The Australian Government is partnering with states and territories to deliver the Advanced Entry Trades Training (AETT) program to fast-track free qualifications for 6,000 experienced workers in residential housing and civil construction.
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What is the AETT program?
The Australian Government is investing $78 million over three years to support 6,000 experienced workers across Australia gain nationally recognised qualifications to strengthen the workforce that builds the homes and infrastructure Australia needs.
The AETT program provides a faster pathway to a qualification using recognition of prior learning (RPL) to assess skills, knowledge and experience gained on the job, with gap training focused on the additional skills and knowledge needed.
States and territories will partner with TAFEs and other high-quality RTOs with strong experience in RPL to deliver training and assessment at no cost to participants.
The AETT program will offer qualifications at a Certificate level III or higher with a clear connection to residential housing and civil construction, excluding those typically part of a mandatory apprenticeship pathway or linked to occupational licensing.
Who is eligible?
The AETT program is designed for experienced workers in residential housing and civil construction who have developed substantial skills through employment.
Eligible participants must be Australian citizens or permanent residents with at least three years of relevant industry experience, including at least 12 months on Australian worksites. Eligible participants must be currently working residential housing and civil construction or have worked in that industry in the preceding two years.
Current or recent apprentices and trainees, and those in school, will not be eligible.
How is it being delivered?
The Australian Government has worked with states and territories to finalise national program settings. Funding arrangements are established through a Federation Funding Agreement.
States and territories are delivering the AETT program locally and are responsible for endorsing participating RTOs, enrolment pathways and available qualifications.
The AETT program was launched on 5 September 2026 in New South Wales. Program launch in other states and territories will occur following formal agreement.