Free TAFE saves students $674 million

THE State Government has lauded the fact that its Free TAFE program has benefited more than 212,600 students in Victoria since it began in 2019, saving them $674 million in tuition fees – an average of $3000 per course.

According to the government, the program has delivered industry skills to help people secure careers.

Official data said of those taking courses last year, 11 per cent were people with a disability, 20 per cent were people experiencing unemployment and 59 per cent were women.

More than 80 Free TAFE qualifications and short courses are currently available across Victoria and all Victorians are eligible to upskill for in-demand jobs regardless of their existing qualification level and can study multiple courses within the same priority pathway.

The program has been a gamechanger for Victorians, the government claimed, casting back to the former Liberal Government’s dismissal of more than 2000 TAFE teachers and the closure of 22 TAFE campuses.

“Free TAFE is about removing barriers so every Victorian can get the skills they need without the cost holding them back – because we’re on your side,” said Minister for Skills and TAFE Gayle Tierney.

“We can’t risk going back to the days when the Liberals cut thousands of teachers, closed campuses, and slashed funding.

“We rebuilt our TAFE sector and are making it stronger than ever with Free TAFE.”

To find out more about what’s on offer at TAFE (free from fees), visit the Victorian Government website.