First—thank you. Because of you, 1,239 RTO leaders, trainers and supporters have called for transparency and fairness in “Fee-Free TAFE” funding.
Since we launched this petition, we received a formal response from the Department of Employment and Workplace Relations (18 July). It confirms $2.7 billion is headed to the states for subsidised training—and that non-TAFE RTOs can be included where “thin markets” or specific cohorts apply. But there’s still no clear pathway for independent providers to access those places, and cuts across NSW, VIC, QLD and SA are already costing jobs, courses and student opportunities.
We’re not done.
What we’re doing now
- Minister follow-ups: We’ve written to Hon Jason Clare MP, Hon Amanda Rishworth MP and key state ministers (e.g. Steve Whan MP in NSW) demanding:
- Published allocation criteria
- A transparent access process for independent RTOs
- A review of recent cuts
- Transition support for the 2025 Standards
- Media & Parliament: Briefings are going to MPs and journalists to keep this on the agenda.
- Evidence gathering: We’re collecting real stories of redundancies, closures and waitlisted students to present as proof of impact.
How you can help (again 💪)
- Email your local MP & State/Territory Minister – Grab the template here: Download the Digital Advocacy Kit to Save Private RTOs
- Share your story – Comment below (or DM me) with your state, what was cut, and who’s affected.
- Spread the word – Share the petition link, tag your MP, and use #SavePrivateRTOs #FeeFreeFairness.
- Tune in & share – Our podcast episode “Fee-Free… For Who?” drops on Wednesday 30 July 2025. Please listen and pass it on.
We’ll update you again as soon as we receive ministerial replies or media traction. Let’s keep the pressure respectful, relentless and united.
With gratitude,
Angela Connell
CEO, Vivacity Coaching & Consulting