Government Funded Courses
Government funding assists students by subsidising their tuition fees. Schemes vary from state to state, and students are required to meet eligibility requirements.
What is Government Funding?
Government funding assists students by subsidising their tuition fees. Schemes vary from state to state, and students are required to meet eligibility requirements.
The courses that get subsidised also happen to be the ones that are in high demand. This is because governments fund courses to meet skills shortages or sometimes to prepare for an increase in jobs in that area.
A country with a skilled workforce has a lot of advantages, so both state and federal governments work hard to make affordable training available to everyone. They do this by supporting students by providing funding for courses.
Not all courses are approved for government funding and sometimes a course in one state gets funding, while the same course in another state doesn’t. It might seem complex, but we’ve made it simple for you to find funding with our eligibility check.
Are Government Funded Courses Free?
There are a handful of priority fully funded government courses but places are limited and strict eligibility requirements apply. You may still need to pay fees such as student services fees or material fees.
Even if you can’t get a qualification for free, there are affordable ways to get qualified. Government funded courses cover a more extensive range of courses than the free priority course list and they are readily available. You can find a government funded course by completing the eligibility check.
VET Student Loans are also available for eligible students and help cover the cost of tuition fees. The loans are capped, meaning that students may have to pay gap amounts that are not covered by the loan. Students are required to repay these loans when they begin earning an income that is above the minimum repayment threshold.
How to get Government Funding for a Course
Each state has their own government funding scheme, and the course provider is required to apply and be approved for each funding scheme. Students must also meet eligibility requirements to gain access to these grants.
For you to receive government funding, you need to find a subsidised course by an approved provider and make sure you meet the eligibility requirements.
We’ve made it easy for you to check your government funded course eligibility. The eligibility check is designed to match your eligibility with a course that suits you best. It is the easiest way to find a government funded course.
Government Funding by State
JobTrainer ACT is an investment of more than $16.75 million in vocational education and training (VET) by the Australian and ACT state governments. This joint undertaking will allow more than 2,500 residents of the Australian Capital Territory to undertake free training.
Skills Checkpoint is a program offering career guidance and training options for older workers within the Australian Capital Territory. It’s designed for people aged over 45 and it helps workers to stay in their current job role, transition to a new role at their workplace or find a whole new career path.
User Choice Funding is a national funding scheme that subsidises the cost of an Australian Apprenticeship. The level of funding varies by state.
JobTrainer is an Australian government initiative to help young Australians get the job skills they need to find employment. Up to $2 billion is being allocated (across all states and territories, including New South Wales) for (VET) vocational education and training.
Skills Checkpoint is a program offering career guidance and training options for older workers within New South Wales. It’s designed for people aged over 45 and it helps workers to stay in their current job role, transition to a new role at their workplace or find a whole new career path.
Smart and Skilled allows eligible NSW students to enrol in subsidised qualifications from Certificate I through to an Advanced Diploma as well as all NSW apprenticeships and selected new entrant traineeships.
Thousands of free and low cost training courses are available to residents of the Northern Territory under JobTrainer NT — a joint investment by the Australian government and the NT state government.
Skills Checkpoint is a program offering career guidance and training options for older workers within the Northern Territory. It’s designed for people aged over 45 and it helps workers to stay in their current job role, transition to a new role at their workplace or find a whole new career path.
User Choice Funding is a national funding scheme that subsidises the cost of an apprenticeship or traineeship, and provides additional incentives for students in remote and regional areas.
The Certificate 3 Guarantee provides funding for a range of Certificate III qualifications as well as foundation skills training.
This funding scheme provides free training for students who are under 21 years of age in priority apprenticeship and traineeship programs.
Fee Free Training for Year 12 Graduates enables eligible Year 12 graduates to access fee-free apprenticeships, traineeships and training in high priority areas. The Queensland government provides subsidised training within the calendar year after graduating from high school.
The Higher Level Skills Program provides funding for Certificate IV or higher level qualifications within priority skill sets.
JobTrainer Queensland is an investment of more than $201 million into the vocational education and training (VET) sector in Queensland. This joint initiative between the Federal Government and the QLD state government will allow new workers, school leavers, apprentices, and trainees to access free and low cost training.
Skills Checkpoint is a program offering career guidance and training options for older workers within Queensland. It’s designed for people aged over 45 and it helps workers to stay in their current job role, transition to a new role at their workplace or find a whole new career path.
User Choice Funding is a national funding scheme that subsidises the cost of an apprenticeship or traineeship.
The South Australian state government (in partnership with the federal government) have allocated more than $88 million in new training opportunities for the residents of South Australia.
Skilling South Australia allows eligible SA students to enrol in subsidised qualifications from Certificate I through to an Advanced Diploma.
