 

Can I ask my TAFE teacher for help?

Yes, you can ask your TAFE teacher for advice, but the application is based on your experiences and career goals. We’ve also put together some Tips & Tricks, including sample answers, to help get you started. Check out the downloadable kit here. For any other questions or queries email: rheemgrants@impactagency.com.au

 

Is it okay to use AI to help with completing my submission?

We understand that everyone needs a little help drafting responses to questions and whilst the use of generative AI tools like ChatGPT is fast becoming the norm we encourage all applicants limit the use of AI or even better avoid it. We really are interested in you and your personal experiences. It’s not about how well you write but more about what you’ve done and plan to do. Plus, original responses stand out!

 

Who will be on the judging panel?

The judging panel will consist of independent industry experts and a Rheem adjudicator. Their names will be announced alongside the recipients.

 

How does Rheem select the recipients for the Rheem Apprentice Plumber Grants?

The Rheem Apprentice Plumber Grants recognises applicants who embody qualities that make an exceptional plumber. We have an independent judging panel that looks for applicants that are passionate about what they do, can share how they’ve overcome adversity, and demonstrate how they contribute to their local community. The panel reviews every application, taking into account the following: Will the grant make a significant impact on the applicant’s life and career? How has the applicant set goals for their career? Has the applicant shown dedication to their career as a plumber, so far? How does the applicant show a commitment to improving the industry and wider community?

 

When will the recipients of the grants be announced and how will they be notified?

Recipients of the 2026 Rheem Apprentice Plumber Grants will be announced on Tuesday, 16 June 2026. A Rheem representative will contact Successful recipients, and an announcement will be made on the Rheem website at: www.rheem.com.au/apprentice.

 

Where can I get further information?

You can email rheemgrants@impactagency.com.au and a Rheem Apprentice Plumber Grant representative will contact you.