TAFE Awards for Excellence
TAFE Awards for Excellence recognise students who have done exceptionally well in their studies and teachers who have gone above and beyond in the learning environment. Nominations can be made by TAFE students, teachers or program managers (and yes – you can nominate yourself). There are 19 award categories, and each has its own eligibility criteria and prize. The winners are invited to attend an awards ceremony in February.
Nominations are now open
How to submit a nomination
- Download the nomination form from the relevant category below.
- Complete all the required information.
- Gather your supporting documentation.
- Ask your program manager for an endorsement.
- Upload the form and any supporting evidence before the closing date.
If you think the person you're nominating is eligible for more than one award category, that's fine – there's no limit for nominations. You'll need to complete a different form for each, but you might be able to duplicate some of the supporting evidence.
Major awards
This award recognises a Federation TAFE student who has demonstrated outstanding achievement throughout their studies. It celebrates students who have excelled academically while demonstrating leadership, professionalism, outstanding communication skills and a commitment to their industry and community. The successful recipient will receive a $500 cash prize, proudly sponsored by the City of Ballarat.
To be eligible for this award, applicants must:
- be a permanent resident of Victoria
- have completed, or be due to complete, their training between 1 July 2026 and 31 December 2026 in a nationally recognised vocational qualification
- not be enrolled at Federation TAFE after 31 December 2026
Download the EJT Tippett Outstanding Achievement Award nomination form (PDF 182 KB)
This award recognises an outstanding apprentice from any discipline who has demonstrated excellence throughout their apprenticeship. Applicants should have shown exceptional technical ability, commitment to learning, professionalism and a positive contribution to their workplace and industry.
The recipient will receive a $500 cash prize, proudly sponsored by the Rotary Club of Ballarat South. This award aligns with the Victorian Training Awards – Apprentice of the Year category.
To be eligible for this award, applicants must:
- be a permanent resident of Victoria
- have completed, or be due to complete, their apprenticeship between 1 July and 31 December 2026
- be undertaking a training course leading to a nationally recognised qualification relevant to the award
- have, or have had, a registered Training Contract with the Victorian Registration and Qualifications Authority (VRQA)
- not be enrolled in training after 31 December 2026.
Download the Federation TAFE Apprentice of the Year Award nomination form (PDF 185 KB)
This award recognises an outstanding trainee who has demonstrated excellence in all aspects of their training, including technical achievement, workplace contribution, leadership and commitment to vocational education. It celebrates trainees who have excelled throughout their training while demonstrating professionalism, strong communication skills and the potential to become ambassadors for vocational education and training. The successful recipient will receive a $500 cash prize, proudly sponsored by the City of Ballarat.
To be eligible for this award, applicants must:
- have completed, or be due to complete, their training between 1 July 2026 and 31 December 2026
- be enrolled in a training course leading to a nationally recognised qualification relevant to this award
- have completed, or be due to complete, their training in Victoria
- have a Training Contract registered with the Victorian Registration and Qualifications Authority (VRQA)
- not be enrolled at school
- be a permanent resident of Australia.
Download the Federation TAFE Trainee of the Year Award nomination form (PDF 187 KB)
This award recognises an Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander student who has demonstrated commitment to their studies, personal growth and success while undertaking vocational education and training at Federation TAFE. It celebrates students who demonstrate resilience, leadership, community connection and a commitment to achieving their educational and career aspirations. Up to three students may receive this award, with each recipient receiving a $1,000 cash prize, proudly sponsored by AEC.
To be eligible for this award, applicants must:
- be a permanent resident of Australia
- identify as an Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander person
- be enrolled at Federation TAFE
- have demonstrated commitment to their studies
- have completed their course or be continuing their studies at Federation TAFE in the following year
- meet the eligibility requirements of one of the following categories:
- apprentice
- trainee
- vocational student
- school-based apprentice or trainee (where applicable).
Download the Federation TAFE Growth Award for First Nations People nomination form (PDF 201 KB)
This award recognises a student who has completed the first year of an accredited Apprenticeship or Traineeship and will be continuing into their second year at Federation TAFE. It celebrates students who demonstrate perseverance, integrity, leadership and commitment to both their studies and their community. The successful recipient will receive a $1,000 cash prize, proudly sponsored by the Rotary Club of Ballarat.
