# Top 100 Apprenticeship Employers: Setting the National Benchmark
In May 2026, SkillsOne will launch the Top 100 Apprenticeship Employers — Australia's first transparent, data-driven benchmark for organisations demonstrating excellence in apprenticeship and traineeship development.
## A Benchmark, Not an Award
The Top 100 is fundamentally different from traditional awards programs. We're not competing with the Australian Training Awards or other recognition schemes. Instead, we're creating a national benchmark that provides:
- **Transparent Methodology**: Clear, published criteria based on verifiable data
- **Objective Measurement**: Data sourced from the National Centre for Vocational Education Research (NCVER)
- **Industry Credibility**: A trusted reference point for workforce development excellence
## Simple, Measurable Criteria
For our inaugural year, we're keeping it straightforward. The Top 100 ranking is based on just two measures:
1. Number of Apprentices Onboarded (60% weighting) — New apprenticeships commenced in the last 12 months 2. Number of Apprenticeships Successfully Completed (40% weighting) — Completions in the last 12 months
This simple model ensures clarity and fairness while recognising both volume and completion success.
## Accreditation and Recognition
Organisations featured in the Top 100 receive:
- **Top 100 Accredited Employer** status
- National media recognition during National Skills Week
- Access to the Top 100 employer mark for recruitment and branding
- Inclusion in the published national benchmark report
## Why It Matters
The Top 100 creates a transparent standard for apprenticeship excellence. It helps:
- **Job Seekers**: Identify employers genuinely committed to apprentice development
- **Industry**: Understand best practices and benchmark performance
- **Government**: Track workforce development trends with credible data
## Get Involved
Nominations for the inaugural Top 100 Apprenticeship Employers are now open. If your organisation is committed to building Australia's skilled workforce, we want to hear from you.
Nominate your organisation today and be part of setting the national benchmark.