Changes to the TAFE and training system are designed to make the system more accessible for people who do not have a post-school qualification or who want to gain a higher level qualification than they already hold.

Your course place guaranteed

Under the previous system, the State Government funded a set number of training places. Under the changes a subsidised place at an approved training provider is guaranteed for all eligible students.

Are you eligible for a government subsidised place?

You are eligible for a government subsidised place if you are:

• an Australian or New Zealand citizen or permanent resident of Australia, and
• under 20 years of age in the year in which your course starts, or
• doing a Foundation Level course, or
• doing a qualification higher than any you already have, or
• an employee accessing training under the Skills for Growth program.

If you are not eligible, talk to the TAFE or training provider - they may be able to suggest another course that you can get a government subsidy for that still meets your skill needs.

Under the changes, in 2010 the Government will pay between 70 and 90 per cent of the cost of your training in a government subsidised place. As before, you will still be required to cover some of the cost by paying tuition fees.

The new fairer fee system reflects the level of the course.  Course fees will rise for higher level courses, such as Diplomas and Advanced Diplomas, but will fall or remain the same for lower level courses.

Now someone learning to read and write will pay less than someone studying an Advanced Diploma. 

For training in 2010, your tuition fees in a government subsidised place will be as little as $50 for a Foundation Level literacy and numeracy course, increasing to $2,000 for an Advanced Diploma. 

Fees are capped, so there is a maximum you will pay regardless of how much government subsidised training you complete in a year.  Visit Fees for a full list of tuition fees from 2010.

VET FEE-HELP loans are available at approved training providers for eligible students studying at Diploma level and above, regardless of whether or not they are eligible for government funding. You can defer the cost of your course until you are earning over $43,000 a year and are able to pay it back.  Visit the VET FEE-HELP website for more information. 

Concessions are still available for all courses except Diplomas and Advanced Diplomas.  The maximum concession fee in 2010 is $120.

Apprentices and trainees and Indigenous students continue to access concessions at all levels.

For more information about training visit Get Training or call the Skills Victoria hotline on 1300 842 754.