If you’re looking to upskill or start a new career without the burden of tuition fees, Victoria’s Free TAFE initiative is an excellent opportunity. Launched by the Victorian Government and supported by the Australian Government, Free TAFE offers more than 80 priority courses where eligible students can study without paying tuition fees. Here’s a clear, up-to-date overview of what courses are free in Victoria in 2025 and how you can benefit.
What is Free TAFE?
Free TAFE is a government-funded program aimed at reducing financial barriers for Victorians seeking vocational education and training (VET). It covers tuition fees for a wide range of certificates, diplomas, and short courses in areas with strong job prospects and workforce demand.
The program is designed to support:
- Career changers wanting to reskill
- Unemployed individuals and those needing additional support
- Workers affected by industry changes, such as retrenched or automotive supply-chain workers
Who is Eligible?
To access Free TAFE courses, you must be:
- An Australian citizen, permanent resident, or New Zealand citizen
- A Victorian resident physically present in Victoria during your training
- Eligible for government-subsidised training (some eligibility checks apply)
Importantly, Free TAFE is available even if you already hold a VET qualification or degree, and you can access multiple Free TAFE courses if they fall within the same occupational pathway.
Which Courses Are Free?
Free TAFE courses cover a broad range of in-demand industries. Here are some key study areas and examples of free courses offered in Victoria:
Building and Construction
- Certificate II in Building and Construction Pre-apprenticeship (Carpentry, Bricklaying)
- Certificate IV in Building and Construction (Building)
- Diploma of Building and Construction (Building)
Health and Community Services
- Certificate IV in Allied Health Assistance
- Certificate IV in Community Services
- Diploma of Nursing (on campus and online)
- Certificate III in Individual Support (Ageing and Disability)
Information Technology and Cyber Security
- Certificate III in Information Technology
- Certificate IV in Cyber Security (with prerequisite Certificate III in IT)
Business and Accounting
- Certificate IV in Accounting and Bookkeeping
- Diploma of Accounting
Electrotechnology and Plumbing
- Certificate II in Electrotechnology (Career Start)
- Certificate II in Plumbing (Pre-apprenticeship)
Other Priority Areas
- Certificate IV in Work Health and Safety
- Certificate IV in Mental Health
- Diploma of Youth Work
How to Enrol?
You can enrol in Free TAFE courses through TAFE institutes and participating training providers across Victoria, such as Holmesglen Institute, Victoria University, Swinburne University of Technology, and TAFE Gippsland. Each provider offers online application portals and support services to help you check eligibility and submit your application.
Additional Costs
While tuition fees are waived, students may still need to cover other expenses such as:
- Student services and amenities fees
- Materials and equipment costs
- Textbooks and uniforms (if applicable)
Always check with your preferred training provider for specific additional fees.
Why Choose Free TAFE?
- No Tuition Fees: Study without the financial pressure of paying tuition.
- Industry-Relevant Training: Courses align with skills employers need now and in the future.
- Career Pathways: Many courses provide pathways to apprenticeships, higher qualifications, or direct employment.
- Flexible Learning: Options include full-time, part-time, online, and blended learning.
Summary
Victoria’s Free TAFE initiative offers a fantastic chance to gain valuable qualifications in high-demand fields without paying tuition fees. With over 80 courses available in areas like construction, health, IT, and community services, eligible Victorians can upskill, reskill, or start new careers affordably and effectively in 2025.