What is Fee-Free TAFE funding?
Fee-Free TAFE (SA) is a state government initiative, providing eligible South Australians the chance to attain a fully accredited diploma, certificate qualification, or short course at no expense.
The program strategically targets sectors with skill shortages, thereby enhancing job prospects for participants. It prioritizes Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, unpaid carers, young people, women, individuals with disabilities, and the unemployed.
A wide range of qualifications is on offer, particularly in fields where skilled workers are in high demand, such as aged care, hospitality, nursing and healthcare, information technology, construction, agriculture, childcare, disability support, and manufacturing.
To be eligible for the Fee-Free TAFE (SA) program, you need to be at least 15 years old, live or work in South Australia, be an Australian citizen or permanent resident, or hold a valid visa, and not be enrolled in school.
Training opportunities are available not just at TAFE institutes but also through several approved Registered Training Organisations (RTOs) that are part of this initiative across the state.
Eligibility criteria
You must meet ONE of the following requirements:
- be a First Nations Australian; OR
- be 17-24 years of age; OR
- be unemployed or receiving income support payments; OR
- be an unpaid carer; OR
- be a person who identifies as female and is facing economic insecurity; OR
- be a person who identifies as female and is undertaking study in non-traditional fields; OR
- be a person with a disability, including autism and neurodivergence.
- be a certain category of visa holder.
As well as ALL of the following requirements:
- be 16 years of age or older
- not enrolled at any school
- be an Australian or New Zealand citizen, permanent Australian resident or an eligible VISA holder
- live or work in SA
Popular Fee-Free TAFE courses
Enquire with a course provider to confirm availability of Fee-Free TAFE funded places and eligibility requirements.
Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care
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.
- There are no mandated entry requirements.
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.
- There are no mandated entry requirements.
Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care
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.
- Completed Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care or equivalent qualifications
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.
- Completed Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care or equivalent qualifications
Certificate III in Pathology Collection
The HLT37215 Certificate III in Pathology Collection 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.
- There are no mandated entry requirements.
The HLT37215 Certificate III in Pathology Collection 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.
- There are no mandated entry requirements.
Certificate IV in Mental Health
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.
- There are no mandated entry requirements.
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.
- There are no mandated entry requirements.
Diploma of Community Services
The CHC52021 Diploma of Community Services is a nationally recognized qualification that prepares students for leadership roles in the community services sector. Students will develop advanced skills in advocacy, social justice, policy development, and program design. Graduates can work in leadership roles, such as community services manager, program manager, or social policy analyst, in government and non-government organizations.
- There are no mandated entry requirements.
The CHC52021 Diploma of Community Services is a nationally recognized qualification that prepares students for leadership roles in the community services sector. Students will develop advanced skills in advocacy, social justice, policy development, and program design. Graduates can work in leadership roles, such as community services manager, program manager, or social policy analyst, in government and non-government organizations.
- There are no mandated entry requirements.
Certificate IV in Building and Construction (Building)
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.
- There are no mandated entry requirements.
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.
- There are no mandated entry requirements.
Certificate IV in Leisure and Health
A Certificate IV in Leisure and Health CHC43415 is great for students needing the skills to design and implement leisure activities and health programs. And our course providers have structured the electives in this qualification so students gain specialised skills for working with elderly clients at home or in Australian aged care facilities. The Certificate IV in Leisure and Health CHC43415 is a nationally recognised training qualification and part of the official Community Services Training Package.
- There are no mandated entry requirements.
A Certificate IV in Leisure and Health CHC43415 is great for students needing the skills to design and implement leisure activities and health programs. And our course providers have structured the electives in this qualification so students gain specialised skills for working with elderly clients at home or in Australian aged care facilities. The Certificate IV in Leisure and Health CHC43415 is a nationally recognised training qualification and part of the official Community Services Training Package.
- There are no mandated entry requirements.
Diploma of Nursing
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.
- There are no mandated entry requirements.
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.
- There are no mandated entry requirements.
