Government Funded Courses
Government funding assists students by subsidising their tuition fees. Schemes vary from state to state, and students are required to meet eligibility requirements.
What is Government Funding?
Government funding assists students by subsidising their tuition fees. Schemes vary from state to state, and students are required to meet eligibility requirements.
The courses that get subsidised also happen to be the ones that are in high demand. This is because governments fund courses to meet skills shortages or sometimes to prepare for an increase in jobs in that area.
A country with a skilled workforce has a lot of advantages, so both state and federal governments work hard to make affordable training available to everyone. They do this by supporting students by providing funding for courses.
Not all courses are approved for government funding and sometimes a course in one state gets funding, while the same course in another state doesn’t. It might seem complex, but we’ve made it simple for you to find funding with our eligibility check.
Are Government Funded Courses Free?
There are a handful of priority fully funded government courses but places are limited and strict eligibility requirements apply. You may still need to pay fees such as student services fees or material fees.
Even if you can’t get a qualification for free, there are affordable ways to get qualified. Government funded courses cover a more extensive range of courses than the free priority course list and they are readily available. You can find a government funded course by completing the eligibility check.
VET Student Loans are also available for eligible students and help cover the cost of tuition fees. The loans are capped, meaning that students may have to pay gap amounts that are not covered by the loan. Students are required to repay these loans when they begin earning an income that is above the minimum repayment threshold.
How to get Government Funding for a Course
Each state has their own government funding scheme, and the course provider is required to apply and be approved for each funding scheme. Students must also meet eligibility requirements to gain access to these grants.
For you to receive government funding, you need to find a subsidised course by an approved provider and make sure you meet the eligibility requirements.
We’ve made it easy for you to check your government funded course eligibility. The eligibility check is designed to match your eligibility with a course that suits you best. It is the easiest way to find a government funded course.
Government Funding by State
Looking to enhance your skills for better employment opportunities? If you're in the Australian Capital Territory (ACT), you might be eligible for complimentary training.
JobTrainer ACT is an investment of more than $16.75 million in vocational education and training (VET) by the Australian and ACT state governments. This joint undertaking will allow more than 2,500 residents of the Australian Capital Territory to undertake free training.
User Choice Funding is a national funding scheme that subsidises the cost of an Australian Apprenticeship. The level of funding varies by state.
Need the skills to get a job or follow your career passion? If you live in New South Wales (NSW) you might be eligible for free training.
JobTrainer is an Australian government initiative to help young Australians get the job skills they need to find employment. Up to $2 billion is being allocated (across all states and territories, including New South Wales) for (VET) vocational education and training.
Browse fully subsidised courses and check your eligibility for the hundreds of qualifications up-for-grabs under the NSW Fee-Free scheme.
Smart and Skilled allows eligible NSW students to enrol in subsidised qualifications from Certificate I through to an Advanced Diploma as well as all NSW apprenticeships and selected new entrant traineeships.
Seeking to upgrade your skills for a fulfilling career? Residents in the Northern Territory (NT) might have access to free vocational training.
Thousands of free and low cost training courses are available to residents of the Northern Territory under JobTrainer NT — a joint investment by the Australian government and the NT state government.
User Choice Funding is a national funding scheme that subsidises the cost of an apprenticeship or traineeship, and provides additional incentives for students in remote and regional areas.
The Certificate 3 Guarantee provides funding for a range of Certificate III qualifications as well as foundation skills training.
Fee-Free TAFE (QLD) is a state government initiative that offers eligible Queenslanders the chance to attain a fully accredited diploma, certificate qualification, or short course at zero cost.
This funding scheme provides free training for students who are under 21 years of age in priority apprenticeship and traineeship programs.
Fee Free Training for Year 12 Graduates enables eligible Year 12 graduates to access fee-free apprenticeships, traineeships and training in high priority areas. The Queensland government provides subsidised training within the calendar year after graduating from high school.
The Higher Level Skills Program provides funding for Certificate IV or higher level qualifications within priority skill sets.
