The Australian Government has launched the Fee-Free TAFE campaign to raise awareness of the fee-free courses being rolled out across the nation, in partnership with states and territories, thanks to a $414 million investment by the Commonwealth.
Following the availability of Fee-Free TAFE places in 2023, a further 300,000 places will be delivered by states and territories over the calendar years 2024 to 2026.
Fee-Free TAFE prioritises training for students that traditionally face barriers to work and study including:
- First Nations Australians
- People who are out of work or receiving income support payments
- Unpaid carers
- Women facing economic insecurity
- Women undertaking study in non-traditional fields
- People with disability
- Young people (17-24)
- Certain categories of visa holders.
Those leaving school, looking for work, or wanting to upskill and change careers, may be eligible with a range of study options on offer.
Through Fee-Free TAFE, people can study a diploma, certificate, or short course.
With courses available in IT and digital, agriculture, hospitality and tourism, aged and disability care, childcare, construction, the VET workforce and defence or manufacturing, Fee-Free TAFE covers a wide range of in-demand industries that enables people to secure a well-paid job.
These courses are being rolled out fee-free on a state-by-state basis to tackle a national skills shortage.
More information about courses available in each state and territory can be found on yourcareer.gov.au/fee-free-tafe