Fee-Free TAFE is a Tasmanian government initiative that offers eligible Tasmanians the opportunity to obtain a fully accredited diploma, certificate qualification, or short course without any cost.
This program specifically addresses areas with skill shortages, ensuring participants gain skills relevant to in-demand job markets. It gives priority to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, unpaid carers, young people, women, individuals with disabilities, and those currently unemployed.
There is a broad selection of qualifications available, especially in sectors experiencing a surge in demand for skilled professionals, such as aged care, hospitality, nursing and healthcare, information technology, construction, agriculture, childcare, disability support, and the manufacturing industry.
Eligibility for Fee-Free TAFE requires being at least 15 years old, residing or working in Tasmania, being an Australian citizen or permanent resident, or holding a valid visa, and not currently attending school.
Training under this initiative is not limited to TAFE institutions; numerous approved Registered Training Organisations (RTOs) across the state also offer these free qualifications.