VET COURSES

Whether you’re looking to move straight into the workforce or to take an initial step in your tertiary education, an Australian Vocational Education and Training (VET) qualification can take you where you want to go.

Australia’s VET sector is based on a partnership between governments and industry. VET qualifications are provided by government institutions, called Technical and Further Education (TAFE) institutions, as well as private institutions (RTOs).

Australian governments (federal and state) provide funding, develop policies, and contribute to regulation and quality assurance of the sector. Industry and employer groups contribute to training policies and priorities, and in developing qualifications that deliver skills to the workforce.

Vocational education and training (VET) qualifications

VET qualifications are outcome-based and focus on the occupational skills and competencies gained. The Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF) recognises prior learning or current competence in the industry.

This makes credit transfer easier and offers students flexible learning pathways. Qualifications range across four levels of certificates (Certificate I, II, III and IV), as well as Diploma courses and Advanced Diploma courses.

Listed below are the qualifications and possible career outcomes of Australian VET courses:

Certificate I

Duration: 4 to 6 months
Career outcome: Competent operator

Certificate II

Duration: About 1 year
Career outcome: Advanced operator

Certificate III

Duration: About 1 year
Career outcome: Qualified tradesperson or technician

Certificate IV

Duration: 12 to 18 months
Career outcome: Advanced operator

Diploma

Duration: 18 to 24 months
Career outcome: Para-professional

Advanced Diploma

Duration: 24 to 36 months
Career outcome: Junior manager