The Queensland government has unveiled a $370 million package to fund one million training places for Queenslanders over the next five years, expected to ease workforce pressures in priority industries.
The “Good Jobs, Great Training: Queensland Skills Strategy 2024 – 2028” will help address local workforce needs in key industries like healthcare, retail, nursing, construction and tourism by providing more free and subsidised training opportunities.
A central pillar is an extension of the popular Free TAFE program, which will receive funding for up to 70,000 additional free places — including 30,000 brand-new spots.
This will allow more Queenslanders to train for better-paying jobs in high-demand fields without the burden of hefty course fees.
“We want Queenslanders at the front of the line for good jobs, and this investment will ensure we make the most of this golden decade of opportunity.
“This strategy is not just real cost of living relief now, but a chance at a better life, with better pay and a better job, helping grow our economy right across the state,” said Training and Skills Development Minister Lance McCallum.
The strategy’s five focus areas over five years are projected to unlock billions in annual skills investment across the state.
One million publicly subsidised training places will be funded in priority sectors inlcuding construction.
For the Wide Bay region, which includes Hervey Bay and Bundaberg, the strategy aims to help meet projected workforce demands in fast-growing industries like healthcare, retail, education, construction and hospitality/tourism.
Over 1,300 locals accessed free TAFE courses last year.
With higher-level skills in increasing demand from employers, the Queensland Skills Strategy aims to maximise productivity and participation while delivering major cost-of-living relief through subsidised vocational training across the state.
