Flexible learning and Fee-Free TAFE offering pathways back into the workforce

Posted on 23 January, 2026

If you have new year/new skills/new job energy but don’t know where to start, there are more ways to learn and grow than ever before, especially through the flexible and supportive programs at the Canberra Institute of Technology (CIT).

“Before Fee-Free TAFE, I wasn’t sure whether I wanted to commit to a career path that involved taking on debt, as it felt very daunting. But once I had the option to study without the financial burden, there was no hesitation for me to continue my education,” says CIT student Brandon, who is now pursuing his dream career after completing a Free TAFE course at CIT.

Brandon’s experience echoes the reality for many: flexible study options and tuition-free training help make learning accessible to people at different stages of life, whether they’re returning from time away for family, health, travel, or other commitments.

CIT’s range of flexible learning options, including self-paced online study, blended delivery, and campus-based options across Woden, Bruce, Fyshwick, Gungahlin and Tuggeranong, means you can build your skills in ways that fit around your life. For many courses, you can start when it suits you and study where you want, and no matter which CIT course you choose, you’ll have access to support services when you need them.

According to CIT Education Advisor David Smith, this flexibility is intentional.

“Our flexible courses allow students to work at their own pace and at their own time,” David explains.

“Some people like to study at night after the kids are in bed, others get up early, and some save it all for the weekend. You can revisit lessons as often as you need or push ahead when you’re ready.”

This approach recognises that learners returning to study after a break may have different needs and responsibilities, and that practical, relevant training matters just as much as convenience.

Fee-Free TAFE: Removing financial barriers

Fee-Free TAFE offers increased accessibility to vocational education and training at CIT. In 2026, CIT will continue to offer 600 Fee-Free TAFE places per semester, helping more Canberrans to start a career, change direction or upgrade their skills without the burden of tuition fees. Fee-Free TAFE is a jointly funded initiative of the Commonwealth, state and territory governments to support.

As CIT Fee-Free TAFE student Brandon explains, “it’s a chance to gain new skills and discover a career path you might not have considered otherwise.”

Fee-Free TAFE places are available across a variety of in-demand areas such as education, construction, hospitality and workplace literacy and are designed to help people step back into the workforce with confidence.

Pathways that work for you

CIT doesn’t just offer vocational qualifications; it connects students with pathways that match their aspirations. For some, that means stepping directly into employment. For others, it’s a stepping stone to further study. CIT now offers guaranteed pathways to the University of Canberra (UC), allowing diploma graduates in areas such as nursing, business, design, government and education to move directly into a related UC bachelor’s degree with recognised credit for their prior study.

Whether you’re refreshing skills from a previous career or learning something new entirely, the flexible study options, pathway opportunities and Fee-Free TAFE places at CIT give people the chance to balance life, learning and work on their own terms.

In-demand skills sorted

CIT’s Fee-Free TAFE courses are shaped around the skills Australia needs right now, giving people confidence that the time they invest in learning can lead to real employment outcomes.

Since its inception in 2023, Fee-Free TAFE has played a crucial role in supporting equitable access to education and training in the ACT with strong participation across the community among priority cohorts, including women, First Nations, young people, job seekers, carers, people with a disability and culturally diverse learners.

For many women in particular, Fee-Free TAFE has offered a practical and supported way back into the workforce, opening doors to stable, meaningful careers in sectors where their skills, experience and perspectives are needed.

If you’re curious, motivated or simply ready for a fresh start, CIT’s Twilight Enrolment Session is the perfect low-pressure way to explore your options. You’ll have the opportunity to speak directly with CIT teachers and student support staff to learn more about training and career pathways.

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