The main cost of training is usually the course fees, which vary depending on things like which course and training provider you choose.
You may be able to get your training for free or at a reduced cost, or you could get help with paying for training-related costs. You can also pay for some courses with a VET Student Loan.
Government funding for training courses
The Queensland Government pays for Queenslanders to do training in areas that need more workers. The government may pay for some or all of your course fees if you meet eligibility criteria.
How to get free or reduced-cost training
- Choose an eligible course: You can search for government-funded courses on this website.
- Check your eligibility: Whether you are eligible for government funding depends on things like your age, residency, job, past study, and the course and provider you choose. To find out if you're eligible, use the eligibility checker on this page.
- Choose an approved training provider: Only certain training providers are approved to deliver government-funded training. Check the provider’s details on each course page on this website—if they're approved, they're a 'Skills Assure Supplier'. You can also contact them directly.
- Enrol in the course: Once you've chosen a course, enrol with the training provider. Learn more about how to enrol in training.
For free or reduced-cost training, the government pays the training provider directly. You may still have to pay a student contribution fee to the training provider.
Are you eligible for government funding?
Funding programs
| Program | Best for |
|---|---|
| Career Start |
Jobseekers and people starting their careers. Complete a certificate III qualification (including through an apprenticeship or traineeship if available). |
| Career Boost |
People aiming to take the next step in their careers or upskill. Complete a certificate IV or higher qualification (including through an apprenticeship or traineeship if available). |
| VET in Schools |
High school students. Complete a certificate I or II qualification to prepare for a future career. |
| Free Nursing |
People who want to work as a nurse. Complete a Diploma of Nursing. |
| Free Apprenticeships for Under 25s | People under 25 who want to work in a priority area and complete training through an apprenticeship or traineeship. |
| Free Construction Apprenticeships for Over 25s | People over 25 who want to work in construction and complete training through an apprenticeship. |
| Skilling Queenslanders for Work | People who want to develop foundation skills like literacy, numeracy and workplace skills. Training is delivered through local projects. |
Grants, allowances and income support
You may be able to get financial support to help you with the extra costs associated with training, like tools, equipment, housing and transport.
- Grants finder: Use the Queensland Government Grants Finder to find out if you can get any government grants.
- Travel and accommodation allowance: Apprentices and trainees who need to travel to do their training may be eligible for a travel and accommodation allowance.
- Women's Career Grants: If you're a woman returning to work after a break of six months or longer, you might be able to get a Women's Career Grant.
- Income support: The Australian Government provides income support payments for eligible students, apprentices and jobseekers.
- Housing costs: If you are receiving an income support payment from the Australian Government, you may be eligible to receive Rent Assistance to help with the cost of renting.
- Relocation costs: If you plan to move from a regional or remote area to do a certificate IV or higher qualification, you may be eligible for a one-off relocation payment called the Tertiary Access Payment.
- Nursing practical placement costs: If you are doing a Diploma of Nursing, you may be eligible for the Commonwealth Prac Payment—Vocational Education and Training. This is designed to help you with expenses related to your mandatory practical placement.
VET Student Loans
The Australian Government provides loans for students to do vocational education and training (VET) courses. The loan may cover some or all of the course fees.
Start by finding a course you’re interested in, then check on the course page to make sure it’s eligible for a VET Student Loan.
Find out more about VET Student Loans.
Need help understanding your options?
If you’re not sure what funding or financial support you can get, we can help you understand what’s available.
Find answers to common questions or get in touch with our support team.