Fee Free Courses
Australia offers 20 fee-free courses courses in 2026, ranging from Certificate III to Diploma. You can study fee-free courses fully online or on-campus through registered RTOs, TAFEs, and universities. Courses typically take 9 months to 2 years to complete. Many are delivered under state fee-free TAFE or JobTrainer-style initiatives for priority community services and aged care roles.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is fee-free courses?
Fee-free courses are government-funded training programmes where eligible students pay $0 in tuition for approved Certificate III to Diploma qualifications. In Australia, initiatives such as fee-free TAFE and state-subsidised training focus on priority areas like community services and aged care. Students may still need to cover materials, uniforms, or placement costs. These courses are usually delivered by recognised RTOs, TAFEs, and universities.
How long does a fee-free courses course take in Australia?
Most fee-free courses listed in Australia run from 9 months to 2 years, aligning with Certificate III to Diploma levels. Certificate III qualifications generally sit at the shorter end of this 9–24 month window, especially when studied full-time. Diploma programmes are more likely to approach the 2-year mark. Part-time, self-paced, or online delivery can extend the overall duration.
Can I study fee-free courses online in Australia?
Many of the 20 fee-free options can be completed fully online, while others offer blended or on-campus delivery through TAFEs, universities, and private RTOs. Online study is common for community services and care qualifications at Certificate III, Certificate IV and Diploma level. Some units, such as work placements, still need in-person attendance. Students comparing flexible options often start with general Online Courses.
How much does a fee-free courses course cost?
For students who meet eligibility criteria under fee-free TAFE, JobTrainer or state-subsidised training, tuition fees are reduced to $0 for approved Certificate III to Diploma courses. Without this funding, similar qualifications can cost from a few thousand dollars to well over ten thousand, depending on level and provider. Some higher-level Diplomas may also access VET Student Loans. Learners should still budget for textbooks, technology, and placement-related expenses.
What jobs can I get with a fee-free courses qualification?
Graduates from fee-free community services and care courses commonly move into roles such as Accommodation Support Worker, Aged Care Worker, Community Care Worker, and Aged Care Service Manager. These jobs typically draw on Certificate III, Certificate IV or Diploma-level training in community services or aged care. Career progression can include supervising care teams or coordinating services for older Australians and people with disability.