Certificate IV in Disability Support
Level-up your career in disability support services with the CHC43121 Certificate IV in Disability Support. This nationally recognised qualification will teach you how to provide person-centred services to people with disabilities and mental health issues. The course covers: on-the-job safety, client rights and independence, facilitating community participation and social inclusion, assisting with movement, transporting individuals, visiting client residences, and much more. Enquire now for entry requirements, disability support career outcomes, and upcoming enrolment opportunities near you.
- Completed Certificate III in Individual Support (Disability) or equivalent qualifications OR
- Completed CHC30408 Certificate III in Disability PLUS the CHCSS00125 Entry to Certificate IV in Disability Support Skill Set.
Level-up your career in disability support services with the CHC43121 Certificate IV in Disability Support. This nationally recognised qualification will teach you how to provide person-centred services to people with disabilities and mental health issues. The course covers: on-the-job safety, client rights and independence, facilitating community participation and social inclusion, assisting with movement, transporting individuals, visiting client residences, and much more. Enquire now for entry requirements, disability support career outcomes, and upcoming enrolment opportunities near you.
- Completed Certificate III in Individual Support (Disability) or equivalent qualifications OR
- Completed CHC30408 Certificate III in Disability PLUS the CHCSS00125 Entry to Certificate IV in Disability Support Skill Set.
Certificate IV in Community Services
The Certificate IV in Community Services is a nationally recognized qualification that prepares students for a career in the community services sector. You will develop skills in community development, case management, diversity, and ethics. Gain hands-on experience through supervised work placements. Graduates can work in various roles, such as community service worker, case manager, and program coordinator in government and non-government organizations.
- There are no mandated entry requirements.
The Certificate IV in Community Services is a nationally recognized qualification that prepares students for a career in the community services sector. You will develop skills in community development, case management, diversity, and ethics. Gain hands-on experience through supervised work placements. Graduates can work in various roles, such as community service worker, case manager, and program coordinator in government and non-government organizations.
- There are no mandated entry requirements.
Cake and Pastry baking for Bread Bakers Skill Set
The FBPSS00003 Cake and Pastry Baking for Bread Bakers Skill Set provides the basic skills and knowledge to start a career in the baking industry. It covers the preparation of sponge cakes, birthday cakes, wedding cakes, puddings, biscuits, macarons, pies, sweet tarts, eclairs, croissants, Danish pastries, and brioche. This skill set equips bread bakers with the expertise needed to bake various cake and pastry products. Enquire now for a full list of entry requirements and available enrolment dates.
- There are no mandated entry requirements.
The FBPSS00003 Cake and Pastry Baking for Bread Bakers Skill Set provides the basic skills and knowledge to start a career in the baking industry. It covers the preparation of sponge cakes, birthday cakes, wedding cakes, puddings, biscuits, macarons, pies, sweet tarts, eclairs, croissants, Danish pastries, and brioche. This skill set equips bread bakers with the expertise needed to bake various cake and pastry products. Enquire now for a full list of entry requirements and available enrolment dates.
- There are no mandated entry requirements.
Certificate IV in Information Technology (Networking)
The ICT40120 Certificate IV in Information Technology (Networking) is for IT technicians and programmers wanting to specialise in IT networks. Over 12-18 months of study you will learn the essentials of network scripting and programming, cyber security, and ICT fault resolution — as well as how to build LANS and enterprise wireless networks. The course also covers desktop environments, software deployment, and network documentation. Enquire now for the full list of study units, entry requirements, and enrolment centres near you.
- There are no mandated entry requirements.
The ICT40120 Certificate IV in Information Technology (Networking) is for IT technicians and programmers wanting to specialise in IT networks. Over 12-18 months of study you will learn the essentials of network scripting and programming, cyber security, and ICT fault resolution — as well as how to build LANS and enterprise wireless networks. The course also covers desktop environments, software deployment, and network documentation. Enquire now for the full list of study units, entry requirements, and enrolment centres near you.
