Fee-free training for Year 12 graduates in Wide Bay

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 Maryborough, Bruce Saunders said this is just one way that the Palaszczuk Government supports young people into further education and jobs.

“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.”

“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 – East Coast region Acting General Manager Mark Reilly said 21 students were enrolled in the subsidised courses at the organisation’s Wide Bay campuses in Bundaberg, Hervey Bay, Maryborough and Gympie last financial year.

The most popular courses were in the areas of automotive and hairdressing; however, Mr Reilly said 2017 school leavers had plenty of options through the State Government’s initiative.

“The service sector is currently experiencing a shortage, with health care and social assistance workers most in demand. However, there is also a high demand for skilled retail and hospitality workers in the Wide Bay area,” Mr Reilly 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