To be eligible for this award, applicants must:
- have completed the first year of an accredited apprenticeship or traineeship
- be enrolled in the second year of their apprenticeship or traineeship at Federation TAFE
- demonstrate outstanding commitment to their studies, workplace and community.
Download the Rotary Club of Ballarat Endeavour Award nomination form (PDF 172 KB)
Industry awards
O'Connors Ballarat Award for Excellence
The successful recipient will receive a $250 cash prize, proudly sponsored by O'Connors Ballarat.
To be eligible for this award, applicants must:
- be enrolled in the Certificate III in Agriculture
- have demonstrated outstanding ability throughout their training
- have excelled in the understanding and practical use of agricultural machinery.
Download the O'Connors Ballarat Award for Excellence nomination form (PDF 171 KB)
Bursons Award
Two awards will be presented: Certificate II Automotive – $250 and Certificate III Automotive – $250. These prizes are proudly sponsored by Bursons.
To be eligible for this award, applicants must:
- be enrolled full-time in a Certificate II or Certificate III Automotive program
- have demonstrated a consistently high level of excellence throughout their studies
- have shown a strong commitment to their learning and professional development.
EOI Bakery Award
The successful recipient will receive a gift valued at $500, proudly sponsored by EOI.
To be eligible for this award, applicants must:
- be enrolled as a third-year apprentice in the Certificate III in Baking
- have demonstrated a consistently high level of excellence throughout their apprenticeship
- have shown a strong commitment to their learning and professional development.
Download the EOI Bakery Award nomination form (PDF 171 KB)
Van Rooy Award
The successful recipient will receive a gift valued at $600, proudly sponsored by Van Rooy.
To be eligible for this award, applicants must:
- be enrolled as a third-year apprentice in the Certificate III in Bread Baking
- have demonstrated a consistently high level of excellence throughout their apprenticeship
- have shown a strong commitment to their learning and professional development.
Dermalogica Award
This award celebrates students who excel in technical ability, creativity, customer service and professionalism, while demonstrating a strong commitment to their training. The successful recipient will receive a Dermalogica product pack valued at $250, proudly sponsored by Dermalogica.
To be eligible for this award, applicants must:
- have completed the Diploma of Beauty Therapy or Certificate III in Beauty Services
- have demonstrated excellence throughout their studies
- have consistently displayed professionalism, commitment and engagement throughout the course.
Download the Dermalogica Award nomination form (PDF 171 KB)
National Salon Supplies Award
The award celebrates students who excel in technical ability, creativity, customer service and professionalism, while demonstrating a strong commitment to their training. The successful recipient will receive a National Salon Supplies product pack valued at $250, proudly sponsored by National Salon Supplies.
To be eligible for this award, applicants must:
- have completed the Certificate III in Beauty Services
- have demonstrated excellence throughout their studies
- have consistently displayed professionalism, commitment and engagement throughout the course.
Download the National Salon Supplies Award nomination form (PDF 171 KB)
Basil Bowman Award
Up to four students may receive this award, with each recipient receiving a $250 cash prize, proudly sponsored by the Rotary Club of Ballarat South in memory of respected local builder Basil Bowman, who was a valued supporter of Federation TAFE students.
To be eligible for this award, applicants must:
- be enrolled in the Certificate III in Carpentry or Certificate III in Cabinet Making
- be studying at any stage of the program
- have demonstrated a consistently high level of excellence throughout their studies
- have shown a strong commitment to their learning and professional development.
Download the Basil Bowman Award nomination form (PDF 209 KB)
Laminex Group Award
The successful recipient will receive a $500 cash prize, proudly sponsored by Laminex Group.
To be eligible for this award, applicants must:
- be enrolled in a carpentry, joinery or cabinet making apprenticeship
- have demonstrated a consistently high level of excellence throughout their apprenticeship
- have shown a strong commitment to their learning and professional development.
Download the Laminex Group Award nomination form (PDF 171 KB)
Central Highlands Slow Food Award for Excellence
This award celebrates students who embrace food traditions, provenance and sustainability while demonstrating outstanding practical skills and innovation in the kitchen. The successful recipient will receive a $500 cash prize and a farm-to-table product development experience, proudly sponsored by Central Highlands Slow Food.
To be eligible for this award, applicants must:
- be enrolled as a third-year student in the Certificate III in Commercial Cookery
- demonstrate excellence in food production and culinary practice
- demonstrate a commitment to local, seasonal and ethical food production.