Skills Checkpoint is a program offering career guidance and training options for older workers within South Australia. It’s designed for people aged over 45 and it helps workers to stay in their current job role, transition to a new role at their workplace or find a whole new career path.
WorkReady is the funding and incentive program in South Australia for Vocational Education and Training (VET). WorkReady provides training and employment opportunities for disadvantaged groups, strategic industries and regional locations.
JobTrainer TAS is a joint undertaking by the State government of Tasmania and the Federal Government. Together they are providing $21.04 million for new VET (vocational education and training) opportunities for the citizens of Tasmania.
Skills Checkpoint is a program offering career guidance and training options for older workers within Tasmania. It’s designed for people aged over 45 and it helps workers to stay in their current job role, transition to a new role at their workplace or find a whole new career path.
Skills Tasmania is a state government program that helps the citizens of Tasmania access subsidised qualifications and the vocational training that leads to actual jobs and business opportunities.
Free TAFE is a government initiative aimed at providing free training in selected courses to help people gain the skills they need to secure a job. It offers a range of qualifications in industries such as health, construction, and technology, with the goal of reducing the cost of education and increasing job opportunities.
JobTrainer VIC is an investment in the vocational education and training (VET) of Victorian workers, school leavers, apprentices, and trainees. It’s a joint undertaking by the Australian and state government of Victoria allowing residents to enrol in free and low cost training.
Skills Checkpoint is a program offering career guidance and training options for older workers within Victoria. It’s designed for people aged over 45 and it helps workers to stay in their current job role, transition to a new role at their workplace or find a whole new career path.
Skills First allows eligible VIC students to enrol in subsidised qualifications from Certificate I through to an Advanced Diploma.
Jobs and Skills allows eligible WA students to enrol a range of training options including apprenticeships, traineeships, and industry qualifications.
JobTrainer Western Australia is a joint investment by the Australian government and the WA state government into the vocational education and training (VET) sector. Residents of Western Australia share in $104 million of new training opportunities from January 2021.
The Lower Fees, Local Skills program is an initiative of the Western Australian Government and the Department of Training and Workforce Development. Through this program, the state government of WA is heavily subsidising VET training courses in job growth areas and industry sectors that play an important role in diversifying the economy of WA.
Skills Checkpoint is a program offering career guidance and training options for older workers within Western Australia. It’s designed for people aged over 45 and it helps workers to stay in their current job role, transition to a new role at their workplace or find a whole new career path.
Popular Government Funded Courses
HLT33115
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Possible job outcomes:
Hospital Attendant
Allied Health Assistant
Patient Services Assistant
Ward Assistant
Nursing Assistant
Patient Care Assistant
Operating Theatre Technician
A Certificate III in Health Services Assistance HLT33115 is a tailored for students needing the practical skills to assist with nursing work in an acute care environment. Students learn the fundamentals of working within the Australian Health System, transporting and assisting patients in acute care, as well as first aid.
The Certificate III in Health Services Assistance HLT33115 is a nationally recognised training qualification and part of the official Health Training Package. Learn more.
CPP20218
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Security Guard
CCTV Operator
Security Officer
Become a licensed security guard (unarmed) with the Certificate II in Security Operations (CPP20218). You will learn how to provide security services for a range of clients while protecting yourself, patrons, and the general public. The course covers: first aid, basic self defence, screening people and personal effects, conducting patrols, crowd control, managing intoxicated people, removing persons from premises.
Enquire now for enrolment opportunities in your state or territory. Learn more.
CHC43315
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Social Worker
Peer Support Worker
Support Worker
Outreach Worker
Mental Health Worker
Family Support Worker
The Certificate IV in Mental Health (CHC43315) is for students wanting to work or volunteer providing support to people affected by mental illness or have a psychiatric disability. Students complete 15 units which focus heavily on foundation interpersonal skills such as building relationships, working collaboratively, and working with diverse cultural groups. Additionally, students graduate with practical skills and knowledge in trauma informed care, drug and alcohol issues affecting mental health and staying safe at work. To graduate and receive the qualification, each student must complete at least 80 hours of relevant work.
The Certificate IV in Mental Health (CHC43315) is a nationally recognised training qualification and part of the official Community Services Training Package. Learn more.
CHC30121
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Family Day Care Educator
Childcare Assistant
Early Childhood Educator
Nanny
The CHC30121 Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care is for students seeking roles in a range of early childhood education settings, working within the requirements of the Education and Care Services National Regulations and the National Quality Standard. Students gain a range of knowledge and skills including caring for children, developing relationships with babies and toddlers, keeping children safe as well as supporting children’s play and learning. Learn more.
