New data released today by the National Centre for Vocational Education Research (NCVER) shows Australia’s government-funded vocational education and training (VET) sector recorded lower activity in 2025, with some areas of growth across the system.
There were 1,137,645 students in government-funded training in 2025, with most jurisdictions recording lower student numbers than the previous year.
Changes across jurisdictions varied, reflecting differences in local labour market conditions, policy settings and investment priorities. New South Wales recorded the largest decline in student numbers, while South Australia and Western Australia recorded modest growth supported by stronger participation among younger students.
Program enrolments fell nationally, largely due to flow-on effects from fewer commencements in nationally recognised qualifications and short courses in both 2025 and 2024. Enrolments were up however amongst non-nationally recognised programs and locally developed courses. Declines in enrolments were seen across both TAFEs and private training providers, consistent with variation in funding settings and levels across jurisdictions.
Enrolments in training package qualifications also declined nationally after strong growth in 2023 and 2024.The largest decreases were seen in business and service-related fields. While most areas declined, some technical training packages continued to grow, including electrotechnology, which has increased by around 44% since 2019 and supports Australia’s transition to Net Zero.
Training supporting entry to construction-related occupations presented a more nuanced picture. Certificate III and IV level construction trade and labourer enrolments declined from 2024, while participation in pathway and pre-apprenticeship qualifications among 15–19-year-olds increased. NCVER research indicates that participation in pre-apprenticeship programs can enhance the likelihood of completing an apprenticeship in the same field.
‘The 2025 data point to continuing shifts across the funded training system, with jurisdictions balancing workforce needs, policy priorities and investment settings’, said NCVER Managing Director John King.
Background:
Government-funded students and courses 2025 provides information on the number and characteristics of students undertaking government-funded VET in Australia during the year.
Download the report: Government-funded students and courses 2025
Enquiries: Elise Stone P: +61 8 8230 8443 E: communications@ncver.edu.au
About NCVER: we are the main provider of research, statistics and data on Australia’s VET sector. Our services help promote better understanding of VET and assist policy makers, practitioners, industry, training providers, and students to make informed decisions.
This work has been produced by NCVER on behalf of the Australian Government and state and territory governments, with funding provided through the Australian Government Department of Employment and Workplace Relations.