Fees for enrolling into another 107 TAFE courses have been reduced as part of a new JobTrainer Agreement between the WA and Commonwealth Governments.
Under the Lower Fees, Local Skills initiative, fees have been cut by up to 72 per cent for 180 courses in total.
The reduction means students under 25 or eligible people of all ages looking for work, will pay no more than $400 in annual TAFE course fees.
According to the Minister for Education and Training, Sue Ellery, the Lower Fees, Local Skills initiative has already seen enrolments in eligible priority vocational education and training (VET) courses increase by 20 per cent.
Ms Ellery said the State and Commonwealth Governments had signed a new $103.4 million agreement that resulted in the fees being reduced.
“The investment in WA’s training sector builds on the $229.2 million WA Recovery Plan TAFE Infrastructure and Training Package to create a pipeline of skilled workers to help with the State’s economic recovery,” Ms Ellery said.
“Lower Fees, Local Skills has been expanded in consultation with industry to engage job seekers, women and young people to meet immediate and emerging skill requirements.”
She said the 107 additional reduced-fee courses would deliver training in sectors including building and construction, manufacturing, information technology, mining, engineering, aquaculture, agriculture, horticulture and logistics.
“More free TAFE short courses will also be added to meet emerging skill needs,” the Minister said.
“These skill sets are completely free for those looking for work or people under 25 to help get them into jobs,” she said.
“Reduced fees for the additional 107 courses will be available from 1 January,” Ms Ellery said.
