Doc Summary
Vocational study in Australia—known as Vocational Education and Training (VET)—is practical, job-focused learning delivered by TAFE institutes and Registered Training Organisations (RTOs). It leads to nationally recognised Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF) awards (Certificates I–IV, Diploma and Advanced Diploma), and often includes apprenticeships or traineeships for paid, on-the-job experience.
How the system works #
VET is designed with industry to build work-ready skills. Courses are based on national training packages and accredited qualifications listed on training.gov.au, ensuring consistent standards across Australia. Providers include public TAFE institutes and private RTOs regulated by the Australian Skills Quality Authority (ASQA): https://www.asqa.gov.au/.
International students must study with a CRICOS-registered provider and course. You can verify providers and courses via Study Australia.
VET qualifications and levels #
- Certificate I–II: Entry-level skills and basic knowledge for routine work. Shortest duration.
- Certificate III: Trade-level skills; common for apprenticeships (e.g., carpentry, electrical, hospitality).
- Certificate IV: Supervisory/technical skills; often bridges to Diploma.
- Diploma: Advanced technical and para-professional capabilities.
- Advanced Diploma: Higher-level para-professional competency; can pathway to university.
- Graduate Certificate/Graduate Diploma (VET): In some fields, advanced specialisations within VET.
Who it’s for and popular fields #
VET suits school-leavers, career changers, upskillers and international students who want industry-aligned qualifications with strong employment outcomes. Popular areas include:
- Trades: building and construction, electrical, plumbing, automotive
- Healthcare: aged care, disability, nursing (Enrolled Nurse), community services
- Business and IT: business, project management, cybersecurity, digital media
- Hospitality and tourism: cookery, patisserie, hotel operations
- Early childhood education, education support
- Logistics, warehousing, civil construction, engineering, hair and beauty
Entry requirements, duration and delivery #
- Entry: Typically Year 10–12 or equivalent; some courses require specific subjects, portfolios or industry checks (e.g., Working With Children, police checks).
- English: International students usually need an approved English test score (e.g., IELTS, PTE) per CRICOS/provider requirements.
- Duration: From a few months (Certificate II) to 1–2 years (Diploma/Advanced Diploma); apprenticeships often run 3–4 years.
- Delivery: On-campus, online, blended, workplace-based; assessments are competency-based, focusing on demonstrated skills.
Costs, funding and visas #
Tuition varies by provider, qualification level and state. Domestic students may access state subsidies or VET Student Loans for eligible Diploma+ courses. International students pay full fees set by the provider and must hold a valid Student visa (subclass 500), with evidence requirements such as CoE, OSHC and financial capacity. Always check the latest visa rules on the Department of Home Affairs website.
Pathways: apprenticeships, RPL and university #
- Apprenticeships and traineeships: Earn while you learn in a contract of training with an employer. Explore options at Australian Apprenticeships.
- Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL): Have your existing skills and experience assessed for credit toward a qualification—fast-tracking completion and lowering cost.
- Credit transfer and university pathways: Many Diplomas/Advanced Diplomas provide credit into Bachelor degrees. Check each provider’s articulation agreements.
Note: Some VET occupations align to skilled migration needs from time to time. For current settings and occupation lists, see Home Affairs skilled occupation lists. This is general information only.
How to choose the right VET course #
- Define your goal: employment, licencing, PR prospects, or a university pathway.
- Check national recognition: Confirm the qualification code on training.gov.au and provider compliance via ASQA.
- Compare providers: TAFE vs private RTO, facilities, trainer experience, work placement, student support.
- Review delivery: schedule, campus location, online options and mandated practical hours.
- Understand costs: tuition, materials, uniforms/tools, and funding/loan eligibility.
- Plan your pathway: check apprenticeship availability, RPL opportunities and university credit maps.
Why choose VET in Australia? #
- Hands‑on, industry-driven learning with job-ready outcomes
- Flexible entry points and study modes
- Nationally recognised qualifications across all states and territories
- Clear pathways to employment and higher education
Get personalised help from Skills Campus #
Whether you’re exploring TAFE, comparing RTOs, seeking RPL, or planning a pathway to university or skilled employment, Skills Campus can guide you. Our education consultants match your goals with the right course, provider and intake, and we help streamline documentation, RPL assessments and visa-ready course packaging for international students.
Start your journey today. Contact us for a free consultation: https://skillscampus.com.au/contact
