Federation TAFE

Our vocational education courses offer pathways to further study or employment, helping to support local industry and regional communities.

Institutes and schools

Institute of Education, Arts and Community (IEAC)Institute of Health and Wellbeing (IHW)Institute of Innovation, Science and Sustainability (IISS)

Graduate Research School (GRS)Federation University Online

Federation TAFE is Victoria’s only dual‑sector regional and rural TAFE and university – and that makes us a little different. We bring together hands‑on training, real industry partnerships and deep regional knowledge to help build the skilled workforce our communities need to thrive.

We offer a broad range of pre‑employment, trade, post‑trade and entry‑ to mid‑level qualifications. Every course is designed in collaboration with employers, which means our training stays aligned with industry needs and supports strong employment outcomes for students.

Explore our courses and fees

Study areas

Our TAFE courses give you the best of both worlds – theoretical knowledge and hands-on work experience. Find a course that matches your interests and ambitions.

Find a course

Free TAFE

We currently offer a range of fully funded courses under the Government's Free TAFE initiative. Explore the options and find out if you qualify for a place.

Find out if you're eligible

Federation TAFE locations

SMB Campus

Mt Helen Campus

Gillies St Campus

Wimmera Campus

APRETC Ballarat

APRETC Gippsland

Get free career advice

Not sure what to study? The Skills and Jobs Centre team offers free career, employment and training advice to all members of the community. Drop in or book an appointment.

2025 TAFE Awards

Federation TAFE was a finalist in the Large Training Provider of the Year category and Federation baking student Stavriana Taliadoros was the School-based Apprentice or Trainee of the Year winner.

Our students in action

Unistyle salon

Our training salon at SMB gives hair and beauty students the chance to apply their knowledge and skills by working for real clients.

Learn more

Prospects restaurant

Our licensed training restaurant at SMB is open to the public at various times through the year for dine-in service, takeaway and functions.

Learn more

Access TAFE student resources

If you'd like to download our current VET info guide or read about placement and support services, head to our TAFE resources page.

We are putting students at the centre of everything we do, providing them with meaningful qualifications that are aligned to industry needs and getting them into jobs sooner through our co-operative education model."

— Darren Gray, Federation TAFE Chief Executive and Pro Vice‑Chancellor, VET and Pathways

TAFE pathways

Latest TAFE news

11 September 2025

Federation’s Aboriginal Education Centre to launch new career pathways program alongside student camp

11 June 2024

Federation’s Connected Classrooms technology reaching more students

23 May 2024

Beauty courses nailing it

Federation TAFE in correctional facilities

We're contracted to deliver courses in a number of prisons and post‑sentence facilities across central and western Victoria. Read more about this program.

Interested in teaching?

We're always looking for passionate industry experts who can pass on their knowledge to the next generation. Search our careers webpage for current opportunities.