MORE young Queenslanders will successfully be able to get their studies off the ground by taking advantage of free TAFE and free apprenticeships for under 25s.
Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk said the initiative was due to end in September but would now be extended until 2023.
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Some 56,000 Queenslanders have already benefitted from the program.
“Queensland’s unemployment rate is at 3.8 per cent and we know that means employers need workers to fill the good jobs that are still there,” Ms Palaszczuk said.
“For many people, that may mean upgrading skills and training which is why free TAFE is so important.
“We want to make sure employers have access to the skilled workforce they need.
“We also want to make sure Queenslanders have the skills they need to take up the opportunities that are there for those good jobs.”
Queenslanders under the age of 25 can enrol in 26 free TAFE programs and 139 free apprenticeships programs to 30 June 2023 and pay no course fees.
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Minister for Training and Skills Development Di Farmer said the initiative was an additional $21-million investment to provide young people with access to free certificate III TAFE courses across a range of fields.
“Since August 2018, 56,000 Queenslanders have undertaken programs in sectors including health, community services, hospitality, building and construction and education support with TAFE Queensland and other providers delivering their training free of charge.
“This is training that has enabled young Queenslanders to learn skills to get a great job, go on to further study or succeed in their apprenticeship.
“At a time when our employers need more skilled workers, my message to young Queenslanders is find out about these free courses and change your life by training for a career they are passionate about.
“On offer is great training, delivered by great training providers ready to prepare you for a great job, in industries with the greatest demand – you just need to take the first step.”
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The minister said investing in skills and training enriched the lives and employment prospects of individuals and fuelled the State economy through a trained workforce.
Click here for more information about Free TAFE and Free apprenticeships for under 25s.
The top free TAFE courses are:
- Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care
- Certificate III in Individual Support
- Certificate III in Education Support
- Certificate III in Health Services Assistance
- Certificate III in Community Services
The top free apprenticeship courses are:
- Certificate III in Electrotechnology Electrician
- Certificate III in Carpentry
- Certificate III in Light Vehicle Mechanical Technology
- Certificate III in Engineering – Fabrication Trade
- Certificate III in Hairdressing
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