New data released today by the National Centre for Vocational Education Research (NCVER) shows that 48.9% of vocational education and training (VET) qualifications commenced in 2021 were completed within four years, down from 49.5% for qualifications commenced in 2020. Projected completion rates for qualifications commenced in 2022 and 2023 are higher.
The results reinforce that completion outcomes vary substantially across qualifications, learner groups and jurisdictions, highlighting the diversity of pathways and experiences within Australia's VET sector.
Many priority cohorts recorded improved or stable completion rates, although significant gaps remain for students with a disability, Indigenous students and students living in disadvantaged areas.
Completion rates increased year on year for students in South Australia and Western Australia. Declines were recorded in Victoria and, to a lesser extent, New South Wales, Queensland and Tasmania.
NCVER Managing Director John King said completion rates remained an important indicator of outcomes in the VET system.
‘The 2021 commencing cohort entered training during a period of considerable disruption, with students and providers experiencing very different public health, training and labour market conditions across Australia’, said Mr King.
‘Students undertake VET for different reasons and in different circumstances. Completion rates are an important measure and, alongside other evidence, help us understand the value students gain from training and where further improvement may be needed’, he said.
Background:
VET qualification completion rates 2025 presents completion rates for nationally recognised VET qualifications at Certificate I level and above delivered by Australian registered training organisations.
The publication reports observed completion rates for qualifications commencing between 2016 and 2021 and projected completion rates for qualifications commencing in 2022 and 2023.
Completions are influenced by a range of factors including learner circumstances, labour market conditions and training contexts.
Fee-Free TAFE activity falls within the scope of reporting but is not separately identified in the underlying data and cannot be reported on separately in this publication.
Download the report: VET qualification completion rates 2025
Enquiries: Elise Stone P: +61 8 8230 8443 E: communications@ncver.edu.au
About NCVER: we are the main provider of research, statistics and data on Australia’s VET sector. Our services help promote better understanding of VET and assist policy makers, practitioners, industry, training providers, and students to make informed decisions.
This work has been produced by NCVER on behalf of the Australian Government and state and territory governments, with funding provided through the Australian Government Department of Employment and Workplace Relations.