BSB30120
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Customer Service Representative
Data Entry Clerk
Administration Officer
Executive Assistant
Receptionist
Office Assistant
Personal Assistant
Payroll Clerk
Accounts Clerk
Appointment Setter
Operations Coordinator
Area Manager
Administration Manager
Regional Manager
Business Administrator
School Administration Officer
Scheduler
Administrative Assistant
The BSB30120 Certificate III in Business prepares you for an administrative role. You’ll gain essential communication and teamwork skills, then specialise in an area that supports your career aspirations. Specialty areas include: technology and IT, business competence, teamwork and relationships, customer service, accounts, medical administration, records management. Enquire now for the full list of elective choices, entry requirements, and available enrolment dates. Learn more.
CHC53315
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Possible job outcomes:
Social Worker
Support Worker
Outreach Worker
Peer Support Worker
Family Support Worker
Mental Health Worker
A Diploma of Mental Health CHC53315 is perfect for students seeking careers as community services workers supporting people with mental health issues. Students learn about working collaboratively, maintaining personal safety, helping people affected by drugs and alcohol, facilitating recovery, as well as managing grief and trauma.
The Diploma of Mental Health CHC53315 is a nationally recognised training qualification and part of the official Community Services Training Package. Learn more.
HLT37215
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Possible job outcomes:
Phlebotomist
Pathology Collector
The Certificate III in Pathology Collection (HLT37215) is a hands-on qualification that prepares you for work in a pathology unit or testing centre. Over 6 months you will learn how to collect blood and other pathology samples — then prepare, record and despatch for testing. Choose electives from electrocardiography (ECG), first aid, recognising healthy body systems, drug and abuse testing.
Enquire now for the list of study units and electives, plus your eligibility for government funded training. Learn more.
CHC40221
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Education Assistant
Teacher Assistant
Teacher Aide
Get at job as a Teacher Aide at Australian high schools and primary schools with the CHC40221 - Certificate IV in School Based Education Support. This nationally recognised qualification will teach you how to support qualified teachers in the classroom, providing supervision and one-to-one student support in English, reading and maths. The course covers: communicating with teachers and parents, assisting students with disabilities, understanding the unique needs of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students, supervising students outside the classroom, and much more. This course also has scope to specialise in eLearning and online support. Enquire now for the list of entry requirements, Teacher Aide career outcomes, and available enrolment dates. Learn more.
BSB40520
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Office Manager
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Supervisor
Team Administrator
Assistant Manager
Get the skills you need to become a successful workplace leader with the BSB40520 Certificate IV in Leadership and Management. This nationally recognised qualification covers the essential aspects of team leadership, workplace relationships, and operations management — then you choose electives that support your actual job role (eg, WHS and risk management, personal productivity, financial reporting, workplace diversity). You’ll graduate a more effective communicator with an arsenal of administration, IT, and digital work skills.
Enquire now for the list of study units and upcoming enrolment dates. Learn more.
BSB41419
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Possible job outcomes:
Work Health and Safety Officer
The BSB41419 - Certificate IV in Work Health and Safety is a Nationally Recognised Training (NRT) qualification. Please make an enquiry to find out more about the course such as government funding options, study modes and duration. Learn more.
HLT37315
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Possible job outcomes:
Medical Administrator
Clinic Administrator
Practice Manager
Patient Liaison Officer
Dental Receptionist
Ward Clerk
Medical Receptionist
Admissions Clerk
Medical Secretary
Therapy Aide
A Certificate III in Health Administration is suitable for students already working as medical receptionists, admissions clerk or wards clerks or individuals seeking roles in hospitals, community health centres or private practices. Students will gain skills important skills including understanding and applying medical terminology, following organisational infection prevention and control procedures as well as working with a diverse range of people. Learn more.
BSB50420
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Possible job outcomes:
Project Coordinator
Team Leader
Supervisor
Office Manager
Assistant Manager
The BSB50420 Diploma of Leadership and Management is for the next generation of business leaders who need highly developed emotional intelligence and the ability to communicate with influence. This nationally recognised diploma has a heavy focus on interpersonal skills and relationship building, while teaching you how to develop administrative systems, operational plans, budgets, policy and compliance documents. Choose electives in areas that support your job role: finance, administration, risk management, big data, industrial relations, customer service.
Enquire now for the list of study units, elective choices, and upcoming enrolment dates. Learn more.
BSB50820
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Possible job outcomes:
Project Administrator
Project Manager
Scheduler
Project Officer
Please note - this is not a building related course.
The BSB50820 Diploma of Project Management is for dedicated project managers and team leaders who have been assigned to a major project. You will learn how to scope and cost out a project, then manage the budget, quality, resources and work teams. Choose electives that support your job role including: communication, compliance and governance, critical thinking, team leadership, procurement, ICT and information systems.
Enquire now for the full list of elective choices, study outcomes, and enrolment opportunities. Learn more.
