Frequently asked questions

Who can apply?

Mackay Regional Council is an equal employment opportunity employer who values diversity. We encourage applications from all backgrounds including women, mature age applicants, school-leavers and members of indigenous and other minority groups.

I'm a mature aged person; do you accept applications from a mature person?

Yes, we encourage mature age applicants to apply as we employ on a merit-based recruitment process.

I'm under 18 years of age; do you accept applications from someone under 18 years of age?

Yes, we accept applications from applicants under the age of 18 for certain positions, however, consent from your parent or guardian must be obtained prior to application.

If you are under the age of 18 and successful in obtaining an apprenticeship or traineeship, your parent or guardian will be required to attend the medical process and sign relevant documentation upon commencement.

I'm currently completing an apprenticeship; do you accept applications from current apprentices?

The recruitment process is based upon merit, and we will consider all applications submitted for the role equally.

I have already completed a Qualification/Certificate can I still apply?

Yes, as long as your certificate is not in the same field you are applying for.  For example: if you have a Certificate III in Business and would like to apply for the Certificate III Live Production Traineeship then you certainly can.  However, if you have a Certificate III in Business and wanted to apply for a Business Traineeship you would not be eligible.   You can also apply if you have a partial certificate.

What will my salary be?

Your salary will be in accordance with Order – Apprentices’ and Trainees’ Wages and Conditions (excluding certain Queensland Government Entities) 2003 or the Training Wage Award – State 2012.

What will my hours be?

Your weekly ordinary hours of work can be 36.25 hours or 38 hours per week in accordance with the current Mackay Regional Council Certified Agreement. These hours will be worked during council’s normal office hours of 6.00am to 6.00pm on Monday to Friday. Certain apprenticeships or traineeships will require you to work nights and weekends and may have varying hours to that stated above.

What support will I receive?

Mackay Regional Council’s Apprentice and Trainee program provides our apprentices and trainees with support from supervisors and our Organisational Development team. This includes regular reviews to check on how your training is progressing, and identifying any additional support needed. We ensure that you are receiving all the experience and mentoring you need on the job to become confident and competent in your work.

How do I apply?

Click on the link for the position you are interested, follow the instructions to complete your application and submit your resume and cover letter.

Can I apply for more than one position?

Yes, you can apply for more than one position, however please ensure you individualise your documentation to reflect the position you are applying for.

I am having difficulty logging onto the vacancy site?

If you are having difficulties logging onto the vacancy site, please contact our Recruitment team on 1300 622 529 for assistance.

How long is the traineeship or apprenticeship?

The length of apprenticeships and traineeships varies depending on the type of position and qualification you are successful in. Traineeships are generally 12 to 24 months and apprenticeships are generally 36 to 48 months.

When will I hear about my application?

Shortlisted applicants will be contacted in November by phone and email to organise interviews. Remember to check your junk or spam folders for emails. The full apprentice and trainee recruitment process can take two to three months to be completed. Applicants who are not successful in being shortlisted will be contacted by email to advise their application has been unsuccessful.

When will I start?

Successful applicants will start late January in the year following your application.

For further information regarding the recruitment process and tips for applying for a position, please visit our careers page.