Tasmanian students set to benefit from $25 million skills funding boost

The Albanese and Rockliff Governments have today announced $25.8 million in joint funding to strengthen vocational education and training (VET) across Tasmania, ensuring Tasmanians get the support they need to complete their training and gain qualifications.

Delivered under the National Skills Agreement (NSA), the four initiatives will provide support across improved completions, Closing the Gap, foundation skills and boosting the VET workforce.

These initiatives will help to ensure all Tasmanians can play a part in building the state’s skilled workforce and meet the needs of the local economy and industry.

Under the agreement, both Governments are contributing a combined $25.8 million over four years, comprising:

• $15.8 million to support students and improve training completion rates. This includes a new Pathways Partnership Program to improve transitions between school-based VET and TasTAFE, and a mentoring program to provide wraparound support for students and employers throughout the training contract;
• $4 million to support Aboriginal learners and Aboriginal Community-Controlled Organisations to deliver culturally safe training and strengthen partnerships across the VET sector;
• $4 million to strengthen the VET workforce. This includes a grants-based program to bring industry experience into TAFE, and support for professional development and networking activities across the VET sector; and
• $2 million to expand Tasmania’s proven 26Ten Workplace Grants program to help workers build the foundation reading, writing and maths skills they need to complete training or in their jobs.

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

“The Albanese Government is committed to making training accessible for all Tasmanians. This $25 million investment will open doors to new opportunities, strengthen support, and boost workforce participation across Tasmania.

“Central to many of these initiatives is the Albanese Government’s partnership with states to place TAFE at the heart of the vocational education and training sector.

“These initiatives are about delivering a VET system that works for everyone, including students, employers, and communities. It’s a long-term investment in Tasmanians and the contributions they can make to the skilled workforce.”

Quotes attributable to Tasmanian Minister for Skills and Jobs, Felix Ellis:

“VET skills are so critical to Tasmania’s future - whether for building our homes, caring for those in need, or creating experiences as part of our visitor economy.

“This important investment will ensure that more Tasmanians have the skills and training they need to grasp these opportunities.

“Tasmania has the highest completion rate for apprentices and trainees of all states and territories, but there is always more work to do.

“We are investing in programs that deliver wraparound support as well as supporting employers and training organisations to build positive experiences for learners.

“The Liberal Government is delivering for Tasmania, with our Tasmanian Skills Plan ensuring learners and employers are at the centre of everything we do to create more jobs and grow the economy.”

ENDS