A common question we get asked is “Is there funding available for this course?”. So we thought we’d write a blog article explaining the different funding programs that you may be eligible for, for our courses.
Currently, there are a number of government funded programs that support job seekers, those looking to change career paths, or those looking to upskill in their current role. The programs will usually include funding that can be used for training, as well as career guidance, and can be a huge help in achieving your goals. Below is an outline of some of these programs.
Mid-Career Checkpoint
This government program has been established to support 3 different categories of people in re-joining, or advancing, in the workforce. The program includes:
- tailored career advice & coaching
- a customised Skills, Training and Employment Plan that details your employment goals, and identifies your attributes, skills and qualifications, as well as any skills gaps
- potential funding of up to $3,000 for accredited training that supports your career goals
Am I eligible?
The Mid Career Checkpoint program has 3 entry points:
- Stepping Back In: you have been out of the paid workforce for six months or more, to care for a child/relative/friend, and are looking to return to work or advance your career.
- Stepping Up: you have recently (in the last 18 months) returned to work, after having taken six months or more off, to care for a child/relative/friend
- General Entry: you are an existing worker in a COVID-affected industry, which includes:
- Accommodation and Food Services
- Education and Training
- Arts and Recreation Services
- Retail Trade
- Administration and Support Services
- Residential Care Services
- Child Care Services
To be eligible to access assistance:
- participants must be an Australian citizen or permanent resident OR
- New Zealand (NZ) citizens who are Protected Special Category Visa (SCV) holders may be eligible for the program. Eligibility of NZ citizens with a SCV444 is determined by when the individual first arrived in Australia:
- If they arrived on or before 26 February 2001, they are a permanent resident for citizenship purposes and therefore are eligible for the Program (subject to meeting the other eligibility criteria).
- If they arrived after 26 February 2001, they are not considered a permanent resident for citizenship purposes and are not eligible for the Program.
An example of who might be able to take advantage of the MCC program, would be someone who is currently working in a Registered Training Organisation (RTO), ie the Education & Training industry, and would like to obtain their TAE40116 Certificate IV in Training & Assessment qualification.
For further information, contact our office or get in touch with Busy at Work.
Skills Checkpoint Program
If you are:
- betweeen the ages of 40 and 70 years old,
- are an Australian citizen or permanent resident,
- employed & at risk of entering the income support system, OR
- recently unemployed (within the last 3 months), and not registered for assistance through an Australian Government employement services program,
you may be eligible for 50% funding under the Skills Checkpoint Program. For more information please call Busy At Work (for NT, QLD, SA, TAS & WA), or Verto (for ACT, NSW & VIC).
Student Payments
Eligible students enrolling into our TAE40116 Certificate IV in Training & Assessment course, on a full-time study basis, may be eligible for student payments through Services Australia – please contact Services Australia for more information.
If you’re still not sure about your eligibility, give us a call on 1300 328 500, and we will guide you through your options.
