What is Skills Checkpoint for Older Workers?
Skills Checkpoint is a government initiative that assists Australians over 40 in retraining and upskilling so they can advance their professions or find new jobs.
This programme is run by the Department of Education, Skills, and Employment, an agency of the Australian government. It is intended for older workers who need to upgrade their skillsets to remain in the workforce.
Skills Checkpoint includes personalised support services, including:
• Career assessment
• Consultation with a career adviser
• Plan for your career and recommendations for skill development
• Training grant of up to $2,200 (covering 50-75% of course cost)
Sorry! We don't have any Government Funded & Loan Scheme Courses in New South Wales at the moment
What courses does Skills Checkpoint funding subsidise?
You can use Skills Checkpoint funding for vocational courses, like certificate IIIs and diplomas. In NSW, training is delivered through a provider called BUSY At Work.
Depending on the course, the subsidy varies:
• 50% of the cost of tuition for courses that improve career prospects
• 75% of the cost of tuition for courses related to a skill on the National Skills Commission’s list of skills priorities.
The following are some examples of professions on the Skills Priority List with shortages and expected future demand:
• Autoglazier
• Real Estate Agent
• Library Assistant
• Legal Executive
Am I eligible for the Skills Checkpoint program?
Each year, a limited number of training subsidies are available. The number of available spots doubled from January 2022, and expanded eligibility requirements were applied.
You must be the following in order to satisfy the new requirements:
• 40 years or older
• A permanent resident or citizen of Australia
• Either:
• Employed but in danger of entering the welfare system
• Recently out of work (within 12 months)
• Not taking part in an employment services program run by the Australian government
Visit the website for the Skills Checkpoint for Older Workers to verify your eligibility and submit an application.
Others Government Funding Schemes in New South Wales
Smart and Skilled
Smart and Skilled NSW is an exceptional funding program designed to assist eligible NSW students by providing subsidies for a wide range of courses. This program specifically focuses on helping you obtain your first qualification after completing school, giving you a head start in your career.
Learn MoreFAQ
What are the fees for Skills Checkpoint Victoria?
Up until the $2200 subsidy ceiling, you will only be required to pay 25–50% of the normal training cost under Skills Checkpoint.
What skills can I learn with Skills Checkpoint?
With Skills Checkpoint, you can study any skillset that can help you succeed in your career. A larger subsidy is given for skills associated with jobs on the Skills Priority List. These comprise, but are not limited to:
• Library services
• Automotive
• Human resources
• Retail operations
• Real estate
• Legal services
• Trades