Tertiary Education and Training

Venning acknowledged the dedication of TAFE staff but criticised the government's Free TAFE policy for failing to deliver results in regional areas. Venning pointed out that apprenticeship and traineeship numbers have dropped from 426,000 to 282,000 since the government took office, with trade occupations down by 30,000. Venning cited a 50 per cent completion rate for fee-free TAFE in South Australia in 2025 as evidence of policy failure. Venning argued that funding is not reaching relevant local industries, using Coober Pedy as an example where TAFE facilities are underutilised for local skills training.

Templeman highlighted the historical roots of TAFE in mechanics institutes and schools of arts, noting their continued importance in her electorate. Templeman described visits to TAFE campuses in Richmond and the Blue Mountains, where students are engaged in horticulture, hospitality, and aged care training. Templeman emphasised that many students are career changers, with around one-third of horticultural students enrolling for a new career path. Templeman reiterated the government's commitment to Free TAFE, citing more than 850,000 students supported and 275,000 course completions between 2023 and mid-2026.

Rebello thanked apprentices and TAFE staff but argued that the government's investment has not alleviated skills shortages in the construction sector. Rebello noted that Housing Industry Australia estimates an additional 83,000 tradies are needed to meet housing targets, particularly ahead of the Olympics in Queensland. Rebello claimed that overall funding for vocational education and training activities has dropped, largely due to the reduction of employer incentives from over $4.01 billion to $1.54 billion. Rebello urged the government to focus on employment outcomes rather than just enrolment numbers.

French shared his personal experience of using TAFE twice, first to gain entry to university and later to become an electrician. French argued that Free TAFE removes financial barriers for apprentices who often struggle with costs while earning low wages. French highlighted that over 850,000 spots in the free TAFE scheme had been filled since 2023, with the program now permanent. French stated that vocational training leads to better employment outcomes and higher earnings, benefiting both individuals and employers who train future workers.

Roberts supported the motion, detailing the success of Free TAFE in Western Australia, where enrolments exceeded targets by almost 400 per cent. Roberts noted that 851,025 enrolments occurred nationally between 2023 and 2026, with significant participation from women, jobseekers, and First Nations Australians. Roberts cited research showing that within a year of finishing their course, VET graduates saw a median income rise of $11,800, with 84 per cent employed after finishing their qualification. Roberts emphasised that the Free TAFE Act 2025 guarantees 100,000 places annually from 2027, providing certainty for families and workers.