Free TAFE to boost region’s skilled workers

RESIDENTS across the region wanting to upskill have an opportunity to upskill at TAFE thanks to the Andrews Government’s free TAFE program.
Minister for Training, Skills and Higher Education Gayle Tierney announced $163 million in targeted investments to make it easier for people with pre-existing qualifications to retrain so they can get work in sectors that need more skilled workers.
“Free TAFE has been life changing for our local community. This significant announcement will give more residents the opportunity to study close to home and get a good local job,” South Barwon MP Darren Cheeseman said.
It includes funding people affected by the coronavirus pandemic into training – particularly women and young people – in the second half of this year, for jobs in industries that will drive
economic recovery.
The state government said the package would create 10,000 more free TAFE places, and expand free TAFE to include new full qualifications linked to jobs and government priorities.
Geelong-based The Gordon would be among those to benefit as the government creates an extra 10,000 free TAFE places, and expands free TAFE to include new full qualifications that are linked to jobs and government priorities.
Qualifications include Certificate IV in Mental Health Peer Work, the Certificate III in Health Services Assistance, and the Certificate III in Civil Construction Plant Operations.
The funding will also increase the availability of targeted short courses to support upskilling for existing employees, and help retrenched workers and job seekers join professions where there are jobs available.
This includes an introduction to the NDIS (skill set), as well as $3.9 million for an additional 11,000 places in accredited short courses and skill sets in construction across TAFE and industry-owned Registered Training Organisations until June 2021.
The government is also allocating $1.25 million to improve literacy, numeracy and digital skills to help more Victorians progress to further study or employment.