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
Looking to enhance your skills for better employment opportunities? If you're in the Australian Capital Territory (ACT), you might be eligible for complimentary training.
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.
User Choice Funding is a national funding scheme that subsidises the cost of an Australian Apprenticeship. The level of funding varies by state.
Need the skills to get a job or follow your career passion? If you live in New South Wales (NSW) you might be eligible for free training.
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.
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.
Seeking to upgrade your skills for a fulfilling career? Residents in the Northern Territory (NT) might have access to free vocational training.
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.
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.
Fee-Free TAFE (QLD) is a state government initiative that offers eligible Queenslanders the chance to attain a fully accredited diploma, certificate qualification, or short course at zero cost.
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.
User Choice Funding is a national funding scheme that subsidises the cost of an apprenticeship or traineeship.
Looking to upgrade your skillset and propel your career forward? If you're in South Australia (SA), you might have the opportunity to access free training.
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.
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.
Ready to enhance your skills and advance your career? If you're in Tasmania (TAS), you might be in luck with access to free training.
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 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.
Fee-Free TAFE is a Victorian 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 First allows eligible VIC students to enrol in subsidised qualifications from Certificate I through to an Advanced Diploma.
Seeking to boost your skillset and explore new career opportunities? If you're in Western Australia (WA), you might have the chance to benefit from free training.
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.
Popular Government Funded Courses
HLT33115
Online, On Campus, Distance, Workplace
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Possible job outcomes:
Nursing Assistant
Patient Care Assistant
Operating Theatre Technician
Ward Assistant
Patient Services Assistant
Allied Health Assistant
Hospital Attendant
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..
Average duration: 6 months.
CPP20218
Online, On Campus
More info
Possible job outcomes:
CCTV Operator
Security Guard
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..
Average duration: 3 weeks.
CHC33021
Online, On Campus
More info
Possible job outcomes:
Trainee Support Worker
Home Care Assistance Worker
Disability Support Worker
Community Care Worker
Residential Care Worker
Personal Carer
Aged Care Worker
Aboriginal Disability Worker
Home Carer
The Certificate III in Individual Support (Disability) equips individuals with the skills to work in the disability sector, including person-centered care, communication, safety procedures, promoting independence, and community participation. This course includes supervised work placements. On completion, graduates can work as disability support workers in various settings..
Average duration: 12 months.
HLT37215
Online, On Campus, Workplace
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Possible job outcomes:
Pathology Collector
Phlebotomist
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..
Average duration: 6 months.
CHC43315
Online, On Campus, Distance, Workplace
More info
Possible job outcomes:
Family Support Worker
Mental Health Worker
Outreach Worker
Social Worker
Support Worker
Peer Support Worker
Mental Health Social Worker
Mental Health Counsellor
Mental Health Clinician
Mental Health Practitioner
Crisis 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..
Average duration: 12 months.
CHC43121
Online, On Campus, Distance, Workplace
More info
Possible job outcomes:
Aboriginal Disability Worker
Disability Service Officer
Disability Team Leader
Disability Support Worker
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.
Entry Requirements
Completion of: CHC33021 Certificate III in Individual Support (Disability)
OR
Completion of: CHC33015 Certificate III in Individual Support (Disability)
OR
Completion of: CHC30408 Certificate III in Disability PLUS the CHCSS00125 Entry to Certificate IV in Disability Support Skill Set..
Average duration: 12 months.
CHC30121
Online, On Campus, Distance, Workplace
More info
Possible job outcomes:
Family Day Care Educator
Childcare Assistant
Nanny
Early Childhood Educator
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..
Average duration: 12 months.
CPP41419
Online, On Campus, Workplace
More info
Possible job outcomes:
Real Estate Agency Manager
Property Manager
Real Estate Agent
Tenancy Officer
Property Developer
Real Estate Assistant
Leasing Agent
Leasing Officer
Leasing Consultant
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..
Average duration: 6 months.
FNS40222
Online, On Campus, Workplace
More info
Possible job outcomes:
Payroll Officer
Assistant Accountant
Accounts Officer
Accounts Clerk
Bookkeeper
Accounts Receivable Officer
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..
