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Tafe Courses for Free

Government-funded courses available to study in Australia range from Certificate II to Diploma, covering areas like community services, aged care and community development. You can study on-campus, online or through blended delivery via TAFEs and RTOs, with typical course lengths from three months to four years. Government-funded or subsidised places may be available in some states, though eligibility depends on the provider and the state you live in. Graduates often move into roles such as community services worker, aged care worker or community development officer.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What TAFE courses are free right now?

Whether a course is free depends on government funding, which varies by provider and state. Some government-funded courses available in areas like aged care, community services and community development are subsidised in certain states, while others aren't. You can check which courses carry funding on this page, or read Is a Government-Funded Course Right for You? before you enquire with a provider.

How long are TAFE courses free for?

There's no fixed time limit on funding itself, but course length varies by qualification. Government-funded courses in this space typically run from three months for a short course up to four years for a Diploma. Funding eligibility depends on the provider, your state and sometimes how quickly you complete the course, so it's worth confirming details directly with the provider before enrolling.

Can you study government-funded courses online?

Yes, many government-funded courses can be studied online, alongside on-campus and blended options. TAFEs and RTOs deliver these courses across qualification levels from Certificate II to Diploma. The right study mode depends on the course and provider, so it's worth comparing options to find one that fits your schedule and learning style.

What can you do with a government-funded Diploma?

A government-funded Diploma can lead to roles such as community services worker, aged care worker or community development officer, depending on your chosen area of study. Diploma-level courses generally take longer than a Certificate and offer more in-depth training. You can read How Government Loans Work for Diploma-Level Courses to understand funding options at this level.

How do you apply for a government-subsidised course?

Applying for a government-subsidised course usually means checking your eligibility with the provider before you enrol, since rules differ by state and course. Steps often include confirming your citizenship or residency status, choosing a qualification level and contacting the provider directly. The Step-by-Step Guide to Applying for a Government-Subsidised Course walks through the process in more detail.