What Are Government Funded Courses (and Who Can Access Them in WA)?

Curious about government funded courses in WA? Here’s what they are, how they work, who’s eligible, and how to get started with fee‑free or subsidised training.

If you’ve been Googling “government funded courses”, “fee‑free courses Perth” or “free courses WA” lately, you’re definitely not alone. Western Australians are jumping at the chance to study qualifications with reduced or no tuition fees, especially in high‑demand industries like early childhood education, aged care, disability support, business, and Work Health and Safety.

But what actually are government funded courses? Who can access them? And how do you apply?

Here’s a clear, simple breakdown to help you figure out what’s available, whether you’re eligible, and how AIWT can support your next step.

What Are Government Funded Courses?

Government funded courses are nationally recognised training programs where part (or sometimes all) of the tuition fees are subsidised by the WA Department of Training and Workforce Development (DTWD).

They’re designed to help Western Australians gain skills the state needs, especially in industries facing workforce shortages.

Funding comes in a few different forms:

1. Fee‑Free Courses

These have no tuition fees for eligible students. You may still have to cover minor resource fees, but the course cost itself is funded.

2. Subsidised Courses

These come with a reduced course fee, as the government covers a large portion of the cost.

3. Priority Industry Training

These are qualifications in areas where WA urgently needs more workers, such as aged care, disability support, childcare and safety roles.

Why Does WA Offer Funded Courses?

Because the state needs skilled workers. The goal is to:

Support people entering the workforce.
Help career changers retrain.
Strengthen skills in essential industries.
Make study more accessible for Western Australians.

It’s a win for students, and a win for WA’s workforce.

Who Can Access Government Funded Courses?

Eligibility depends on the type of funding, but typically, you may qualify if you are:

An Australian citizen.
A permanent resident.
A visa holder with eligible status.
Living in Western Australia.
Aged 15 years or older and not at school (or meet the youth criteria).

Some funding programs also support:

Job seekers.
Career changers.
Parents returning to work.
People affected by redundancy.
New migrants (depending on visa type).

Every program has its own rules, so if you’re unsure, just ask the team at AIWT and we can guide you through it.

What Can You Study Through Government Funding?

Depending on the year and funding priority list, eligible students in WA may study courses such as:

Early Childhood Education

Aged Care & Disability Support

CHC33021 Certificate III in Individual Support (Ageing and Disability)

Work Health and Safety

BSB41419 Certificate IV in Work Health and Safety

Other high‑priority sectors

Business
Health
Community services
Education support

Funding availability changes each year, so checking the current list is always a good idea.

How to Apply for a Government Funded Course

The process is much simpler than people think:

Step 1: Choose your course

Decide the industry or qualification you’re interested in. Check the qualifications listed on AIWT’s funding page to see the courses.

Step 2: Check your eligibility

Chat with AIWT or check the eligibility rules for DTWD-funded training.

Step 3: Provide your ID

Proof of residency and citizenship/visa status is required.

Step 4: Enrol through an approved training provider

AIWT is proud to offer funded training for eligible students across multiple qualifications.

If you’re unsure which course suits you, talking with our team can be really helpful, we can explain your options in plain English and help you feel confident about your next step.

Why Consider a Government Funded Course?

Lower or no tuition fees.
More accessible pathways into high‑demand careers.
Support for job seekers or career changers.
Industry-recognised qualifications.
A great way to skill up without financial pressure.

It’s one of the most affordable ways to gain a qualification in WA.

Ready to explore your options?

If you’d like help figuring out which government funded courses you’re eligible for, we’re here to guide you. Check the qualifications listed on AIWT’s funding page and then get in contact with AIWT.

Contact the AIWT team
Ask about fee‑free and subsidised courses and start planning your next step toward a new career. Whether you’re upskilling, starting fresh or returning to work, we’re here to help make the process simple and stress‑free.

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Disclaimer: The content in this blog is for informational purposes only and should not be considered professional advice. Course availability, content, funding, and eligibility criteria may change. For the latest updates and full enrolment information, please visit aiwt.edu.au or contact our admissions team directly. AIWT does not guarantee employment outcomes upon course completion.