Even more young Queenslanders will be able to take advantage of Free TAFE and Free apprenticeships for under 25s.
Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk said the initiative, which has already helped 56,000 Queenslanders get the skills and training employers value, was due to end in September but will be extended until 2023.
"Queensland's unemployment rate is at 3.8% and we know that means employers need workers to fill the good jobs that are still there," the Premier 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."
Minister for Training and Skills Development Di Farmer said Queenslanders aged under 25 could continue to enrol in 26 Free TAFE programs and 139 Free apprenticeships programs up to 30 June 2023 and pay no course fees.
"Our Free TAFE and Free apprenticeships for under 25s initiative is an additional $21 million investment to provide young people with access to free certificate III TAFE courses across a wide range of areas," Minister Farmer said.
"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."
Minister Farmer said the Palaszczuk Government has delivered record investment in skills and training in this year's State Budget, investing $1.2 billion for Queenslanders to access programs such as free training, subsidised training or dedicated work preparation programs.
"Every dollar we invest in skills and training for Queenslanders pays dual dividends – it enriches the lives and employment prospects of students, and it fuels the state's economy through a highly trained workforce," Minister Farmer said.
"Our significant investment is already delivering, including our free TAFE initiative, with an increase of 85.5% in new apprenticeships and trainee commencement over the last two financial years, which is critical with the current labour shortages.
"With 83.9 percent of TAFE graduates going on to employment or further study after completing their training it's further proof of the Palaszczuk Government's commitment to delivering good jobs, better services and a great lifestyle for Queenslanders."
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
