Today marks the beginning of the Andrews Labor Government’s overhaul of the state’s training and TAFE system.
With the introduction of Skills First, the Labor Government is ensuring Victoria's training and TAFE system is better managed and delivers qualifications that lead to real jobs.
The Skills First reforms, first flagged in August, will be introduced progressively from this month. They follow last year’s response to the independent VET Funding Review led by Bruce Mackenzie.
Skills First offers real training for real jobs through:
- High-quality training which students and industry can trust, aligned to industry and workforce needs
- Restored funding for TAFE, which was cut under the former Government
- A real voice for industry in training
- Funding for high needs learners who need additional support to succeed in education and training
- Access to targeted, relevant training for students in regional areas
Students and industry will still be able to choose between TAFEs, dual sector universities, community and quality private training providers for government-funded training.
Starting with an extra $164 million in 2017, TAFEs will receive increased funding every year to help Victorians, regardless of their background or postcode, access real training for real jobs.
In addition, training providers will have access to targeted funding streams. In 2017, this includes $30 million for a Regional and Specialist Training fund, $20 million to support high needs learners and $40 million for the Workforce Training Innovation Fund.
After inheriting a TAFE system in disarray, the Government has invested heavily in TAFEs, including the $320 million TAFE Rescue Fund and our $50 million TAFE Back to Work Fund.
The Government has also cracked down on low-quality, dodgy training providers, with a quality blitz and tough new training contracts brought in to help to restore confidence.
For more details on the new system, go to
Quotes attributable to Minister for Training and Skills Gayle Tierney
“Skills First guarantees funding to secure the future of TAFE, ensures quality training, and will make sure Victorians have the right skills for the jobs of the future.”
“It will deliver a high quality, stable system so students have access to real training that will lead to a real job so they don’t waste their time and money on courses that won’t get them employed.”
Reviewed 19 August 2020