Australian and Queensland Governments skills agreement delivers results
Queensland TAFE’s are experiencing a surge in enrolments in Fee-Free courses thanks to a landmark partnership between the Australian and Queensland Governments.
More than 11,000 Queensland students have enrolled in 2023 under the Fee-Free initiative, highlighting the demand for and the importance of access to education and training.
Qualifications in early childhood education and care; information technology; individual support (disability); nursing and cyber security have seen strong enrolments, adding much needed skills for these priority industries.
These early results are promising, providing opportunities for priority groups in the Queensland community, and training workers for critical industries.
Quotes Attributable to Brendan O’Connor, Minister for Skills and Training:
“The Albanese Government recognises Queensland’s strong economy and ongoing high demand for skilled workers in the State.
“The encouraging take-up of Fee-Free TAFE and VET courses is a positive sign that people are ready to train for vital industries that will be in demand now and in the future.
“Whether it’s in renewable energy, the care sector, technology and digital, hospitality and tourism, construction, agriculture or defence, Fee-Free TAFE and VET and our new energy apprenticeships removes financial barriers for Queenslanders to access training to upskill or reskill for jobs in priority sectors.
“Our end goal is to provide greater opportunity for Queenslanders to have secure and rewarding work.”
Quotes Attributable to Di Farmer, Queensland Minister for Training and Skills Development:
“The Palaszczuk Government is proud to partner with the Federal Government in the national delivery of the Fee-Free TAFE program.
“We are delighted to see such a strong take up in the initiative from Queenslanders who are showing their ambition to reach their careers goals, with more than 11,000 students enrolling in the program.
“Queenslanders enrolling in the Fee-Free TAFE program are showing a particular passion for business, cyber security, education, health, and support services.
“The Palaszczuk Government know it’s important for everyone to have access to excellent training so that they can build their dream careers, and enter the workforce, job ready.
“Our current statistics show 84 per cent of TAFE Queensland graduates go on to find employment or do further study.