Free TAFE drives growth in Australia’s early childhood education workforce pipeline

More than 65,000 enrolments in early childhood education and care qualifications have been recorded through Free TAFE, with new figures highlighting the scale of interest in government-supported pathways into the sector.

More than 65,000 enrolments in early childhood education and care (ECEC) qualifications have been recorded through the Australian Government’s Free TAFE initiative since its national rollout began in 2023.

The latest figures show the Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care has become the second most popular Free TAFE course nationally, recording 51,110 enrolments and accounting for 6 per cent of all Free TAFE enrolments.

A further 12,835 enrolments have been recorded in the Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care, which supports educators to extend their skills and pursue more advanced roles within the sector.

States and territories have reported 11,848 completions of the Certificate III and 3,176 Diploma completions through Free TAFE.

The figures come as governments and providers continue to focus on strengthening the pipeline of qualified early childhood professionals needed to meet workforce demand.

Minister for Skills and Training Andrew Giles said the uptake demonstrated the role Free TAFE was playing in areas experiencing significant demand.

“Free TAFE is delivering in droves, including in early childhood education and care, which is one of Australia’s most in-demand sectors,” Minister Giles said.

Removing course fees is intended to reduce one of the barriers facing people considering a career in ECEC or seeking to further their qualifications.

According to the Government, a student undertaking the Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care in South Australia can save up to $4,500 in course fees through Free TAFE.

In Victoria, a student completing the Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care can save up to $8,000.

The initiative has now been made permanent, with the Government committing to at least 100,000 Free TAFE and vocational education and training places each year from 2027.

Free TAFE sits alongside other government measures aimed at addressing workforce pressures across ECEC.

In June 2026, the Government announced an additional $3.6 billion to extend the Worker Retention Payment until 30 June 2028, continuing support for wage increases for eligible ECEC professionals.

The Government pointed to a decline in ECEC internet job vacancies since the payment was announced, as well as survey findings indicating improved educator wellbeing and an increase in the proportion of professionals intending to remain in the sector.

Minister for Early Childhood Education Senator Jess Walsh said improving access to training alongside pay and conditions was an important part of responding to workforce shortages.

“By making training more accessible and affordable, while also improving pay and working conditions, the Albanese Government is helping address workforce shortages and ensure more children can access quality early childhood education and care,” Minister Walsh said.

The strong uptake of early childhood qualifications through Free TAFE provides an encouraging indicator of interest in careers and further professional development within ECEC.

However, enrolment and qualification figures represent one part of the workforce picture. For services navigating ongoing workforce pressures, the longer-term impact will also depend on how many graduates enter the ECEC workforce and how successfully the sector retains qualified educators.

With demand for early childhood education and care continuing, accessible qualification pathways, workforce conditions and opportunities for career development will remain important elements of building a sustainable workforce.

Read the Minister's media announcement here.