Queensland vocational education provider breaks new ground with $1.4 million funding round targeting healthcare workforce challenges
TAFE Queensland has launched Australia’s first competitive applied research grants program through its Centres of Excellence, marking a significant milestone in vocational education and training.
The institution is offering $1.4 million in its inaugural funding round through the TAFE Centre of Excellence Health Care and Support, with applications closing 31 July 2025.
TAFE Queensland Chief Executive Officer John Tucker emphasised the urgent need for skilled healthcare workers, noting that “health care and social assistance is Australia’s largest employing industry, with the workforce growing by more than 73,000 in the last year.”
The grants aim to develop innovative training solutions for industry-identified challenges, particularly in aged care. Priority areas include accessible education models for rural and remote communities and culturally appropriate workforce training programs.
“With $1.4 million in grant funding available, we anticipate a highly competitive first round, and look forward to collaborating with researchers, universities, industry, and community groups to find real solutions to industry challenges,” Tucker said.
The program represents a shift toward evidence-based training development, with applied research focusing on practical solutions to everyday workplace problems.
TAFE Queensland operates two of the 12 Centres of Excellence announced nationwide since 2024 – the Health Care and Support centre and the Clean Energy Batteries centre. Both are joint initiatives between federal and state governments running through 2028.
Tucker highlighted the strategic importance of the program, stating that “with strong future job growth predicted, the Centre’s applied research grants will support the development of targeted training to build a skilled workforce, ensuring the long-term growth and sustainability of this vital industry.”
The grants are open nationally to researchers, universities, industry bodies and community organisations. Additional funding rounds are planned over the coming years as other TAFE Centres of Excellence across Australia prepare to launch similar programs.
Applications are available through the TAFE Queensland website at tafeqld.edu.au/tce-grants.
Ritchelle is a Content Producer for Healthcare Channel, Australia’s premier resource of information for healthcare.
