Funding available for battery tech training

The Australian and Queensland Governments are providing $2.4 million in Applied Research Grants to build Queensland’s future workforce in two critical areas: battery technology and disability support.

The Grants are intended to drive innovation in vocational education and training, providing Queenslanders with the skills they will need for secure jobs in emerging and essential industries. Round 2 of the Grants has just been announced, with $1m in funding available for clean energy battery projects that demonstrate innovative training and address workforce needs.

The grants will be delivered through the TAFE Centre of Excellence Clean Energy Batteries and the TAFE Centre of Excellence Health Care and Support, both part of TAFE Queensland. Joint initiatives of the Australian and Queensland Governments, these Centres will support projects that respond directly to industry-identified challenges and workforce needs.

Designed as specialised training hubs, the Centres offer high-quality skills development — not only for those physically onsite at the centres, but also students and teachers across the country, who benefit from access to cutting-edge teaching resources as well as expertise from partners such as universities and industry.

Federal Minister for Skills and Training Andrew Giles said the Applied Research Grants will support the TAFE Centres of Excellence to develop high-quality and responsive training in clean energy and disability support.

“Our government is focused on backing Queenslanders to access affordable, specialised training for secure careers in critical industries,” Giles said.

“Building a renewable energy workforce is vital for a reliable and sustainable future, and these grants will open up new opportunities for Queenslanders to skill and upskill.”

TAFE Queensland Interim Chief Executive Officer Brent Kinnane added: “As Queensland’s largest training provider, TAFE Queensland trains over 135,000 students a year, and our commitment to collaborative applied research will drive innovation in VET and solve industry challenges.

“With $2.4 million available in funding, I encourage people to submit an Applied Research Grant application before submissions close on 16 March 2026.”

Program Details

• Grants will be available through the second round of the Applied Research Grants program.
• Applications must be delivered in partnership with TAFE Queensland or another TAFE institution.
• TAFE-led applications must also include a research partnership with a university, industry group, community organisation or Aboriginal Community Controlled Organisation.
   

For more information and to apply, visit: https://tafeqld.edu.au/about/centres-of-excellence/applied-research-grants.

Image courtesy of TAFE Queensland.