Average duration: 12 months.
CHC52021
Online, On Campus, Workplace
More info
Possible job outcomes:
Intake Worker
Aboriginal Community Care Worker
Senior Support Worker
Community Development Worker
Community Corrections Officer
Social Worker
Welfare Worker
Outreach Worker
Support Worker
Youth Justice Officer
Family Support Worker
Housing Officer
The 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..
Average duration: 12 months.
HLT54121
Online, On Campus
More info
Possible job outcomes:
Enrolled Nurse
Aged Care Nurse
Aboriginal Health Worker
Rehabilitation Nurse
Mental Health Nurse
Midwife
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..
Average duration: 24 months.
CHC40221
Online, On Campus, Distance, Workplace
More info
Possible job outcomes:
Learning Support Officer
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..
Average duration: 6 months.
CHC53315
Online, On Campus, Distance, Workplace
More info
Possible job outcomes:
Mental Health Clinician
Mental Health Practitioner
Mental Health Counsellor
Crisis Support Worker
Mental Health Social Worker
Family Support Worker
Mental Health Worker
Peer Support Worker
Outreach Worker
Social Worker
Support 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..
Average duration: 12 months.
FNS40821
Online, On Campus
More info
Possible job outcomes:
Financial Planner
Mortgage Broker
Financial Advisor
Credit Officer
Lending Officer
Small Business Financial Advisor
Insurance Consultant
Insurance Broker
Become a professional mortgage broker with the FNS40821 Certificate IV in Finance and Mortgage Broking. This nationally recognised qualification meets the ASIC licensing requirements for mortgage brokers and will teach you how to identify your client’s needs and present them with range of broking options. The course also covers: professional practice and financial services code of conduct, preparing loan applications, developing knowledge of financial products and services, building client relationships, and more. Enquire now for entry requirements, ASIC licensing outcomes, and upcoming enrolment dates near you.
PLEASE NOTE: if you are wanting to become a licensed mortgage broker check with your course provider before enrolment to ensure you have selected the correct elective units..
Average duration: 6 months.
BSB30120
Online, On Campus, Distance, Workplace
More info
Possible job outcomes:
Administrative Assistant
Scheduler
Customer Service Representative
Office Assistant
Administration Officer
Data Entry Clerk
Receptionist
Personal Assistant
Executive Assistant
Payroll Clerk
Accounts Clerk
Appointment Setter
Operations Coordinator
Area Manager
Administration Manager
Regional Manager
Business Administrator
School Administration Officer
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..
Average duration: 12 months.
BSB40520
Online, On Campus, Distance, Workplace
More info
Possible job outcomes:
Project Coordinator
General Manager
Supervisor
Team Leader
Office Manager
Assistant Manager
Team Administrator
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..
Average duration: 12 months.
CHC43415
Online, On Campus, Workplace
More info
Possible job outcomes:
Lifestyle Coordinator
Diversional Therapy Assistant
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..
Average duration: 12 months.
BSB41419
Online, On Campus, Distance, Workplace
More info
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..
Average duration: 12 months.
SHB30221
Online, On Campus, Workplace
More info
Possible job outcomes:
Eyelash and Eyebrow Technician
Retail Assistant
Makeup Artist
Do you love make-up and cosmetics? With the nationally recognised SHB30221 Certificate III in Make-Up you could become a specialist make-up artist and work in beauty salons, day spas, or even film and TV. The course delivers specialist skills in creative make-up design for events, special occasions and photography, but you can also choose electives that will broaden your service offerings. Options include: spray tanning, waxing, recommending and selling beauty products, lash and brow treatments, creating a business plan, setting up a beauty business, and more. Enquire now for the full list of study units, availability of specialist electives, and upcoming course enrolment dates..
Average duration: 6 months.
CHC32015
Online, On Campus, Workplace
More info
Possible job outcomes:
Volunteer Coordinator
Support Worker
Youth Support Worker
Youth Case Worker
Aboriginal Community Care 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..
Average duration: 12 months.