Cost of Tafe Courses Set to Rise

TAFE has long been one of the most accessible and affordable ways to gain job-ready skills in Australia. But with evolving government funding models, TAFE course costs are shifting—especially for diploma and advanced diploma programs.

Whether you’re planning to enrol or already studying, understanding what these changes mean for your education and career is essential. Here’s a breakdown of what’s driving the fee increases, how much more students might pay, and the financial support available to help you keep moving forward.

Why Are TAFE Fees Increasing?

State governments and independent bodies like the Independent Pricing and Regulatory Tribunal (IPART) review funding structures for Vocational Education and Training (VET) to ensure sustainability and alignment with workforce demand.

Recent reforms have shifted towards a co-contribution model, where students cover a portion of course costs—typically around 30–40%—and the government funds the rest. This model mirrors the way university students pay for their degrees and aims to preserve access to subsidised places while managing public investment in skills development.

How Much More Will TAFE Students Pay?

Fee changes vary by state, course level, and industry. Based on recent funding trends and current projections:

• ~15% of students may see no change or a fee decrease
• ~25% could face increases of up to $500 per qualification
• ~35% might see increases between $500 and $1,500
• ~25% of students in high-cost or in-demand fields (e.g. health, construction, engineering) may face increases above $1,500

TIP: Fee structures vary across Australia. Check with your state’s education department or your chosen provider for the latest information. You can also visit My Skills to compare pricing and subsidies by course and location.

How to Manage the Cost of TAFE: Financial Support Options

1. VET Student Loans (VSL)

If you’re studying an eligible diploma or advanced diploma, a VET Student Loan lets you defer the cost of your course until you’re earning above the repayment threshold—just like HECS-HELP for university students. Repayments are income-contingent and processed through the ATO.

2. Fee-Free and Subsidised Training

Thanks to joint federal and state initiatives, thousands of government-subsidised places are now available in priority sectors—many at low or no cost. High-demand fields with fee-free places include:

• Aged care and disability support
• Early childhood education
• Construction and trades
• Health and nursing
• Information technology and cyber security

Check My Skills or your state’s skills department (e.g. Free TAFE Victoria) to find out what’s available near you.

3. Scholarships and Concessions

You may be eligible for extra support depending on your background or circumstances. Options include:

• Low-income or concession cardholder discounts
• Scholarships for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students
• Women in STEM and trades initiatives
• Regional or remote training support

Is TAFE Still Worth It in 2025?

Absolutely. TAFE remains one of the most practical, cost-effective education pathways in Australia. Courses are aligned with workforce needs, tend to be shorter and more affordable than university degrees, and often lead directly to employment.

In fact, many of Australia’s most in-demand occupations—such as electricians, aged care workers, early childhood educators, and construction professionals—require a TAFE qualification rather than a university degree.

Explore our full list of TAFE and vocational education providers to find a course that fits your career goals.