Release type: Media Release

Date:

$12m boost to VET workforce - a 'game changer' for Australia's future

Ministers:

The Hon Andrew Giles MP
Minister for Skills and Training

The Albanese Labor Government is delivering a significant boost to the Vocational Education and Training (VET) workforce, announcing a $12 million boost for skilled teachers and trainers to mark the start of National Skills Week 2024.

The funding will enable Jobs and Skills Councils (JSCs) to better respond to workforce challenges in the VET sector across industries, including aged and disability care, energy and renewables, and construction and manufacturing.

All 10 JSCs will receive funding to study workforce challenges and identify industry-led responses, in consultation with Jobs and Skills Australia and VET industry stakeholders.

9 out of 10 jobs created require post-compulsory qualifications – and almost half of these will be through vocational education and training. This year’s National Skills Week theme, ‘VET – It’s a Game Changer’ reflects the integral role that VET will play in Australia’s future, with Fee-Free TAFE at its heart.

The Government’s $12 million investment in the VET workforce will build on the Albanese Labor Government’s game-changing achievements in VET, including:

  • Helping 500,000 Australians enrol in Fee-Free TAFE delivering enormous cost of living relief for students with more than $500 million for an additional 320,000 places over the next 3 years
  • Delivering up to $30 billion through the National Skills Agreement, working together with the states and territories to expand and strengthen VET and meet priority skills needs
  • Establishing a national network of training for critical and emerging industries through TAFE Centres of Excellence across the country, including in Western Australia and Queensland
  • Investing $600 million to bolster skills growth and development in the clean energy, construction, and manufacturing sectors
  • Supporting VET nursing students during work placements with more than $58 million towards a weekly cost of living payment through the Commonwealth Prac Payment system

Quotes attributable to the Minister for Skills and Training, the Hon Andrew Giles MP:

“The Albanese Labor Governments believes that every Australian should have the opportunity to get ahead, without adding to cost of living pressures. A strong VET sector, with TAFE at its heart is a key part of this.

“This National Skills Week, we’re announcing a $12 million to boost the VET workforce in key areas of training like construction, care and climate.

“VET teachers, trainers and assessors play such an important role in ensuring Australia has the skills we need to thrive.

“VET is a game-changer for Australia – for young Aussies wanting to get ahead, and for unlocking future growth for businesses.”