Premier celebrates five years of free TAFE at William Angliss Institute

Premier Jacinta Allan has paid a visit to William Angliss Institute to mark five years since the introduction of free TAFE courses in Victoria.

Initially introduced by the Labor government, the ground-breaking program has saved students a total of $436 million since its introduction in 2019.

There are more than 80 qualifications deemed to be in priority areas where fees are waived including areas such as early childhood education, cyber security, and nursing.

The program has been particularly effective at incentivising underrepresented groups to enter the workforce, including unemployed individuals, culturally and linguistically diverse people and Victorians with disability.

More than 157,500 students across the state have received free education and upskilling courses through the program. 

To celebrate the milestone of the initiative, Ms Allan visited William Angliss Institute on March 7 where students presented an anniversary cake to mark the occasion.

William Angliss offers courses in food, tourism, hospitality, and events, helping boost the hospitality workforce.

The Premier was complimentary of the program’s success, and emphasised how it encouraged entry into some of the state’s most high priority occupations.

Premier Jacinta Allan and Minister for Skills and TAFE Gayle Tierney celebrate the fifth anniversary of free TAFE at William Angliss Institute. Photos: Vic Government.

​​“Whether it’s hospitality or healthcare, there is huge demand for a skilled workforce across Victoria – and Free TAFE gives everyone the chance to get the skills they need for the job they want,” she said.

Certificate III in Hospitality student Laura White met with the Premier and Minister for Skills and TAFE Gayle Tierney during the celebration on campus at William Angliss.

“I love the fact that my course gives me so much industry experience, including how to run a restaurant.  I also had the opportunity to work at the Melbourne Food and Wine Festival giving me experience working at a large-scale event,” Laura said.

Laura also aims to do the Certificate III in Patisserie later in the year and after a few years working in industry, she looks to opening her own dessert bar.

“For anyone thinking about studying at TAFE, I would say that it’s a really good way to learn more about what you’re passionate about,” she added.

In 2023, the Institute’s programs were delivered to around 12,000 students across its Melbourne, Sydney, Singapore, and partner campuses, as well as various workplaces in Australia and overseas.