If you’re exploring education options in Victoria, Australia, you might be wondering: Does Victoria have TAFE? The answer is a definite yes. Victoria boasts a comprehensive network of TAFE (Technical and Further Education) institutions that provide practical, industry-aligned training to help students and workers gain the skills needed for today’s job market.
What is TAFE in Victoria?
TAFE institutes in Victoria offer nationally recognized vocational education and training (VET) courses across a wide range of industries. These include certificates, diplomas, and advanced diplomas in areas such as construction, healthcare, business, information technology, community services, and more. TAFE is designed to equip learners with hands-on skills and qualifications that lead directly to employment or further study.
Free TAFE in Victoria: Expanding Access in 2025
One of the most exciting developments is the Victorian Government’s Free TAFE program, which has been running since 2019 and expanded significantly in 2025. This initiative allows eligible Victorians to study more than 80 priority courses without paying tuition fees. The program is supported by both the Victorian and Australian governments and aims to remove financial barriers to education and training.
From January 2025, an additional 5,200 fee-free TAFE places, including up to 1,300 pre-apprenticeship spots, have been made available. This expansion targets industries with strong employment demand, such as construction, care services, renewable energy, and digital technology.
Who Can Access Free TAFE?
To be eligible for Free TAFE in Victoria, you must be:
- An Australian citizen, permanent resident, or New Zealand citizen living in Victoria
- Physically present in Victoria during your training
- Eligible for government-subsidized training
Importantly, you can access Free TAFE even if you already hold a qualification, including university degrees. The program encourages upskilling and career changes by removing the previous “once-in-a-lifetime” limit for priority pathways, allowing students to undertake multiple fee-free courses within the same occupational area.
What Courses Are Included?
Free TAFE courses cover a broad spectrum of priority areas such as:
- Building and Construction (including pre-apprenticeships)
- Health and Community Services
- Information Technology and Cyber Security
- Agriculture and Horticulture
- Renewable Energy and Sustainability
- Business and Accounting
- Early Childhood Education
- Work Health and Safety
These courses are offered by a network of TAFE providers across Victoria, including Holmesglen Institute, Swinburne University’s vocational division, Victoria University, and others.
Why Choose TAFE in Victoria?
- Industry-Relevant Training: Courses are designed in partnership with employers to meet current workforce needs.
- Flexible Learning Options: Full-time, part-time, online, and blended modes accommodate different lifestyles.
- Pathways to Employment and Further Study: Many TAFE qualifications articulate into university degrees or apprenticeships.
- Government Support: Free TAFE and subsidized training reduce financial barriers.
- Strong Regional Presence: TAFE campuses are spread across metropolitan and regional Victoria, supporting local communities.
Victoria has a robust and accessible TAFE system that plays a central role in skills development and workforce readiness. With the Victorian Government’s Free TAFE initiative expanding in 2025, more Victorians than ever can access high-quality vocational education without worrying about tuition fees. Whether you’re starting a new career, upskilling, or retraining, TAFE in Victoria offers practical, affordable pathways to success.