The Free TAFE Initiative has been credited for increasing female participation in traditionally male-dominated TAFE courses.

Minster for Training and Skills Gayle Tierney said Free TAFE was boosting female participation in VET training across the board, including in pre-apprenticeship courses, which have traditionally been dominated by men.

“Our Free TAFE initiative is empowering women to forge careers in traditionally male dominated industries like cyber security and construction courses.”

Compared to last year, female participation in male-dominated courses such as building and construction have increased by seven percent. The number of women in Free TAFE pre-apprenticeships have also increased to fourteen percent.

By helping to reduce some of the financial barriers women may experience, particularly when re-entering the workforce after caring for children or family members, Free TAFE aims to support women to get the skills and training they need to enter jobs in any industry.

Free TAFE courses with more flexible training options like weekend and evening classes are also assisting women with managing potential personal barriers to retraining.

“Not only is Free TAFE changing people’s lives and careers, but it is also playing a role in breaking down barriers for women – barriers which contribute to the gender pay gap” said the Minister.

If you’ve considered taking on a trade, or retraining in a field that is traditionally male-dominated, now could be the perfect time to see what Free TAFE courses are available to you.