Release type: Media Release

Date:

Celebrating what makes TAFE special this National TAFE Day

Ministers:

The Hon Andrew Giles MP
Minister for Skills and Training

This National TAFE Day, the Albanese Government is highlighting the important role TAFE plays in shaping our workforce, supporting students and strengthening communities.

TAFE delivers the skills and training needed to grow the Australian economy – caring for Australians, building the homes we need, creating a Future Made in Australia, and turning around skills shortages.

TAFEs are embedded in our communities, responsible for delivering training and skilling Australians in more than 300 locations across metropolitan, regional and rural Australia.

From school leavers to career changers, TAFE opens doors to opportunity and lifelong learning – and TAFE teachers are essential to making this happen.

To support and grow the TAFE teacher workforce, the Albanese Government together with states and territories is delivering up to $170 million over five years to strengthen the VET workforce, as part of the $30 billion National Skills Agreement (NSA).

The VET Workforce Blueprint recognises that a skilled and sustainable VET workforce is critical to support the growing demand for skills in key sectors of the economy, and driving Australia’s productivity.

Through the NSA, the Albanese Government is also investing $325 million to establish TAFE Centres of Excellence, and $155 million for a National TAFE Network to enhance collaboration and innovation across the country.

The Albanese Government’s commitment to TAFE is also backed by:

  • $1.5 billion for Free TAFE 2023-26, jointly funded with states and territories, with over 650,000 enrolments since January 2023 and more than 170,000 course completions;
  • $1.6 billion to support making Free TAFE permanent from 2027 with least 100,000 places annually;
  • $50 million for the TAFE Technology Fund, upgrading facilities nationwide;
  • $31 million for Mobile TAFE, to meet local skills needs for remote First Nations communities; and
  • $58 million for VET nursing students, supporting placements through the Commonwealth Prac Payment system.

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

“TAFE sits at the heart of our vocational education and training system, offering high-quality, accessible education that equips Australians with the skills they need for secure, well-paid jobs.

“I’m proud to be celebrating National TAFE Day and want to thank all the TAFE teachers, trainers and support staff – your commitment to your work and your students is incredible.

“This work is changing the lives of Australians and building a stronger, fairer and more skilled nation.”

ENDS