TAFE is Australia’s trusted public provider of vocational education. It delivers quality education, transforms lives and strengthens communities. This report presents the findings of the 2025 State of our TAFE Survey. The report sets out an agenda for governments to secure TAFE’s future and fully realise the objectives of the National Skills Agreement by matching its investment in TAFE students with equally ambitious investments in the TAFE workforce and TAFE campuses.

Key findings

• Almost two-thirds of TAFE staff surveyed have considered leaving their jobs in the past year, and nearly half do not expect to be working in TAFE in five years’ time.
• Excessive workloads, insecure employment and uncompetitive pay are driving skilled teachers out of the sector.
• More than half of TAFE staff reported reduced student contact hours despite rising administrative and compliance demands.
• Staff reported significant increases in students presenting with mental health, literacy, numeracy and digital skills needs, without additional learning or support services to meet that demand.

Recommendations

• Rebuild the TAFE teaching workforce.
• Fund ongoing support for students with additional needs.
• Deliver a significant capital works and equipment program.