What is a Group Training Organisation (GTO)?

What is a Group Training Organisation?

If you've considered employing an apprentice or trainee, you've probably come across the term Group Training Organisation, or GTO. But what does it actually mean, and why do thousands of Australian businesses choose this model every year?

A Group Training Organisation is an organisation that employs apprentices and trainees on behalf of businesses, known as host employers. Rather than taking on the responsibility of employing an apprentice directly, the host employer provides the day-to-day work experience while the GTO manages employment, payroll, administration, compliance and ongoing support.

For many businesses, particularly small and medium enterprises, this creates a simpler and lower-risk way to build a skilled workforce.

How does the GTO model work?

Imagine you're a construction company that needs an apprentice carpenter but you've never employed one before.

Instead of navigating recruitment, employment contracts, payroll, workers compensation, superannuation and training requirements on your own, you partner with a Group Training Organisation.

The GTO recruits the apprentice, becomes their legal employer and places them with your business. You provide meaningful on-the-job experience while the apprentice also completes their formal training with a Registered Training Organisation.

Throughout the apprenticeship, the GTO continues to provide mentoring, wellbeing support, workplace visits and administrative assistance, helping both the apprentice and the host employer achieve successful outcomes.

Why do employers choose a GTO?

Employing apprentices is an investment in the future of your workforce, but it also comes with responsibilities.

A GTO helps reduce that burden by managing many of the administrative and employment obligations while allowing you to focus on developing skills in the workplace.

Some of the key benefits include:

• simplified recruitment

• payroll and employment management

• ongoing mentoring and support

• assistance with performance issues

• flexibility if workforce needs change

• guidance through apprenticeship requirements

This support often leads to stronger retention and better outcomes for both employers and apprentices.

How Corporate Connexions supports employers

At Corporate Connexions, our Group Training Organisation works alongside employers to make employing apprentices and trainees straightforward and supported.

From recruitment and onboarding through to mentoring and completion, our team works closely with both employers and apprentices to create positive, long-term employment outcomes.

Whether you're employing your first apprentice or expanding your workforce, our role is to make the process easier while supporting the success of everyone involved.

👉 Learn more about our Group Training Organisation services.