Cost pressures eliminated

Victorian students pursuing Vocational Education and Training, VET, courses will receive more funding support during this school year.

State Minister for Education Natalie Hutchins said a $120.2-million funding package would ensure schools could cover the cost of course materials for students, as well as delivering VET courses in industries linked to workforce shortages such as building and construction, electrical and auto engineering.

“This extra funding will give students better support and flexibility to study what they want, to prepare them for jobs of the future,” she said.

“We’re also investing in delivering VET training for jobs in industries that are suffering major workforce shortages to deliver better outcomes for Victorian students and businesses.”

Until recently, a student wanting to study a Certificate II in Building and Construction, pre-apprenticeship, paid up to $587 for course materials.

The funding aims to remove barriers for people wanting to undertake VET studies by reducing out-of-pocket expenses for families. It will also support teachers’ professional development.

Small regional schools previously unable to offer VET classes will be provided additional funding to make these options possible for students.

The funding supports schools to improve access to a core offering of priority VET pathways as well as provide the new VCE Vocational Major and Victorian Pathways Certificate, so every senior secondary student can access quality vocational and applied learning through a local government school.

The reforms aim to give students greater choices and options, allowing them to pursue an education aligned with their strengths and interests.