Federal Government announces $10m microcredential push, including for ECEC

The Federal Government is delivering more than $10.7 million to higher education providers to provide microcredential courses in priority areas including early childhood education and care (ECEC). 

Microcredentials offer students increased flexibility to mix and match studies across the higher education sector to enable them to find a new job or get ahead in their current field.

Forty-eight courses have been funded and will support over 2,500 students to equip the workforce with “the technical skills and know-how we need.”

In the ECEC space Western Sydney University will offer a Professional Certificate in Early Child Development and Contemporary Childhoods and the Queensland University of Technology will offer a Trauma-Aware Education Microcredential. 

Other courses will target primary and high school teaching, nursing, IT and engineering. 

Most of the new courses will be available online or a mix of online and face-to-face at 25 providers across Australia.

This is the second round of the Microcredentials Pilot for Higher Education. Combined with round one, this announcement means a total of 76 microcredential courses will be funded, making it possible for more than 4,000 Australians to upskill in areas most in need.

“In the years ahead more jobs will require more skills,” Minister for Education Jason Clare said. 

“Microcredentials can help Australians prepare for the jobs of the future and upskill or reskill throughout their careers. This investment means more Australians can get the skills in areas we need, such as teaching, nursing, and engineering.”

The Pilot has received strong engagement from the sector with 146 applications received for the second round. 

To view all the successful recipients please see Microcredentials Pilot in Higher Education – Department of Education, Australian Government