How to Apply for Government‑Subsidised Training Programs for Workers in Australia

Government‑subsidised training can reduce or remove tuition costs for workers who want to upskill, reskill, or gain nationally recognised qualifications. This guide explains eligibility, where to apply in each state and territory, the documents you’ll need, and how to streamline your application—including using Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL).

Who is eligible for subsidised training? #

Eligibility varies by state/territory, program, and qualification level, but common criteria include:

• Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible visa holder (some state programs also include New Zealand citizens and humanitarian visa holders).
• Living or working in the state or territory offering the subsidy.
• Meeting prior education limits (for example, not already holding a higher‑level qualification in the same field).
• Enrolling in an approved qualification on the current subsidised list.
• For traineeships/apprenticeships: being employed and party to a training contract.

Always check the latest rules for your jurisdiction:

• NSW Smart and Skilled: https://www.smartandskilled.nsw.gov.au
• VIC Skills First: https://www.education.vic.gov.au/training/learners/fees/Pages/skillsfirst.aspx
• QLD subsidised training: https://desbt.qld.gov.au/training/training-careers/incentives
• WA Jobs and Skills: https://www.jobsandskills.wa.gov.au
• SA Skills SA: https://skills.sa.gov.au
• ACT Skilled Capital/User Choice: https://www.skills.act.gov.au/skilled-capital
• TAS Skills Tasmania: https://www.skills.tas.gov.au
• NT training funding: https://nt.gov.au/industry/training/funding-and-subsidies-for-training

Step‑by‑step: How to apply #

1. Confirm your eligibility. Read your state/territory program rules (links above). Check citizenship/visa, residency, prior qualifications, and course availability.
2. Choose a qualification. Search the national register for accredited courses on https://training.gov.au. Align with in‑demand occupations where possible.
3. Find an approved provider (RTO). Use your program’s provider list or government search tool (e.g., Smart and Skilled or Jobs and Skills WA) to select a contracted provider for that course.
4. Get a fee quote. Providers can issue a formal quote showing your subsidised fee/co‑contribution and any concessions.
5. Create/confirm your USI. You must have a Unique Student Identifier: https://www.usi.gov.au.
6. Gather documents. Typically: ID, proof of citizenship/visa, proof of address, prior qualifications/transcripts, employment details (for traineeships), and concession cards (if applicable).
7. Assess RPL options. Ask the provider to assess Recognition of Prior Learning to shorten study time and reduce fees where eligible.
8. Submit your application/enrolment. Most applications are lodged through the approved provider, who validates eligibility and processes your government funding.
9. For apprentices/trainees: Sign a training contract with your employer and an Australian Apprenticeship Support Network provider. Start here: https://www.australianapprenticeships.gov.au.
10. Receive confirmation. You’ll get an offer or training plan outlining units, duration, fees, and subsidy details. Accept to commence.

Documents you’ll typically need #

• Photo ID (driver licence, passport) and Medicare card (if applicable).
• Citizenship or visa evidence.
• Proof of residency in the state/territory (e.g., utility bill).
• USI number.
• Academic transcripts/certificates for credit transfer or RPL.
• Employment evidence for traineeships (e.g., payslip/contract).
• Concession documentation (e.g., health care card) if seeking reduced fees.

Costs, co‑contributions and employer support #

Subsidies reduce tuition, but you may still pay a student co‑contribution, materials, or licence fees. Concessions may apply for eligible learners. Employers may co‑fund or receive incentives for training staff, especially under apprenticeships/traineeships—confirm current entitlements via your state program and the Australian Apprenticeships incentives pages.

Timelines, caps and next steps #

• Places can be capped. High‑demand courses sometimes waitlist or close early—apply promptly.
• Start dates vary. Some providers offer rolling intakes; others run by term.
• Keep records. Retain your training plan, fee notice, and provider communications.
• Progress reporting. Providers report your completions to the national system; confirm statements of attainment and testamurs on completion.

Useful official resources #

• National course register: https://training.gov.au
• Australian Apprenticeships: https://www.australianapprenticeships.gov.au
• Careers and training info: https://www.yourcareer.gov.au

How Skills Campus can help #

Skills Campus simplifies the pathway to subsidised training. We help you:

• Confirm eligibility across states and programs.
• Select the right qualification aligned to your role or target occupation.
• Connect with approved providers (RTOs) and obtain accurate fee quotes.
• Leverage Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) to reduce time and cost.
• Prepare documents and lodge a complete, compliant application.

Ready to start? Visit https://skillscampus.com.au or speak with our advisors. For personalised support with your application, contact us at https://skillscampus.com.au/contact.