Western Sydney University and TAFE NSW partner to strengthen student outcomes in high-demand qualifications
Western Sydney University and TAFE NSW have launched a first-of-its-kind partnership in NSW to remove barriers for TAFE NSW students entering high-demand university degrees, providing a wrap-around support model that saves them time and thousands of dollars.
Through a single enrolment package, students who undertake an identified Fee Free TAFE qualification at TAFE NSW across a range of critical skill areas including nursing, construction, IT, health, and early childhood education and care will be guaranteed entry into a related Bachelor degree at Western Sydney University, starting at the Bankstown City campus in 2026.
Through this initiative, eligible students will receive credit recognition from their Fee Free TAFE qualification towards their Western Sydney University Bachelor degree, reducing their higher education study time by up to one-third. Students will be able to enter the workforce faster, unlock new career opportunities, and save thousands of dollars in costs, as a result of the NSW and Commonwealth Government supported contributions towards these qualifications.
In addition to the single enrolment experience, both partners have committed to additional resourcing in the form of Success Coaches, who will support students throughout their studies, thereby ensuring a smooth transition from vocational education and training (VET) to higher education.
There are plans to expand the initiative across Sydney in 2027.
Western Sydney University Vice-Chancellor and President, Distinguished Professor George Williams AO, welcomed the initiative.
"This pathway program is a great example of how TAFE NSW and the University can work together to create real opportunities for students. It builds on our existing partnership, including our co-location in Bankstown CBD, and provides a clear, seamless pathway from vocational training into university, including for students in Western Sydney,” said Professor Williams.
"By bringing together shared spaces and support services at Bankstown, we’re making the transition from VET to higher education smoother and more successful and we’re delivering the skilled workforce our region needs, by addressing critical skills shortages. The precinct-based model allows us to focus on industry-specific needs, creating a springboard platform for us to tackle diversity challenges as it expands to Greater Sydney.”
TAFE NSW Managing Director, Chloe Read, said the partnership will go a long way to shifting the perception that students need to choose between vocational skills training and university.
“This partnership between TAFE NSW and Western Sydney University proves it doesn’t necessarily have to be one or the other when it comes to further education – there are more pathways where students can enjoy the best of both worlds.
“We’re reshaping the way people see and experience tertiary education, which will ultimately deliver better outcomes for both students and industry.”
Federal Minister for Education, the Hon. Jason Clare MP said the partnership will save students time and money, helping them fast-track their qualifications.
“This will save you time and it will save you money. It can knock a year off a degree and save up to $18,000. I want to see more universities doing this.”
“This is about making it easier to get the qualifications you want and need, quicker and cheaper.
“We need to break down the artificial barrier between vocational education and higher education.”
Minister for Skills and Training, Andrew Giles, congratulated TAFE NSW and Western Sydney University on the announcement.
“This new partnership will be a game-changer for TAFE students across New South Wales, ensuring that they can benefit from the very best of both TAFE and university education as they prepare for their futures. Making pathways into sectors like nursing, building and construction, and community services more streamlined will help to encourage more Australians to play their part in these critically important careers.”
The NSW Minister for Skills, TAFE and Tertiary Education, Steve Whan, said the partnership represents the future of a more responsive tertiary sector that people, businesses, and communities need.
“Giving people more flexible pathways to education and earning qualifications for employment is a priority for every level of government. Being able to access education and training, and the support to reach your learning goals, can be life-changing – for individuals, their families, and their communities.
“Closer connections across VET and higher education is also an important part of the solution to skills shortages we’re seeing in critical skills areas across the country, and this partnership between TAFE NSW and Western Sydney University is an exciting step in the right direction.”
Professor Barney Glover AO, Commissioner of Jobs and Skills Australia, said this exciting partnership between Western Sydney University and TAFE NSW typifies the significant benefits to students from seamless credit management and recognition.
“A timely at scale example of tertiary harmonisation. We need to see this approach replicated across Australia in priority areas to address national skill shortages and ensure young Australians are able to participate quickly and cost effectively in great career pathways. Congratulations to the two partners and Jobs and Skills Australia looks forward to further expansion and progress in the future.”
A new single enrolment package will be introduced for eligible students, particularly those at the co-located TAFE NSW and Western Sydney University Bankstown City campus. Students enrolling in an identified Fee Free TAFE course can automatically be enrolled in a complementary Western Sydney University Bachelor degree.
While completing their TAFE NSW course, students will participate in learning activities within the Western Sydney University facilities, helping them become familiar with the university environment early on. Likewise, when they progress into their Bachelor program, they will continue to have access to TAFE NSW staff, facilities, and resources.
Commencing from February 2026, TAFE NSW and the University will co-design, implement, and scale the initiative, prioritising critical skills areas such as Nursing, Health, Early Childhood Education and Care, IT, and Construction. The program will also prioritise key equity cohorts, with additional targeted initiatives to support more women into construction skill areas.
ENDS
17 December 2025
Photo credit: Sally Tsoutas
Industry support and testimonials
Several local and national business leaders have welcomed the partnership between Western Sydney University and TAFE NSW, highlighting its benefits for workforce development and skills shortages:
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