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Choose a training organisation and course
There are thousands of vocational courses delivered by registered training organisations (RTOs) in Queensland. Choosing the right one for your apprentice or trainee will depend on factors such as location, fees, subsidies, delivery method, pre-requisites and support services. It pays to shop around and compare courses.
There are also thousands of RTOs in Queensland. Depending on the course and location, you may have many options to choose from. The Queensland Government approves certain RTOs to provide free or subsidised training depending on the priority of apprenticeship or traineeship.
This guide helps you compare RTOs and courses using checklists and comparison tools.
Choose a registered training organisation
There are thousands of registered training organisations (RTOs) delivering vocational courses in Queensland.
Depending on the course and location, you may have many options to choose from.
These may differ in duration, cost and delivery method (campus or online) and mode (part-time, full-time or school-based) as well as quality and suitability.
Choosing an RTO
Learn about how to choose a registered training organisation that meets your needs.
Do your own research
It's important to search for a training organisation that suits your business rather than simply relying on someone's recommendation.
Employers are often recommended training organisations based on familiarity rather than suitability.
Do your own research. Like any product, it pays to shop around. Find out who will give you the best deal.
Training organisation comparison checklist
Make sure to ask your potential training organisation about:
- fees and other charges (see subsidised training organisations below)
- refund policies
- the resources provided as part of the course fee and what you need to provide
- duration
- timetable for delivery
- location/s of training delivery and assessment
- method of delivery and hours of attendance
- the assessment requirements
- how assessments are done (e.g. in a real workplace vs a simulated environment)
- support services provided, particularly in the case of online or distance delivery
- whether the training can be customised to suit your needs
- complaints processes
- job prospects on completion
- feedback from past students.
Don't be afraid to:
- ask questions in general
- ask to see their refund policies
- ask for the list of the competencies included in the training.
Training provider comparison table
Subsidised training organisations
A pre-approved group of training organisations, called 'Skills Assure suppliers', are funded to deliver subsidised, entry-level training to Queensland apprentices and trainees.
However, not all apprenticeships and traineeships are funded; only those that are listed on our Priority Skills List. This list changes annually depending on industry demands and government budgets.
Priority Skills List
Search for qualifications and skill sets that attract a government subsidy under the VET investment budget.
Choose a training course
There are thousands of vocational courses delivered by registered training organisations (RTOs) in Queensland.
Choosing the right one for your apprentice or trainee will depend on factors such as location, fees, subsidies, delivery method, pre-requisites and support services. It pays to shop around.
Course comparison checklist
When comparing training courses, things to consider include:
- course availability
- course details (electives, assessment, delivery mode, credit)
- course outcomes (qualification type, percentage of successful students)
- costs and refunds (fees, subsidies)
- requirements (prerequisites, computer literacy)
- training facilities.
Comparison tool
Subsidised training
Eligibility tool from Queensland Skills Gateway
To check your eligibility for government subsidised training in Queensland, use our eligibility tool.
Search tool from Queensland Skills Gateway
The Queensland Skills Gateway has different ways to search for funded courses:
- Search for a course (e.g. 'plumbing' or 'Certificate III in Plumbing') and view providers who are listed as 'yes' or 'no' under the 'Funded' column.
- Search for a course (e.g. 'plumbing' or 'Certificate III in Plumbing') and view details under each listing. The 'Funded under' section tells you how the course is funded and where to go to for more information.
- Refine your search options to select all subsidised courses or only those funded under specific programs like 'User Choice'. Select 'Apply filter' to your results.
Subsidised training programs
Free apprenticeships for under 25s
Learn about fully subsidised training in eligible high priority qualifications for young apprentices and trainees (25 years and under).
User Choice
Read about the User Choice program, providing a funding contribution to the cost of apprenticeships and traineeships in Queensland.
Fee-Free TAFE
Find out about free training (in eligible qualifications) available through TAFE Queensland and CQUniversity.
© The State of Queensland 1995–2024
- Last reviewed: 08 Sep 2021
- Last updated: 08 Sep 2021