Fee-free training for Year 12 Townsville 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 Townsville, Scott Stewart said this was a welcome boost for Townsville’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 Thuringowa, Aaron Harper 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”.

Member for Mundingburra Coralee O’Rourke encouraged anyone considering further studies after finishing school to look further into option that TAFE can provide.

“Further studies with TAFE can open up doors to so many opportunities and can be the stepping stone that our young people need when looking for a lifelong career,” Ms O’Rourke said

TAFE Queensland North region General Manager Joann Pyne said 242 students were enrolled in the subsidised courses at the organisation’s Townsville campuses this financial year.

The most popular courses include Certificate III in Electrotechnology Electrician, Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care, Certificate III in Carpentry, Certificate III in Air-conditioning and Refrigeration, and Certificate III in Engineering – Fabrication Trade.

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

“The telecommunications and engineering trade industries are currently experiencing a shortage and there is high demand for skilled workers,” Ms Pyne 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 3719 7518