The Victorian Government is expanding Free TAFE training, with a focus on key industries including renewable energy sectors.
Announced by Skills and TAFE Minister Gayle Tierney, the State’s 2025 initiative will prioritise training that directly supports the most pressing economic and infrastructure challenges.
The program will fund more than 530 courses and 85 accredited short courses, targeting industries experiencing significant skill gaps.
The program introduces innovative approaches to skills training, including the introduction of ‘Skill Sets’ in priority areas.
This approach allows students to complete only the specific units needed to meet regulatory requirements, enabling faster entry into the workforce.
Women are emerging as the primary beneficiaries of the expanded Free TAFE program, with 60 per cent of applicants being female.
The initiative builds on eligibility changes introduced in January 2023, which now allow Victorians to complete more than one course free of charge.
Regional communities will see significant benefits, with increased funding for remote TAFE campuses and a greater proportion of the Victorian Training Guarantee allocated to regional TAFEs.
The $1 billion investment is expected to support more than 140,000 new students in vocational training during 2025.
Notably, the program also prioritises foundational skills training, including literacy and numeracy courses, to help unemployed Victorians improve their employability.
Private Registered Training Organisations will continue to be eligible to deliver Free TAFE courses in priority areas.
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