- There are no mandated entry requirements.
Certificate III in Patisserie
Become a qualified pastry chef with the SIT31021 Certificate III in Patisserie. With this fantastic qualification you’ll have the skills to create fantastic bread and yeast products as well as specialist cakes, pastries, petit fours, biscuits and cookies, confectionary, and desserts. The course also covers: perishable stock control, modern cooking methods, kitchen hygiene and safety, food preparation equipment, planning and costing recipes. Enquire now for the full list of entry requirements, patisserie competencies, and enrolment opportunities in your area.
- There are no mandated entry requirements.
Become a qualified pastry chef with the SIT31021 Certificate III in Patisserie. With this fantastic qualification you’ll have the skills to create fantastic bread and yeast products as well as specialist cakes, pastries, petit fours, biscuits and cookies, confectionary, and desserts. The course also covers: perishable stock control, modern cooking methods, kitchen hygiene and safety, food preparation equipment, planning and costing recipes. Enquire now for the full list of entry requirements, patisserie competencies, and enrolment opportunities in your area.
- There are no mandated entry requirements.
Certificate IV in Information Technology (Programming)
Become an expert coder with the ICT40120 Certificate IV in Information Technology (Programming). This nationally recognised qualification will teach you how to write scripts for software applications, automate processes, and develop mobile apps in a range of different programming languages. Working with the latest technologies you’ll graduate a confident programmer ready for client work or part of the ICT team. Enquire now for the most up-to-date list of study units, course outcomes, and enrolment centres.
- There are no mandated entry requirements.
Become an expert coder with the ICT40120 Certificate IV in Information Technology (Programming). This nationally recognised qualification will teach you how to write scripts for software applications, automate processes, and develop mobile apps in a range of different programming languages. Working with the latest technologies you’ll graduate a confident programmer ready for client work or part of the ICT team. Enquire now for the most up-to-date list of study units, course outcomes, and enrolment centres.
- There are no mandated entry requirements.
Certificate III in Horticulture
The AHC30722 Certificate III in Horticulture offers a hands-on learning experience for aspiring horticulturists, covering a diverse range of topics such as plant care, landscaping, and sustainable gardening practices. This nationally recognized certificate program equips students with the practical skills and theoretical knowledge needed to succeed in the flourishing field of horticulture.
- There are no mandated entry requirements.
The AHC30722 Certificate III in Horticulture offers a hands-on learning experience for aspiring horticulturists, covering a diverse range of topics such as plant care, landscaping, and sustainable gardening practices. This nationally recognized certificate program equips students with the practical skills and theoretical knowledge needed to succeed in the flourishing field of horticulture.
- There are no mandated entry requirements.
Diploma of Building and Construction (Building)
A Diploma of Building and Construction can help you further your career in the building industry. You’ll develop your skills in construction management, including estimating costs, supervising projects and preparing contracts. Whether you work as a builder, a foreman or a building inspector, this course will give you the skills you need to take your work to a new level. The Diploma of Building and Construction covers a range of topics from structural principles to occupational health and safety. Course delivery will vary depending on your provider, but you might cover topics including monitoring costing systems, preparing tender documentation and selecting building contractors. Enquire now for a full list of study units, entry requirements and start dates.
- There are no mandated entry requirements.
A Diploma of Building and Construction can help you further your career in the building industry. You’ll develop your skills in construction management, including estimating costs, supervising projects and preparing contracts. Whether you work as a builder, a foreman or a building inspector, this course will give you the skills you need to take your work to a new level. The Diploma of Building and Construction covers a range of topics from structural principles to occupational health and safety. Course delivery will vary depending on your provider, but you might cover topics including monitoring costing systems, preparing tender documentation and selecting building contractors. Enquire now for a full list of study units, entry requirements and start dates.
- There are no mandated entry requirements.
