How to Get Government Funding for a Childcare Course

Many students ask, “How can I afford a childcare course?”

The good news is that in Australia, there are government funding options that can help cover your course fees, sometimes even the full cost.

At Enable College, we believe money shouldn’t stop you from chasing your dream. If you want to work with children and make a real difference, we’re here to help you understand your funding options and take the next step towards your future.

In this article, we’ll explain how government funding works, who can apply, and how Enable College can support you from start to finish.

What Is Government Funding?

Government funding means the Australian Government helps pay for your education. It’s designed to make training more affordable, especially in important industries like early childhood education.

If you’re eligible, you may be able to:

• Study for free or at a reduced cost

   

• Get support with materials or learning needs

   

• Gain a nationally recognised qualification without big debts

   

This support can help you complete your Certificate III or Diploma in Early Childhood Education and Care—qualifications needed to start a career in childcare.

Who Can Get Government Funding?

Funding is available to many students across Australia, but you must meet a few basic conditions. While the rules can vary slightly in each state, you may qualify if you:

• Live in Australia as a citizen, permanent resident, or hold an eligible visa

   

• Are aged 16 or older (some states may require you to be 17 or 18)

   

• Don’t already hold a higher qualification (like a university degree)

   

• Are looking for work, wanting to upskill, or planning a career change

   

Some groups may be given priority, such as:

• Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples

   

• Young people (aged 17–24)

   

• People receiving Centrelink payments

   

• Unemployed or underemployed individuals

   

Not sure if you qualify for government funding? Don’t worry—Enable College can help check your eligibility and guide you through the next steps.

What Types of Funding Are Available?

Different states in Australia offer different funding programs. Here are some of the most common ones:

1. Skills First (Victoria)

This program gives eligible Victorians access to free or low-cost courses in key industries like childcare. Usually, you can only get funding for one course at each qualification level.

2. Smart and Skilled (New South Wales)

Smart and Skilled helps people in NSW with subsidised training to enter or re-enter the workforce. Childcare is often listed as a high-priority course.

3. Jobs and Skills WA (Western Australia)

In WA, you may be able to study for free or at a discount if your course is on the state’s priority list. Childcare courses are often included.

4. Subsidised Training in South Australia

In South Australia, many childcare students are eligible for funding. Enable College is an approved provider, meaning eligible students can access subsidies for courses like the CHC30121 Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care.

What Courses Can I Study with Funding?

At Enable College, we offer nationally recognised childcare courses that are often supported by government funding:

CHC30121 Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care

This is the entry-level qualification to work in childcare. You’ll learn how to support children’s development, create safe environments, and assist with daily routines in childcare centres.

CHC50125 Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care

This advanced course builds on the Certificate III and prepares you for leadership roles. You’ll learn how to plan and manage education programs and support other educators.

Many of our students can study these courses for free or at a reduced cost with government support.

Studying with Enable College

We’re proud to help students build strong careers in early childhood education. When you study with Enable College, you’ll get:

• Government-funded training (if eligible) 
• Flexible study options – online, in-person, or blended learning 
• Friendly support from enrolment to graduation 
• Real-world experience with practical placements in childcare centres 

Whether you’ve just finished school, want a career change, or are returning to study, Enable College is here to guide and support you.

How to Apply for Government Funding

Applying for funding might sound tricky, but we make it simple. Here’s how to get started:

1. Contact Enable College – We’ll check your eligibility and explain your funding options. 
2. Choose your course – We’ll help you pick the right course based on your goals. 
3. Apply for funding – Our team will help with the paperwork and guide you through the process. 
4. Enrol and begin – Once your funding is approved, you can start your studies and move towards a career in childcare. 

Many students are surprised at how easy it is once they have the right support.

Why Work in Childcare?

Childcare is more than just a job—it’s a rewarding and meaningful career. You’ll help children grow, learn, and feel safe every day.

The childcare industry in Australia is growing fast, and skilled workers are in high demand. With the right training, you can find work in:

• Daycare centres 
• Preschools 
• Family daycare 
• Kindergarten support roles 

Whether you want to work with babies, toddlers or preschoolers, your journey starts with the right qualification—and government funding can help get you there.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I study childcare for free?

Yes, in many cases you can. If you meet the eligibility requirements, government funding may cover all or part of your childcare course fees. Some students can study completely free, especially if the course is on the government’s priority list.

What childcare courses are funded by the government?

Government funding often covers nationally recognised courses like:

• CHC30121 Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care
• CHC50125 Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care

These are the main qualifications needed to work in childcare across Australia.

Am I eligible for government funding?

You may be eligible if you:

• Are an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or on an eligible visa 
• Are 16 years or older 
• Don’t already have a higher qualification 
• Are looking for work or planning a career change 

Each state has slightly different rules, so it’s best to contact Enable College to check your individual situation.

How do I apply for childcare course funding?

It’s simple with Enable College.

1. Contact our team to check your eligibility. 
2. Choose your childcare course. 
3. Apply for funding with our help. 
4. Enrol and begin your training. 

We guide you through each step so you’re never on your own.

Can I study online with government funding?

Yes, many government-funded childcare courses at Enable College are available online, in-person, or blended. You can choose the learning style that fits your lifestyle and needs.

Will I get a job after completing the course?

Childcare is a growing industry in Australia. With the right training and qualifications, you’ll have a strong chance of finding work in childcare centres, kindergartens, or family daycares. Enable College also helps students with real-world placements during their course.

Summary

Thinking of a Career in Childcare? Government Funding Can Help You Get Started
Want to work with children but worried about course fees? Government funding in Australia can help cover the cost of childcare training, and in some cases, it’s completely free.

At Enable College, we offer nationally recognised childcare courses like the Certificate III and Diploma in Early Childhood Education and Care, both of which are often supported by government funding. Whether you’re fresh out of school, changing careers, or looking to upskill, you could be eligible, especially if you’re aged 17–24, on Centrelink, or looking for work.

We make applying easy. Our friendly team will check your eligibility, guide you through the paperwork, and support you from enrolment to graduation. Study online, in-person or a mix of both—and gain hands-on experience through real childcare placements.

Contact Enable College today to see if you qualify.

Ready to Take the First Step?

Don’t let the cost of study stop you from starting a career you love. With government funding and the support of Enable College, you can start training for a future in childcare today.

Contact us now to check your eligibility and find the best course for your goals.