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Information for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people
Unlock your potential at TAFE Queensland with courses and services specifically designed to support Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students.
About TAFE Queensland
With dedicated Indigenous student support, specialised 'away from base' residential block training, and our partnership in the RATEP, TAFE Queensland is well suited to help you reach your education goals.
How we can help
Student support
In addition to our comprehensive range of student support services including learning support, counselling, and careers and employment services, we also have dedicated support services for our Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students.
We have a range of student support services available for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students. Get assistance with career and employment advice, choosing the right course or pathway, financial assistance, funding opportunities, accommodation, and learning and study support.
Our dedicated ISSOs provide tailored support designed to meet the unique needs of our Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students. ISSOs can provide assistance with enrolment processes, Centrelink ABSTUDY enquiries, tutor support, referrals to other community service providers and personal support.
The Indigenous Youth Mobility Program provides accommodation options for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students wishing to relocate from a remote or regional community to study or take up an apprenticeship. You must be between 16-24 years of age and engaging in accredited training to be eligible.
Explore our study areas
Take a look at everything we have on offer by the area of study that interests you the most. Choose from over 500 entry-level certificates to degree-level courses across a wide variety of industries. Whatever your interest, we know you’ll find a pathway to your dream career.
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Business and IT
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Creative industries
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Education and community
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Environment and animal services
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Health and science
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Infrastructure and transport
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Service industries
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Trades
RATEP - community-based education
The RATEP program assists Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people to become registered teachers or qualified teacher aides. The program is a partnership between TAFE Queensland, James Cook University, and the Queensland Education Department. Choose to study at a number of RATEP sites throughout Queensland, as well as a via an off-site model. Successful completion of a certificate or diploma course in education or child care with TAFE Queensland opens up pathways towards a Bachelor of Education qualification at James Cook University.
SEE program explained
If you’re looking for full-time work, and are registered as a job seeker with Centrelink, you may be eligible for the Skills for Education and Employment (SEE) program. Offered through TAFE Queensland, the program will help you practice interviewing for jobs, earn qualifications to stand out in the hiring process, and learn new skills in areas including retail, business, IT, and hospitality.
Away from Base courses
You don't need to live near one of our campuses to study a course with us. We deliver a number of courses via residential study blocks. These courses are registered as Away from Base Mixed-Mode Program (AFB) courses, which mean you may be able to have your travel, accommodation and meal allowances paid for you when you attend residential blocks. To be eligible you must qualify for ABSTUDY and meet other entry requirements.
Payment options
If you don't qualify for a scholarship there are plenty of other options available to help you pay your course fees. Find out about our full range of payment options including loans, payment plans, as well as subsidised training and concessions
Scholarships
Indigenous health scholarships
The Puggy Hunter Memorial Scholarship Scheme is designed to assist undergraduate students in health-related disciplines to complete their studies and join the workforce. It provides scholarships for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people studying an entry-level health course.
Learn moreCare2Achieve Scholarships
Young women between 17-21 years old who are leaving or have left care are eligible for a Care2Achieve scholarship to complete tertiary studies through university or TAFE. The scholarship offers financial support, mentoring and assistance in connecting with future potential employers.
Learn morePearl Duncan Teaching Scholarship
The Pearl Duncan Teaching Scholarship is open to participants in the Remote Area Teacher Education Program (RATEP). It provides up to $20,000 over four years as well as the opportunity of a permanent teacher position at a Queensland state school.
Learn moreOther Queensland Government Scholarships
There are a number other Queensland Government related scholarships accessible for First Nations people.
Learn moreReconciliation Action Plan (RAP)
TAFE Queensland's Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP) has been developed to demonstrate our commitment to closing the gap to ensure our first Australians are afforded the same opportunities for learning and prosperity that everyone enjoys in Australia.