JobTrainer Queensland is an investment of more than $201 million into the vocational education and training (VET) sector in Queensland. This joint initiative between the Federal Government and the QLD state government will allow new workers, school leavers, apprentices, and trainees to access free and low cost training.
User Choice Funding is a national funding scheme that subsidises the cost of an apprenticeship or traineeship.
Looking to upgrade your skillset and propel your career forward? If you're in South Australia (SA), you might have the opportunity to access free training.
The South Australian state government (in partnership with the federal government) have allocated more than $88 million in new training opportunities for the residents of South Australia.
Skilling South Australia allows eligible SA students to enrol in subsidised qualifications from Certificate I through to an Advanced Diploma.
WorkReady is the funding and incentive program in South Australia for Vocational Education and Training (VET). WorkReady provides training and employment opportunities for disadvantaged groups, strategic industries and regional locations.
Ready to enhance your skills and advance your career? If you're in Tasmania (TAS), you might be in luck with access to free training.
JobTrainer TAS is a joint undertaking by the State government of Tasmania and the Federal Government. Together they are providing $21.04 million for new VET (vocational education and training) opportunities for the citizens of Tasmania.
Skills Tasmania is a state government program that helps the citizens of Tasmania access subsidised qualifications and the vocational training that leads to actual jobs and business opportunities.
Fee-Free TAFE is a Victorian government initiative aimed at providing free training in selected courses to help people gain the skills they need to secure a job. It offers a range of qualifications in industries such as health, construction, and technology, with the goal of reducing the cost of education and increasing job opportunities.
JobTrainer VIC is an investment in the vocational education and training (VET) of Victorian workers, school leavers, apprentices, and trainees. It’s a joint undertaking by the Australian and state government of Victoria allowing residents to enrol in free and low cost training.
Skills First allows eligible VIC students to enrol in subsidised qualifications from Certificate I through to an Advanced Diploma.
Seeking to boost your skillset and explore new career opportunities? If you're in Western Australia (WA), you might have the chance to benefit from free training.
Jobs and Skills allows eligible WA students to enrol a range of training options including apprenticeships, traineeships, and industry qualifications.
JobTrainer Western Australia is a joint investment by the Australian government and the WA state government into the vocational education and training (VET) sector. Residents of Western Australia share in $104 million of new training opportunities from January 2021.
The Lower Fees, Local Skills program is an initiative of the Western Australian Government and the Department of Training and Workforce Development. Through this program, the state government of WA is heavily subsidising VET training courses in job growth areas and industry sectors that play an important role in diversifying the economy of WA.
Popular Government Funded Courses
HLT37215
Online, On Campus, Traineeship
More info
Possible job outcomes:
Pathology Collector
Phlebotomist
The HLT37215 Certificate III in Pathology Collection is a hands-on qualification that prepares you for work in a pathology unit or testing centre. Over 6 months you will learn how to collect blood and other pathology samples — then prepare, record and despatch for testing. Choose electives from electrocardiography (ECG), first aid, recognising healthy body systems, drug and abuse testing.
Enquire now for the list of study units and electives, plus your eligibility for government funded training..
Average duration: 6 months.
CHC33021
Online, On Campus, Traineeship
More info
Possible job outcomes:
Home Care Assistance Worker
Residential Care Worker
Disability Support Worker
Community Care Worker
Personal Carer
Aged Care Worker
Trainee Support Worker
Aboriginal Disability Worker
Home Carer
The Certificate III in Individual Support (Disability) equips individuals with the skills to work in the disability sector, including person-centered care, communication, safety procedures, promoting independence, and community participation. This course includes supervised work placements. On completion, graduates can work as disability support workers in various settings..
Average duration: 12 months.
CPP20218
Online, On Campus
More info
Possible job outcomes:
Security Guard
Security Officer
CCTV Operator
Become a licensed security guard (unarmed) with the Certificate II in Security Operations (CPP20218). You will learn how to provide security services for a range of clients while protecting yourself, patrons, and the general public. The course covers: first aid, basic self defence, screening people and personal effects, conducting patrols, crowd control, managing intoxicated people, removing persons from premises.
