The State Government’s signature Free TAFE initiative will grow to more than 60 courses in 2022.
Narre Warren South MP Gary Maas was pleased to announce that the free course offerings at local TAFEs will include seven new courses next year.
This expansion will include the Certificate IV in Veterinary Nursing – giving jobseekers access to world-class training and boosting the veterinary industry by alleviating workforce demands in metropolitan and regional Victoria.
The new additions are part of a regular review of the Free TAFE list, ensuring training meets key government priority areas and skills demands while also boosting the Victorian economy.
Other new courses include the Certificate IV in Outdoor Leadership, supporting the recreational and tourism industry, and the Certificate IV in Leisure and Health, funnelling more experts into the health and aged care system.
The Certificate IV in Work Health and Safety will also join the free courses, as well as the Certificate III in Information Technology, Certificate III in Supply Chain Operations and Certificate IV in Training and Assessment.
“Free TAFE has been such a successful program and it’s no secret why as it gives everyday Victorians the opportunity to train and study in key areas which will drive our recovery and empower more people to return to work post-pandemic,” Mr Maas said.
“These seven new courses will help address the demand for trained workers in areas such as veterinary nursing, information technology and recreational and tourism sectors. So many of our community members are reskilling and finding new career pathways.
“Our economic recovery from the challenges of the coronavirus pandemic is a priority for this government as we see restrictions start to ease and a re-opening up of businesses on the back of vaccinations continuing to increase.”
The Victorian Government’s Free TAFE program began in 2019 to remove barriers to training by allowing eligible students to apply for fully subsidised courses that directly lead to jobs now and into the future.
Ninety-three thousand students have started courses – saving $150 million in the first two years.
To see what options are available to you, visit freetafe.vic.gov.au