Download the Central Highlands Slow Food Award for Excellence nomination form (PDF 172 KB)
Dura-Wear Award for Excellence
Up to two students may receive this award, with each recipient receiving an equipment pack valued at $250, proudly sponsored by Dura-Wear.
To be eligible for this award, applicants must:
- be enrolled in the Certificate II in Kitchen Operations (or a similar cookery qualification)
- have demonstrated a consistently high level of excellence throughout their studies
- have shown a strong commitment to their learning and professional development.
Download the Dura-Wear Award for Excellence nomination form (PDF 172 KB)
Hip Pocket Workwear and Safety Award
The successful recipient will receive a $500 cash prize, proudly sponsored by Hip Pocket Workwear and Safety.
To be eligible for this award, applicants must:
- be enrolled as a third-year student in the Certificate III in Commercial Cookery
- have demonstrated a consistently high level of excellence throughout their studies
- have shown a strong commitment to their learning and professional development.
Download the Hip Pocket Workwear and Safety Award nomination form (PDF 172 KB)
Nature's Cargo Award
The successful recipient will receive a $250 cash prize, proudly sponsored by Nature's Cargo.
To be eligible for this award, applicants must:
- be enrolled in the first or second year of the Certificate III in Commercial Cookery
- have demonstrated a consistently high level of excellence throughout their studies
- have shown a strong commitment to their learning and professional development.
Download the Nature's Cargo Award nomination form (PDF 171 KB)
Electrical Safety Victoria (ESV) Electrotechnology Student Excellence Award
This award celebrates students who consistently demonstrate safe work practices and uphold the professional standards expected within the electrical industry. The successful recipient will receive a $250 cash prize, proudly sponsored by Electrical Safety Victoria (ESV).
To be eligible for this award, applicants must:
- be enrolled in an electrotechnology qualification at Federation TAFE
- have demonstrated excellence in both theoretical and practical learning
- have consistently applied electrical safety principles throughout their training
- have demonstrated professionalism and a commitment to industry standards.
Middy's Award
Up to two students may receive this award, with each recipient receiving a $500 cash prize, proudly sponsored by Middy's Western Region.
To be eligible for this award, applicants must:
- be enrolled in an electrotechnology course
- have demonstrated a consistently high level of excellence throughout their studies
- have shown a strong commitment to their learning and professional development.
Haircare Group Second Year Hairdressing Apprentice Award
The successful recipient will receive a Haircare Group product pack valued at $250, proudly sponsored by Haircare Group.
To be eligible for this award, applicants must:
- be enrolled as a second-year apprentice in the Certificate III in Hairdressing
- have demonstrated a consistently high level of excellence throughout their studies
- have shown a strong commitment to their learning and professional development.
Download the Haircare Group Second Year Hairdressing Apprentice Award nomination form (PDF 172 KB)
Revlon Professional Brands First Year Hairdressing Apprentice Award
The successful recipient will receive a Revlon Professional Brands product pack valued at $250, proudly sponsored by Revlon Professional Brands.
To be eligible for this award, applicants must:
- be enrolled as a first-year apprentice in the Certificate III in Hairdressing
- have demonstrated a consistently high level of excellence throughout their studies
- have shown a strong commitment to their learning and professional development.
Shear Genius Third Year Hairdressing Apprentice Award
The successful recipient will receive a Shear Genius scissor bundle valued at $800, proudly sponsored by Shear Genius.
To be eligible for this award, applicants must:
- be enrolled as a third-year apprentice in the Certificate III in Hairdressing
- have demonstrated a consistently high level of excellence throughout their apprenticeship
- have shown a strong commitment to their learning and professional development.
Download the Shear Genius Third Year Hairdressing Apprentice Award nomination form (PDF 172 KB)
Nursery and Garden Industry Victoria Horticulture Award for Excellence
The successful recipient will receive a prize package valued at over $500, proudly sponsored by Nursery and Garden Industry Victoria, that includes:
- a 12-month subscription to Groundswell, the industry's leading publication
- 12 months' access to the Southern Hemisphere's largest horticultural wholesale market
- a $200 gift voucher for the Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria gift shop
- entry for the recipient and their teacher to a Tree & Shrub Growers meeting or a NextGen event.
To be eligible for this award, applicants must:
- be a graduating student in the Certificate III in Horticulture
- have demonstrated a consistently high level of excellence throughout their studies
- have shown a strong commitment to their learning and professional development.