Enquire now for enrolment opportunities in your state or territory..
Average duration: 3 weeks.
CHC30121
Online, On Campus, Distance, Traineeship
More info
Possible job outcomes:
Family Day Care Educator
Nanny
Early Childhood Educator
Childcare Assistant
The CHC30121 Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care is for students seeking roles in a range of early childhood education settings, working within the requirements of the Education and Care Services National Regulations and the National Quality Standard. Students gain a range of knowledge and skills including caring for children, developing relationships with babies and toddlers, keeping children safe as well as supporting children’s play and learning..
Average duration: 12 months.
CHC43315
Online, On Campus, Distance, Traineeship
More info
Possible job outcomes:
Family Support Worker
Mental Health Worker
Support Worker
Outreach Worker
Social Worker
Peer Support Worker
Mental Health Social Worker
Crisis Support Worker
Mental Health Practitioner
Mental Health Counsellor
Mental Health Clinician
The Certificate IV in Mental Health (CHC43315) is for students wanting to work or volunteer providing support to people affected by mental illness or have a psychiatric disability. Students complete 15 units which focus heavily on foundation interpersonal skills such as building relationships, working collaboratively, and working with diverse cultural groups. Additionally, students graduate with practical skills and knowledge in trauma informed care, drug and alcohol issues affecting mental health and staying safe at work. To graduate and receive the qualification, each student must complete at least 80 hours of relevant work.
The Certificate IV in Mental Health (CHC43315) is a nationally recognised training qualification and part of the official Community Services Training Package..
Average duration: 12 months.
CHC40221
Online, On Campus, Distance, Traineeship
More info
Possible job outcomes:
Learning Support Officer
Education Assistant
Teacher Assistant
Teacher Aide
Get at job as a Teacher Aide at Australian high schools and primary schools with the CHC40221 - Certificate IV in School Based Education Support. This nationally recognised qualification will teach you how to support qualified teachers in the classroom, providing supervision and one-to-one student support in English, reading and maths. The course covers: communicating with teachers and parents, assisting students with disabilities, understanding the unique needs of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students, supervising students outside the classroom, and much more. This course also has scope to specialise in eLearning and online support. Enquire now for the list of entry requirements, Teacher Aide career outcomes, and available enrolment dates..
Average duration: 6 months.
HLT33115
Online, On Campus, Distance, Traineeship
More info
Possible job outcomes:
Ward Assistant
Patient Care Assistant
Operating Theatre Technician
Nursing Assistant
Patient Services Assistant
Allied Health Assistant
Hospital Attendant
A Certificate III in Health Services Assistance HLT33115 is a tailored for students needing the practical skills to assist with nursing work in an acute care environment. Students learn the fundamentals of working within the Australian Health System, transporting and assisting patients in acute care, as well as first aid.
The Certificate III in Health Services Assistance HLT33115 is a nationally recognised training qualification and part of the official Health Training Package..
Average duration: 6 months.
FNS40222
Online, On Campus, Traineeship
More info
Possible job outcomes:
Payroll Officer
Assistant Accountant
Bookkeeper
Accounts Receivable Officer
Accounts Officer
Accounts Clerk
BAS Agent
Become a registered BAS Agent with the FNS40222 Certificate IV in Accounting and Bookkeeping. This nationally recognised qualification meets the requirements of the Tax Practitioner’s Board (TPB) and will teach you how to prepare and lodge business activity statements (BAS) and take care of bookkeeping functions for Australian business clients. The course covers: designing and using spreadsheets, setting up computerised accounting systems, processing financial transactions, preparing reports and financial statements, assisting clients with BAS lodgement and tax instalments. Enquire now for the full list of entry requirements, TPB registration competencies, and upcoming enrolment opportunities near you.
PLEASE NOTE: If you are seeking registration with the Tax Practitioner’s Board (TPB), always contact your training provider before enrolling to ensure you select the correct study units..
Average duration: 12 months.