HLT54121
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Possible job outcomes:
Enrolled Nurse
Rehabilitation Nurse
Mental Health Nurse
Aged Care Nurse
Become an enrolled nurse with the HLT54121 Diploma of Nursing. This nationally recognised diploma is part of the enrolled nurse registration requirements of the Nursing and Midwifery Board of Australia (NMBA). The course covers: working as a nurse within the Australian healthcare system, performing clinical assessment of patients, principles of wound management, administering medicines and intravenous therapy, nursing patients with mental health issues, monitoring acute and chronic health conditions, palliative care approaches, infection controls, ethics and legalities of nursing. Enquire now for the list of entry requirements, nursing career outcomes, and upcoming enrolment dates.
PLEASE NOTE: if you are seeking registration with NMBA always check with your course provider before enrolment to ensure the correct electives are selected. Learn more.
FNS40222
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Possible job outcomes:
Accounts Officer
Accounts Receivable Officer
Bookkeeper
Payroll Officer
Assistant Accountant
Become a registered BAS Agent with the FNS40222 Certificate IV in Accounting and Bookkeeping. This nationally recognised qualification meets the requirements of the Tax Practitioner’s Board (TPB) and will teach you how to prepare and lodge business activity statements (BAS) and take care of bookkeeping functions for Australian business clients. The course covers: designing and using spreadsheets, setting up computerised accounting systems, processing financial transactions, preparing reports and financial statements, assisting clients with BAS lodgement and tax instalments. Enquire now for the full list of entry requirements, TPB registration competencies, and upcoming enrolment opportunities near you.
PLEASE NOTE: If you are seeking registration with the Tax Practitioner’s Board (TPB), always contact your training provider before enrolling to ensure you select the correct study units. Learn more.
CHC51015
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Possible job outcomes:
Family Counsellor
Youth Counsellor
Marriage Counsellor
Relationship Counsellor
Counsellor
Family Support Worker
Mental Health Worker
Student Counsellor
The Diploma of Counselling is suitable for students seeking careers as counsellors working with clients on personal and psychological issues using established counselling modalities. Students graduate ready to work in supported counselling roles in established agencies rather than in independent practice. Students will learn about communication, micro-counselling and interviewing skills and how to draw on varied counselling therapies to assist clients. Learn more.
CHC32015
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Possible job outcomes:
Support Worker
Volunteer Coordinator
Youth Support Worker
Youth Case Worker
The Certificate III in Community Services (CHC32015) is excellent for students seeking careers as community services workers. Students begin with the foundation skills essential for maintaining personal safety while helping others. They learn how to manage personal stress, and communicate with clients from a diverse range of cultural backgrounds. Students are then able to choose electives to pursue career interests such as working with the elderly, working with children and young people, drugs and alcohol and mental health.
The Certificate III in Community Services (CHC32015) is a nationally recognised training qualification and part of the official Community Services Training Package. Learn more.
CHC50121
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Possible job outcomes:
Childcare Centre Manager
Early Childhood Educator
Childcare Assistant
Room Assistant
Service Director
Childcare Director
Lead Educator
A CHC50121 Diploma of Early Childhood Education & Care will suit students desiring careers as early childhood educators responsible for designing and implementing curriculum. They work to implement an approved learning framework within the requirements of the Education and Care Services National Regulations and the National Quality Standard. Students will learn how to work in partnership with families to provide appropriate education and care for children, nurture creativity in children as well as implement strategies for the inclusion of all children. Learn more.
CPC40120
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Possible job outcomes:
Building Estimator
Construction Project Manager
Site Foreman
Construction Supervisor
Construction Estimator
Building Supervisor
Become a licensed builder with the CPC40120 Certificate IV in Building and Construction (Building). This nationally recognised qualification is the minimum training requirement for builders working on domestic premises in Australia. The course covers: understanding building codes and standards, managing WHS on a construction site, reading and interpreting plans and specifications, applying site surveys, managing site communication and admin, procuring construction materials, managing construction quality, and more. Enquire now for entry requirements, licensing outcomes, and upcoming enrolment dates.
PLEASE NOTE: requirements for builder’s licences vary by state and territory. Always check the requirements before enrolling in any training course. Learn more.
CPP41419
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Possible job outcomes:
Real Estate Assistant
Tenancy Officer
Property Manager
Real Estate Agent
Real Estate Agency Manager
Leasing Consultant
Leasing Officer
Leasing Agent
Property Developer
Get your real estate licence with the CPP41419 Certificate IV in Real Estate Practice. This nationally recognised qualification has 12 different specialisations including residential sales, property management, auctioneering, stock and station, commercial sales and leasing, business broking, and office support. The course covers: real estate ethical practice, running a real estate agency, property law, marketing, trust accounting, and more. Enquire now for the full list of specialisations, licensing outcomes, and upcoming enrolment dates. Learn more.