Rotary Club of Ballarat South Metal Trades Award
This award celebrates students who demonstrate integrity, determination, initiative and active community involvement while consistently striving for excellence in their chosen trade. Up to two students may receive this award, with each recipient receiving a $250 cash prize, proudly sponsored by the Rotary Club of Ballarat South.
To be eligible for this award, applicants must:
- be enrolled in a metal trades qualification at Federation TAFE
- have demonstrated a consistently high level of excellence throughout their studies
- have shown a strong commitment to their learning and professional development.
Download the Rotary Club of Ballarat South Metal Trades Award nomination form (PDF 172 KB)
Ballarat PlumbPro Award
The successful recipient will receive an apprentice equipment pack valued at $500, proudly sponsored by Ballarat PlumbPro.
To be eligible for this award, applicants must:
- be enrolled as a first-year student in a plumbing qualification
- have demonstrated a consistently high level of excellence throughout their studies
- have shown a strong commitment to their learning and professional development.
Download the Ballarat PlumbPro Award nomination form (PDF 185 KB)
Samios Plumbing Supplies Second Year Plumbing Award
The successful recipient will receive a $200 cash prize, proudly sponsored by Samios Plumbing Supplies.
To be eligible for this award, applicants must:
- be enrolled as a second-year student in a plumbing qualification
- have demonstrated a consistently high level of excellence throughout their studies
- have shown a strong commitment to their learning and professional development.
Download the Samios Plumbing Supplies Second Year Plumbing Award nomination form (PDF 170 KB)
Samios Plumbing Supplies Third Year Plumbing Award
The successful recipient will receive a $300 cash prize, proudly sponsored by Samios Plumbing Supplies.
To be eligible for this award, applicants must:
- be enrolled as a third-year student in a plumbing qualification
- have demonstrated a consistently high level of excellence throughout their studies
- have shown a strong commitment to their learning and professional development.
Download the Samios Plumbing Supplies Third Year Plumbing Award nomination form (PDF 170 KB)
School and youth awards
This award recognises a Federation College student who has demonstrated commitment, resilience and success throughout their studies. It celebrates young people who have re-engaged with education, demonstrated determination in completing their studies and are preparing to transition into further education, training or employment. The successful recipient will receive a $500 cash prize, proudly sponsored by Highlands LLEN.
To be eligible for this award, applicants must:
- be aged 16–19 years
- have left secondary school before completing Year 12
- be enrolled in VCE Vocational Major at SMB Campus
- have demonstrated commitment to their studies and completed their course of study
- be planning to continue into further education, training or employment in the following year.
Download the Highlands LLEN Award – Federation College nomination form (PDF 172 KB)
This award recognises outstanding students enrolled in a Vocational Education and Training Delivered to Secondary Students (VETDSS) program who have demonstrated excellence, commitment and engagement throughout their studies. Up to four students may receive this award, with each recipient receiving a $250 cash prize, proudly sponsored by Highlands LLEN.
To be eligible for this award, applicants must:
- be enrolled in a Federation TAFE VETDSS program
- have completed or partially completed their course of study
- have demonstrated outstanding commitment to their studies
- have achieved a consistently high standard of excellence
- have actively engaged and contributed positively in class.
Download the Highlands LLEN VET Cluster VETDSS Award for Excellence nomination form (PDF 172 KB)
Staff awards
This award recognises innovation and excellence by a teacher or trainer delivering nationally recognised vocational education and training at Federation TAFE. It celebrates educators who demonstrate excellence in teaching and learning, innovation, industry engagement and a commitment to outstanding learner outcomes. The successful recipient will receive $500 towards professional development or equipment, proudly sponsored by Federation TAFE, and will be considered for nomination to the Victorian Training Awards – VET Teacher/Trainer of the Year (subject to eligibility requirements).
Please note: The selection panel reserves the right not to present this award if no application sufficiently meets the selection criteria.
To be eligible for this award, applicants must:
- be a qualified teacher or trainer (as recognised under the Australian Qualifications Framework)
- be employed by, or regularly contracted to, Federation TAFE
- have delivered, or be delivering, vocational education and training in Victoria during the relevant eligibility period
- be a permanent resident of Australia.
Download the Federation TAFE VET Teacher/Trainer of the Year Award nomination form (PDF 178 KB)