Free TAFE Guarantee future-proofs education access

Victorians wanting to study a Free TAFE course will have continued financial security following the passing of the Victorian Government’s Free TAFE Guarantee Bill.

It is a major milestone for vocational education and will support individuals wanting to pursue study and training at one of Holmesglen’s campuses.

The Free TAFE Guarantee Bill ensures:

• 70 per cent of all government Vocational Education and Training (VET) funding must go to TAFEs and dual-sector universities
• Victorians can continue to access tuition-free courses, including a wide range of Free TAFE courses at Holmesglen
• Access training for in-demand industries, including building and construction, nursing, and IT

“The Free TAFE Guarantee will give future students and their families greater certainty about the financial cost of what is often a life-changing decision to invest in further education,” said Holmesglen Chief Executive, Mary Faraone.

Since its introduction, more than 229,000 students have benefited from Free TAFE in Victoria, saving an estimated $777 million in tuition fees, or more than $3,390 per student on average, according to Victorian TAFE Association data.

“Whether you are a parent returning to the workforce in regional Victoria or a young person starting an apprenticeship in the suburbs, TAFE will provide you the training you need to succeed and get a job,” said Victorian TAFE Association Chief Executive Officer, Alex White.

The Free TAFE Priorities Program has helped students gain life-changing qualifications in sectors that are facing skill gaps.

Industries facing skills shortages, such as aged care and construction, are now benefiting from a new generation of qualified professionals trained at Victorian TAFEs.

Holmesglen Institute, one of Victoria’s largest TAFEs has welcomed the passage of the Victorian Government’s Free TAFE Guarantee Bill.

The Bill, which guarantees 70% of all government Vocational Education and Training (VET) funding must go to TAFEs and dual-sector universities, will provide certainty for prospective learners and their families.

It also reduces the financial barrier for students wanting to train in courses that have a clear pathway to in-demand occupations.

Holmesglen currently offers Free TAFE courses across eight study areas at Holmesglen - at a pre-apprenticeship, certificate, or diploma qualification level.

Chief Executive Mary Faraone said fees can be a significant consideration for prospective students looking to start their TAFE training, upskill for a current job or pathway to a career.

“The Free TAFE Guarantee will give future students and their families greater certainty about the financial cost of what is often a life-changing decision to invest in further education.

“We believe the Bill may also help further underpin confidence in TAFE and allow families to plan their future studies knowing that Free TAFE is a permanent feature of our VET system,” Ms Faraone said.

Under the Bill, there are no tuition fees for students studying courses on the Free TAFE priority skills list. Students may still be required to cover some costs related to services and materials.

“In addition to prospective students, the Free TAFE Guarantee is also good news for our industries and employer partners, especially in areas where there remain some skills shortages, such as aged care and construction.”

According to Victorian TAFE Association data, more than 229,000 students have benefited from Free TAFE in Victoria since 2019, saving $777 million in tuition fees – or more than $3,390 per student on average.

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