Wednesday, 4 February 2026

 Danny PEARSON (Essendon – Minister for Economic Growth and Jobs, Minister for Finance, Minister for Government Services) (09:33): I move:

That I introduce a bill for an act to amend the Education and Training Reform Act 2006 in relation to the TAFE network, to guarantee the provision of certain courses of vocational education and training free of tuition fee, to provide for the TAFE funding guarantee and for other purposes.

Motion agreed to.

 Bridget VALLENCE (Evelyn) (09:34): I request a brief explanation of the bill from the minister.

 Danny PEARSON (Essendon – Minister for Economic Growth and Jobs, Minister for Finance, Minister for Government Services) (09:34): The Education and Training Reform Amendment (Free TAFE Guarantee) Bill 2026 enshrines access to free TAFE in legislation, elevating the importance of free TAFE as a pillar of Victoria’s education and training system. The bill also legislates a TAFE funding guarantee, ensuring that TAFE providers receive a minimum of 70 per cent of training and skills funding, acquitting our election commitment.

Read first time.

Ordered to be read second time tomorrow.