Almost 4,000 free TAFE enrolments in the Territory
Almost 4,000 Free TAFE enrolments have been recorded in the Northern Territory, helping Territorians train for the jobs our communities and economy need. New data released on National TAFE Day shows there were 3,954 Free TAFE enrolments in the Territory between January 2023 and June 2026. Territorians are training in areas including construction, early childhood education, community services, Aboriginal health, agriculture, tourism and technology.
Among the most popular courses were Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care, with 296 enrolments, Certificate III in Civil Construction Plant Operations, with 263, and Certificate III in Community Services, with 220. Free TAFE is also saving Territorians thousands of dollars. A prospective student undertaking Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care can save up to an estimated $16,406 in course fees, while Certificate III in Community Services can save a student up to $8,977.
Nationally, Free TAFE has supported more than 850,000 enrolments since January 2023. Quotes attributable to the Minister for Indigenous Australians and Northern Territory Senator Malarndirri McCarthy: “Free TAFE is changing lives, skilling up Territorians for the jobs of the future, in the sectors where they’re needed most. "Free TAFE is removing barriers to education and training, as well as almost 4,000 enrolments in the NT, there have been more than 53,000 enrolments by First Nations people across the country.
“Alongside Free TAFE, four new community-led Mobile TAFE projects will help ensure more Territorians in remote communities can access the benefits of TAFE; from the Big Rivers region to Arnhem Land and the Tiwi Islands." Quotes attributable to Federal Member for Solomon (Darwin and Palmerston), Luke Gosling OAM MP: “Almost 4,000 Free TAFE enrolments in the Territory means more Territorians getting the skills they need for a good job.
“We need more skilled workers in the Territory - building homes, educating our kids, caring for people and supporting industries that keep our economy moving. “Free TAFE means you can get those skills without thousands of dollars in course fees. For someone studying early childhood education, that can mean saving more than $16,000.
“That’s good for Territorians looking to get ahead and good for Territory businesses looking for skilled workers. “On National TAFE Day, I also want to thank our TAFE teachers and trainers for the work they do helping Territorians get skilled and qualified.” Quotes attributable to Member for Lingiari Marion Scrymgour MP: “For many Territorians getting the skills to take up a good job can be much harder when training isn’t available locally or the cost of study presents a significant barrier.
“Free TAFE is helping to change that. Almost 4,000 Territorians have already enrolled and are on the path to attaining their dream job. “I’m particularly pleased to know that this investment will eventually reach into remote communities through the new Mobile TAFE projects.
This will support more people to train where they live, while building the skills and workforce our communities need.” Subscribe and stay up to date Connect with us PM&C acknowledges the traditional owners and custodians of country throughout Australia and acknowledges their continuing connection to land, water and community. We pay our respects to the people, the cultures and the elders past, present and emerging.