The Commonwealth and Queensland Governments have announced a $115 million funding package to strengthen vocational education and training (VET) in Queensland, aiming to improve student completion rates, expand access to foundation skills, and address critical workforce shortages.
The funding, part of the National Skills Agreement, will support initiatives that help more Queenslanders finish their training and transition into secure, skilled jobs.
Where the funding will go
- $98.7 million will focus on improving completion rates for apprentices, trainees, and students – particularly those in regional areas or from disadvantaged backgrounds.
- $15 million will broaden access to foundation skills training, including digital literacy, to ensure learners are job-ready in an increasingly digital economy.
- An additional $1.9 million will support Queensland’s participation in the national VET data streamlining program, improving the accuracy, timeliness, and security of training data.
The investment will deliver:
- Better course guidance to help students choose the right training pathway.
- New support services to assist learners throughout their training journey.
- Re-engagement programs for apprentices and students who have left training before completion.
Federal Minister for Skills and Training Mr Andrew Giles said the funding reflects a strong commitment to helping Queenslanders gain qualifications for the jobs of the future.
“Wherever VET students are in Queensland, the Commonwealth Government wants to support them to gain qualifications and follow their pathway to a career they’ll love,” Minister Giles said.
“This funding, together with the Queensland Government, will back VET students to get the skills they want for the jobs we need.
“We’re also focused on supporting Queenslanders who may need help building their foundation skills, particularly in a world of work that is increasingly digital. Delivering this $15 million boost to foundation skills will mean more Queenslanders can get the training they need in their local communities.”
Queensland Minister for Finance, Trade, Employment and Training Ms Ros Bates said the investment will help build a stronger skills pipeline ahead of major opportunities like the 2032 Olympic Games.
“This work will help develop a stronger skills pipeline and more Queenslanders entering secure, skilled jobs –especially in key industries facing shortages,” Minister Bates said.
“The significant investment in improving completions is part of our plan to help more students in Queensland’s training system finish their training, more employers get the skilled workers they need, and more communities benefit from a strong and sustainable VET system.
“As we look towards the opportunities of the 2032 Games, we will continue delivering more training opportunities, as we work to address the skills shortages in sectors like housing, healthcare, and construction.”
The National Skills Agreement is a five-year partnership between the Commonwealth and state and territory governments, which began on 1 January 2024. So far, five bilateral implementation plans have been signed, including initiatives for improved completions, foundation skills, VET data streamlining, and two TAFE Centres of Excellence.
