Fee-free training for Year 12 Ipswich graduates

Free training courses are available to year 12 graduates who enrol in a high priority qualification within 12 months of leaving school under the Queensland Government’s Year 12 fee-free training initiative.

Minister for Training and Skills Development Shannon Fentiman said that Queensland Year 12 graduates would be eligible for the free courses in the calendar year after graduating from Year 12.

“The Palaszczuk Government is committed to making sure our young Queenslanders have the training and skills they need to get into work and build a career” Minister Fentiman said.

“Training is an excellent pathway for Year 12 school leavers and this will give students a head start to their career without worrying about a VET student loan after graduating.

“Certificate III in industries such as engineering, early childhood, aged care and electro technology are on offer fee-free.

“This fantastic initiative supports a variety of career opportunities and plays a vital role in growing our economy through our recent school leavers.”

Member for Ipswich, Jennifer Howard said this was a welcome boost for Ipswich’s newest year 12 graduates.

“With the latest round of graduates now looking for further study or employment opportunities, the fee-free training initiative is a great way to get our young people into training without the burden of a student loan.”

Member for Ipswich West, Jim Madden said this is just one way that the Palaszczuk Government supports young people into further education and jobs.

“We are committed to supporting our recent high school graduates to have the skills they need to get work ready and start a career”.

TAFE Queensland South West region General Manager Brent Kinnane said 585 students were enrolled in the subsidised courses across the Ipswich, Springfield, Darling Downs and South West area in 2017.

The most popular courses include Certificate III in Electrotechnology Electrician, Certificate III in Engineering - Fabrication Trade, and Certificate III in Carpentry.

Mr Kinnane said 2017 school leavers had plenty of options through the State Government’s initiative.

“We work closely with industry to ensure that the courses that we offer equip our students for jobs in the real world.” Mr Kinnane said.

Year 12 fee-free training is available through the Certificate 3 Guarantee and User Choice training programs.  

Students are advised to consider training options carefully before committing to a particular course as this may exhaust entitlements to further subsidised training.

For further information visit www.training.qld.gov.au/whatsnext or call 1300 369 935.

ENDS

Media contact: Inga Williams 0410 769 711