HLT54121
Online, On Campus
More info
Possible job outcomes:
Nursing Assistant
Rehabilitation Nurse
Aboriginal Health Worker
Aged Care Nurse
Mental Health Nurse
Enrolled Nurse
Community Health Nurse
Become an enrolled nurse with the HLT54121 Diploma of Nursing. This nationally recognised diploma is part of the enrolled nurse registration requirements of the Nursing and Midwifery Board of Australia (NMBA). The course covers: working as a nurse within the Australian healthcare system, performing clinical assessment of patients, principles of wound management, administering medicines and intravenous therapy, nursing patients with mental health issues, monitoring acute and chronic health conditions, palliative care approaches, infection controls, ethics and legalities of nursing. Enquire now for the list of entry requirements, nursing career outcomes, and upcoming enrolment dates.
PLEASE NOTE: if you are seeking registration with NMBA always check with your course provider before enrolment to ensure the correct electives are selected..
Average duration: 24 months.
CHC52021
Online, On Campus, Traineeship
More info
Possible job outcomes:
Intake Worker
Aboriginal Community Care Worker
Community Corrections Officer
Senior Support Worker
Social Worker
Welfare Worker
Outreach Worker
Youth Justice Officer
Support Worker
Community Development Worker
Family Support Worker
Housing Officer
The CHC52021 Diploma of Community Services is a nationally recognized qualification that prepares students for leadership roles in the community services sector. Students will develop advanced skills in advocacy, social justice, policy development, and program design. Graduates can work in leadership roles, such as community services manager, program manager, or social policy analyst, in government and non-government organizations..
Average duration: 12 months.
CHC43415
Online, On Campus, Distance, Traineeship
More info
Possible job outcomes:
Lifestyle Coordinator
Diversional Therapy Assistant
A Certificate IV in Leisure and Health CHC43415 is great for students needing the skills to design and implement leisure activities and health programs. And our course providers have structured the electives in this qualification so students gain specialised skills for working with elderly clients at home or in Australian aged care facilities.
The Certificate IV in Leisure and Health CHC43415 is a nationally recognised training qualification and part of the official Community Services Training Package..
Average duration: 12 months.
CPC40120
Online, On Campus, Traineeship
More info
Possible job outcomes:
Construction Supervisor
Building Estimator
Site Foreman
Construction Project Manager
Construction Estimator
Building Supervisor
Become a licensed builder with the CPC40120 Certificate IV in Building and Construction (Building). This nationally recognised qualification is the minimum training requirement for builders working on domestic premises in Australia. The course covers: understanding building codes and standards, managing WHS on a construction site, reading and interpreting plans and specifications, applying site surveys, managing site communication and admin, procuring construction materials, managing construction quality, and more. Enquire now for entry requirements, licensing outcomes, and upcoming enrolment dates.
PLEASE NOTE: requirements for builder’s licences vary by state and territory. Always check the requirements before enrolling in any training course..
Average duration: 12 months.
BSB30120
Online, On Campus, Distance, Traineeship
More info
Possible job outcomes:
Scheduler
Administrative Assistant
Appointment Setter
Operations Coordinator
Area Manager
Administration Manager
Regional Manager
Business Administrator
School Administration Officer
Customer Service Representative
Office Assistant
Receptionist
Personal Assistant
Data Entry Clerk
Administration Officer
Executive Assistant
Payroll Clerk
Accounts Clerk
The BSB30120 Certificate III in Business prepares you for an administrative role. You’ll gain essential communication and teamwork skills, then specialise in an area that supports your career aspirations. Specialty areas include: technology and IT, business competence, teamwork and relationships, customer service, accounts, medical administration, records management. Enquire now for the full list of elective choices, entry requirements, and available enrolment dates..
Average duration: 12 months.
CHC33021
Online, On Campus, Traineeship
More info
Possible job outcomes:
Aged Care Social Worker
Home Carer
Aboriginal Aged Care Worker
Trainee Support Worker
Aged Care Worker
Personal Carer
Community Care Worker
Disability Support Worker
Support Worker
Residential Care Worker
Home Care Assistance Worker
The Certificate III in Individual Support (Ageing) is a comprehensive program aimed at preparing students to provide personalized care and support to elderly individuals. Through a combination of theoretical knowledge and practical training, students will learn to assist with daily activities, promote independence, and contribute to the well-being and quality of life of older people in various care settings.
