Education and training

Australian Defence Force (ADF) members can explore a range of employment opportunities to help plan their transition from the military.

Defence to Civilian Success Training Program

In 2020 the Queensland Government announced a commitment to provide free TAFE and apprenticeships for up to 300 veterans transitioning to civilian employment.

The new ‘Defence to Civilian Success ’ training program, delivered in partnership with TAFE Queensland, includes support for transitioning ADF members to have their Defence qualifications recognised in a civilian context. This will be provided through a personalised training pathway designed to enhance employment opportunities.

Eligibility and program access criteria include:

• Eligible veterans are those who are currently transitioning from the ADF or have transitioned within the last two years.
• Veterans who served in, or are transitioning from, frontline or ex-combat roles are particularly encouraged to apply.
• Eligible veterans must live in Queensland.
• The maximum amount an individual veteran can access under this initiative is $3000.
• Due to the broad ranging types and costs of courses available, TAFE Queensland cannot guarantee the selected course will be fully funded under this initiative.
• Courses are limited to TAFE Queensland courses only.
• Expenses incurred from previous training programs are not eligible for reimbursement.
• Family members of veterans are not eligible to access funding under this initiative.

ADF members who are planning to transition and would like to upskill to enhance their civilian employment opportunities should email the team at TAFE Queensland for further information.

Skilling Queenslanders for Work

Skilling Queenslanders for Work helps eligible unemployed or underemployed Queenslanders, including ex-ADF personnel and their families, to develop skills, gain qualifications, and provide direct assistance to enter and stay in the workforce.

A network of community-based organisations across the state deliver personalised assistance to help address personal, health, and social issues to enable participants to return to the workforce. There is no cost to participate in the program and prior qualifications do not impact eligibility.

Find out more about the Skilling Queenslanders for Work program.

More information

Find out more about a range of education and training opportunities, including how to access career counselling.