Certificate IV in Building and Construction
A Certificate IV in Building and Construction is the qualification you need to further your construction career. This course is designed for people currently working as builders, including those who own their own building business. You’ll develop building management skills and learn to supervise and oversee construction projects. Whether you want to work as a construction manager or expand your building business, this course can provide the skills you need to succeed. The Certificate IV in Building and Construction covers a range of topics relevant to the building industry. Course delivery will vary depending on your provider, but you might cover subjects including applying building codes and standards, conducting on-site supervision of building projects and reading and interpreting plans and specifications. Enquire now for a full list of study units, entry requirements and start dates.
- There are no mandated entry requirements.
A Certificate IV in Building and Construction is the qualification you need to further your construction career. This course is designed for people currently working as builders, including those who own their own building business. You’ll develop building management skills and learn to supervise and oversee construction projects. Whether you want to work as a construction manager or expand your building business, this course can provide the skills you need to succeed. The Certificate IV in Building and Construction covers a range of topics relevant to the building industry. Course delivery will vary depending on your provider, but you might cover subjects including applying building codes and standards, conducting on-site supervision of building projects and reading and interpreting plans and specifications. Enquire now for a full list of study units, entry requirements and start dates.
- There are no mandated entry requirements.
Bread Baking for Pastry Cooks Skill Set
The FBPSS00002 Bread Baking for Pastry Cooks Skill Set provides basic skills and knowledge for starting a career in the bread baking industry. It covers the preparation of sweet yeast products like croissants and brioche, savoury breads, and artisan bread products including sourdough. This skill set equips pastry cooks with the necessary expertise to bake a variety of bread products. Enquire now for a full list of entry requirements and available enrolment dates.
- There are no mandated entry requirements.
The FBPSS00002 Bread Baking for Pastry Cooks Skill Set provides basic skills and knowledge for starting a career in the bread baking industry. It covers the preparation of sweet yeast products like croissants and brioche, savoury breads, and artisan bread products including sourdough. This skill set equips pastry cooks with the necessary expertise to bake a variety of bread products. Enquire now for a full list of entry requirements and available enrolment dates.
- There are no mandated entry requirements.
Certificate IV in Kitchen Management
Become a qualified chef and gain additional leadership skills with the SIT40521 Certificate IV in Kitchen Management. This nationally recognised qualification will take you beyond your chef’s qualification by teaching you how to roster and manage the entire kitchen staff. The course delivers all the skills you need to work as a chef — cooking contemporary dishes, operating a fully functional kitchen, and implementing a food safety program. Choose specialist electives in cookery and catering, Asian cooking, patisserie, or food and beverage. Enquire now for the full list of specialisation units (and their availability), commercial chef career outcomes, and enrolment centres near you.
- There are no mandated entry requirements.
Become a qualified chef and gain additional leadership skills with the SIT40521 Certificate IV in Kitchen Management. This nationally recognised qualification will take you beyond your chef’s qualification by teaching you how to roster and manage the entire kitchen staff. The course delivers all the skills you need to work as a chef — cooking contemporary dishes, operating a fully functional kitchen, and implementing a food safety program. Choose specialist electives in cookery and catering, Asian cooking, patisserie, or food and beverage. Enquire now for the full list of specialisation units (and their availability), commercial chef career outcomes, and enrolment centres near you.
- There are no mandated entry requirements.
Certificate IV in Information Technology (Web Development)
Become a professional web developer with the ICT40120 Certificate IV in Information Technology (Web Development). This nationally recognised qualification will teach you how to design a range of web layouts then transfer the content to client websites. The course also covers essential programming, SEO, web hosting, and creating markup language documents. Enquire now for the list of entry requirements, study units, and enrolment centres.
- There are no mandated entry requirements.
Become a professional web developer with the ICT40120 Certificate IV in Information Technology (Web Development). This nationally recognised qualification will teach you how to design a range of web layouts then transfer the content to client websites. The course also covers essential programming, SEO, web hosting, and creating markup language documents. Enquire now for the list of entry requirements, study units, and enrolment centres.
- There are no mandated entry requirements.