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Average duration: 12 months.
CHC53315
Online, On Campus, Distance, Traineeship
More info
Possible job outcomes:
Family Support Worker
Mental Health Worker
Social Worker
Outreach Worker
Support Worker
Peer Support Worker
Mental Health Clinician
Mental Health Counsellor
Mental Health Practitioner
Crisis Support Worker
Mental Health Social Worker
A Diploma of Mental Health CHC53315 is perfect for students seeking careers as community services workers supporting people with mental health issues. Students learn about working collaboratively, maintaining personal safety, helping people affected by drugs and alcohol, facilitating recovery, as well as managing grief and trauma.
The Diploma of Mental Health CHC53315 is a nationally recognised training qualification and part of the official Community Services Training Package..
Average duration: 12 months.
BSB41419
Online, On Campus, Distance, Traineeship
More info
Possible job outcomes:
Work Health and Safety Officer
The BSB41419 - Certificate IV in Work Health and Safety is a Nationally Recognised Training (NRT) qualification. Please make an enquiry to find out more about the course such as government funding options, study modes and duration..
Average duration: 12 months.
CHC50421
Online, On Campus, Traineeship
More info
Possible job outcomes:
Youth Worker
Family Support Worker
Child Safety Officer
Youth Justice Officer
Outreach Worker
Youth Counsellor
Welfare Worker
Youth Case Worker
Social Worker
Youth Support Worker
The Diploma of Youth Work is a nationally recognized qualification that prepares students for a rewarding career working with young people. You will develop skills in youth development, mental health, advocacy, and community engagement. Graduates can work as youth workers in various government and non-government organizations, such as youth centers, schools, and community services..
Average duration: 12 months.
BSB40120
Online, On Campus, Distance, Traineeship
More info
Possible job outcomes:
Office Manager
Procurement Officer
Team Leader
Supervisor
Project Coordinator
Business Support Officer
Business Administrator
Presales Consultant
Administration Manager
Area Manager
Step into a supervisory or management role with the BSB40120 Certificate IV in Business. This nationally recognised qualification will level up your use of digital technologies and develop your critical thinking, business relationships and communication strategies. Even better you can choose from one of nine specialisation areas — leadership, administration, operations, sustainability, big data, cyber security, finance, records and information management, or procurement. Graduate with an arsenal of skills that support your actual job role.
Enquire now for the list of study units and enrolment opportunities near you..
Average duration: 12 months.
CHC33021
Online, On Campus, Traineeship
More info
Possible job outcomes:
Home Carer
Aboriginal Disability Worker
Aboriginal Aged Care Worker
Trainee Support Worker
Community Care Worker
Aged Care Worker
Personal Carer
Residential Care Worker
Home Care Assistance Worker
Disability Support Worker
The Certificate III in Individual Support (Ageing and Disability) is a comprehensive program designed to equip students with the necessary knowledge and practical skills to provide care and support to individuals in the ageing and disability sectors. Through a combination of theoretical learning and hands-on training, students will develop a deep understanding of person-centred care, communication techniques, and the ability to assist individuals with daily living activities, promoting independence and enhancing their quality of life..
Average duration: 12 months.
CHC42021
Online, On Campus, Traineeship
More info
Possible job outcomes:
Community Support Worker
Social Worker
Welfare Worker
Case Manager
Community Development Worker
Outreach Worker
Youth Justice Officer
Senior Support Worker
Community Corrections Officer
Family Support Worker
Youth Worker
Housing Officer
Aboriginal Community Care Worker
The Certificate IV in Community Services is a nationally recognized qualification that prepares students for a career in the community services sector. You will develop skills in community development, case management, diversity, and ethics. Gain hands-on experience through supervised work placements. Graduates can work in various roles, such as community service worker, case manager, and program coordinator in government and non-government organizations..
Average duration: 12 months.