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About Free TAFE

Free TAFE helps Victorians get the skills they need, free from tuition fees.

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What is Free TAFE?

Through Free TAFE, you can choose from more than 80 TAFE courses without the cost of tuition fees. This helps you access the quality training and support you need to get into the career that you want.

Free TAFE courses are in industries such as construction, healthcare, community services, cyber security and agriculture. Specific skills are in high demand in these industries.

With a Free TAFE course, you’ll:

What qualifications does Free TAFE cover?

Free TAFE covers a range of different qualifications and short courses so you can choose the skill level you need.

Certificates

Develop beginner to intermediate skills for the workplace. These courses are a great starting point if you’re new to a field or returning to study. You don’t need prior qualifications for most certificates. You’ll gain practical, job-ready skills to help you take the first step in your career, or you could use a certificate as a pathway into a diploma.

Diplomas and Advanced Diplomas

Develop deeper skills in professional, technical or creative areas. You’ll learn to plan, manage and deliver work at a higher level. These courses can prepare you for skilled jobs or further study at university. They’re ideal for advancing your career or specialising in your field.

Pre-apprenticeships

An introduction to training in an apprenticeship. They can help you find out what it’s like to work in a particular industry or whether you want to be an apprentice. A pre-apprenticeship could also be your pathway into an apprenticeship.

Short courses

Focused training programs designed to help you quickly gain specific skills. Short courses can last anywhere from a day to several months, making them the fastest way to learn.

How does Free TAFE work?

TAFE course costs are made up of 3 parts:

Free TAFE means that you don’t have to pay the tuition fees.

Individual courses and TAFEs may have student and course material fees. You can enquire about these directly with the TAFE you intend to enrol in.

Many TAFEs offer student loans, payment plans or scholarships to help with the extra costs that are not covered by Free TAFE. You’ll find additional information on each TAFE website.

You’ll also need to study at a Victorian TAFE. Free TAFE is not available through non-TAFE providers.

Is the course quality different for Free TAFE courses?

No. Free TAFE and fee-paying students attend the same classes. You receive the same quality training and education as a full-fee course, but your tuition fees are covered by the Australian and Victorian Governments.

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Got a question about Free TAFE?

We’re here to help. Please complete this form with your questions and the TAFE and Training Line will be in touch.

More about Free TAFE

Free TAFE courses

Discover a range of Free TAFE courses in Victoria. Explore by course name or select multiple study areas and course types to narrow your search.

Free TAFE eligibility

Find out who can access Free TAFE in Victoria, including eligibility for residents and asylum seekers, and options for completing multiple Free TAFE courses.

Updated 11 March 2026

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