Six priority apprenticeships have been added to Victoria’s Free TAFE program for 2027, including a Certificate III in Baking.

From next year, the Victorian State Government will cover the cost of the first year of tuition fees for apprentices who begin one of these apprenticeships at TAFE.

A spokesperson said businesses, especially small businesses, in sectors with critical skills shortages will benefit, and adding the six apprenticeship courses to Free TAFE for 2027 will make it more affordable for businesses to take on new apprentices.

“In 2027 we’re continuing to invest in vocational education and training,” they said.

“We’re helping more Victorians start Free TAF and subsidised Skills First training courses at TAFE, Learn Locals and other community training providers, and private training providers.”

In addition to the Certificate III in Baking, the new apprenticeship courses include:

• Certificate III in Bricklaying and Blocklaying
• Certificate III in Carpentry
•  Certificate III in Electrotechnology Electrician
• Certificate III in Plumbing
• Certificate III in Hairdressing