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Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people
Unlock your potential with specialised courses and support from TAFE Queensland.
At TAFE Queensland we understand the unique needs of our Indigenous student community. That's why we offer a range of courses and support 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.
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.
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.
Find out more about our 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.
RATEP
How it works
RATEP is a community-based teacher education program that 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. Students can 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.
Scholarships
There are a range of scholarships offered by TAFE Queensland and other organisations that may fund part or all of your studies.
TAFE Queensland Scholarships
We offer two type of scholarships to eligible students. Merit scholarships are awarded to students who can demonstrate that they will do well in the industry in which they apply for the scholarship. Access and equity scholarships provide equitable access to study at TAFE Queensland.
Learn moreIndigenous 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 Remove 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 morePayment 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.
Reconciliation 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.