Free TAFE prioritising training for critical workforce needs

By Kate Walters

Dec 2, 2024

GOTAFE is one of the places where free courses are available. Photo by Rodney Braithwaite

TAFEs, particularly those in regional areas, are set to get a greater proportion of the $1 billion Victorian Training Guarantee in 2025.

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Free TAFE courses will also continue, with free TAFE and subsidised training places again allocated based on the state’s critical workforce needs, according to the Victorian Government.

Skills and TAFE Minister Gayle Tierney said housing and renewable energy would be among the prioritised fields.

“More homes mean more opportunity — that’s why we’re helping Victorians train in construction, giving more Victorians the chance to build rewarding careers while helping build homes for our future,” Ms Tierney said.

“Free TAFE and our world-class training system is giving Victorians the skills they need to get a job for life.”

Eligibility for free TAFE was expanded in 2023 to allow Victorians to do more than one course. This expanded eligibility will remain in place in 2025.

According to the government, women are the biggest winners from the expansion, with women representing 60 per cent of those applying for these courses.

As the state focuses on making it easier for Victorians to train for jobs in sought-after industries, there will be a focus on regional training and training delivered by community organisations such as Learn Locals and Aboriginal Community Controlled Organisations.

Funding for remote TAFE campuses is also set to increase to support access in regional communities.

More than 140,000 new students across the state are expected to benefit from state-subsidised training in 2025, according to the government.

The state’s free TAFE website states that Victorians can now access more than 80 free qualifications and short courses.