Expanded Eligibility For Free TAFE
Stress less while you study - have your tuition fees paid for by the government, with Free TAFE for Priority Courses!
Browse courses on offerFree TAFE covers tuition fees for priority courses for students who are eligible for government-subsidised training.
Eligibility for Free TAFE has expanded, and community members no longer need to meet specific age, upskilling, or reskilling requirements, meaning that most will now be eligible to study under the Free TAFE program.
Further eligibility changes mean that from 1 January 2024, new and continuing students who identify as Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander can access free tuition.
Let's talk about Free TAFE
The Government's Free TAFE for Priority Courses is here to help you stress less while you study, and overcome financial barriers that might be stopping you from pursuing the course of your dreams.
The idea is to upskill more people for jobs that are in demand across Victoria. Some of them lead to work in important areas like preventing family violence, supporting aged care, disability and nursing, preventing cyber security, or supporting our hospitality industry.
If eligible, your tuition fees will be paid for by the Government. Please note there may be some out-of-pocket expenses incurred from material and service fees.
Read on to find out if you're eligible, and how to get on board with Free TAFE!
When I found out that GOTAFE was offering this qualification as part of Free TAFE, I was excited as this meant that I could stay close to home and not have to pay travel and accommodation fees.
- William Vise, studying Cyber Security.
Are you eligible?
If you are an Australian citizen or permanent resident; or a New Zealand citizen, you may be eligible to study to a free TAFE course.
Frequently Asked Questions
What courses are offered as part of Free TAFE?
The courses offered under Free TAFE are reviewed every year. To browse the courses currently on offer at GOTAFE, click the link below.
The tuition-free priority courses lead to occupations in industries where there are likely to be more jobs.
Browse courses on offerDoes it cover all my fees?
If you are eligible, Free TAFE for Priority Courses pays the tuition fees for your whole course. TAFEs may charge you other fees, such as student services fees or materials fees that you will have to cover yourself.
Can I do a course that's not on the Free TAFE for Priority Courses list?
Yes, however you will need to pay the necessary tuition fee and costs associated with that course.
If you are interested in doing a course that is not included on the Free TAFE for Priority Courses then you may be able to apply for a course that is Victorian Government subsidised so the cost to you is reduced, if you are eligible.
There are many courses that are Victorian Government subsidised.
What's the difference between government-subsidised training and Free TAFE for Priority Courses?
Victorian Government-subsidised training is when the Government pays a large portion of the cost of your training if you are eligible, and you make a contribution, by paying fees. It’s been around for a while and there are around 1,000 subsidised courses you can do at TAFEs and other training providers.
If I do Free TAFE for Priority Courses, will I get a job?
The tuition-free priority courses are in areas where there are likely to be more jobs in the future.
When you finish your course, a Skills and Jobs Centre can help you search for a job and support you to prepare your resume.
How many Free TAFE for Priority Courses can I do tuition-free?
Free TAFE for Priority Courses will pay your tuition fees for one or more courses within the same stream, depending upon the course you choose. Our friendly Enquiries Officers can give you accurate advice – just call 1300 GOTAFE (468 233).
How will Free TAFE for Priority Courses affect my eligibility for future government-subsidised training?
Courses undertaken as Free TAFE for Priority Courses are treated the same way as any other course you have undertaken, for the purpose of determining whether you are eligible for further Victorian Government-subsidised training.
GOTAFE will be able to tell you about whether you will have future Victorian Government-subsidised training options.
Where can I find out more?
Talk to a member of our Skills and Jobs Centre if you're unsure.
You can also contact the Training and TAFE hotline on 131 823 or visit VIC Government's website for Free TAFE