Around 3000 Victorians have begun working towards a Free TAFE qualification, thanks to the Andrews Labor Government.
Premier Daniel Andrews, Acting Minister for Skills and Training and Higher Education James Merlino and Member for Frankston Paul Edbrooke today met with Free TAFE students studying nursing and automotive courses at Chisholm Institute in Frankston.
These students were among more than 1000 people who have commenced Free TAFE training at Chisholm in January – compared to just 91 students who were enrolled in these priority courses last year.
Demand for Free TAFE courses has been so strong that Chisholm has added more classes in the coming weeks to keep up with demand.
Commencement data shows that there has already been a three-fold increase in student numbers in Free TAFE courses across Victoria compared to last year. More than 800 of those were in pre-apprenticeship classes. The top five courses for January Free TAFE commencements were:
- Diploma of Nursing
- Certificate II in Plumbing (Pre-apprenticeship)
- Certificate IV in Accounting and Bookkeeping
- Certificate IV in Disability
- Certificate III in Individual Support
Free TAFE will mean more Victorians get the skills they need for jobs working on major road and rail projects, building schools and hospitals and caring for our loved ones.
TAFE institutes across Victoria are continuing to take enrolments for Free TAFE courses, with classes starting throughout 2019. For the full list of Free TAFE courses, visit freetafe.vic.gov.au
Quotes attributable to Premier Daniel Andrews
“Free TAFE is giving Victorians the skills they need to secure the job they want - without a hefty price tag.”
“Not only are we investing in the projects our state needs, we’re investing in the people we need to deliver them.”
Quotes attributable to Acting Minister for Training and Skills and Higher Education James Merlino
“We said we would deliver Free TAFE and now thousands of Victorians are enrolled at the start of term.”
“We’re rebuilding TAFE in Victoria and Free TAFE is now filling campuses across the state.”
Quote attributable to Member for Frankston Paul Edbrooke
“The Frankston community are voting with their feet for Free TAFE to get the skills they need.”
Quote attributable to Member for Carrum Sonya Kilkenny
“Free TAFE here at Chisholm means more locals working in the most in-demand jobs, delivering vital services.”
Reviewed 19 August 2020