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Career Start (QLD)

12 Courses

About Career Start (QLD)

The Queensland Government’s Career Start funding program supports eligible Queenslanders to complete their first post-school Certificate III qualification and increase their skills to move into employment, re-enter the workforce or advance their career.

The Career Start funding program subsidises your vocational education and training (VET) course fees. This means that instead of paying the full costs of a training course, you will pay a reduced amount, making training more affordable and accessible. To be eligible to access Career Start, you must:

  • be an Australian or New Zealand citizen, or an Australian permanent resident (including humanitarian entrants), or a temporary resident with an eligible visa subclass
  • be 15 years old or over
  • live in Queensland and have left school
  • not already have, or be enrolled in, a Certificate III level or higher qualification.
FAQs

How do I apply for a Career Start course?

Find an approved training provider offering a subsidised Certificate III course. They will confirm your eligibility and guide you through the enrolment process. More info: training.qld.gov.au.

Can I do a second Certificate III under this program?

No. The program is limited to your first post-school Certificate III qualification. Once you’ve accessed the subsidy, you won’t be eligible for another under the Career Start program.

What documents will I need to enrol?

You’ll need proof of Queensland residency, age, citizenship or visa status, and possibly concession eligibility (e.g. Health Care Card). The provider will outline the full list.

Are the courses nationally recognised?

Yes. All subsidised courses are delivered by government-approved Registered Training Organisations (RTOs) and lead to nationally recognised qualifications under the Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF).

Do I need to be unemployed to apply?

No. Both employed and unemployed individuals can access the program. It’s designed to improve workforce readiness and help Queenslanders transition into higher-skill roles.