Stories & Voices

Meet the people who make TAFE extraordinary and see why investing in their future means investing in ours.

Fashion design student measuring garment on mannequin in TAFE classroom

Behind every statistic is a person.

Behind every statistic is a person with a story worth hearing. A teacher who chose TAFE to share their industry expertise. A student who found their calling. A support worker who keeps the campus running.

These voices come from every state and territory, from metro campuses and regional centres, from trades workshops and digital classrooms. They show what TAFE makes possible, and what it could achieve with the right investment.

Taylor
Hampton

TAFE graduate, Victoria

Taylor studied at Kangan Institute and was named Koorie Student of the Year at the 2024 Victorian Training Awards. He now works at VACCA and co-wrote the children’s books Our Mob and Our Dance.

On studying at TAFE

“My time at TAFE was an experience I’ll always cherish. I received a lot of support, both professionally and culturally, which made a huge difference. It gave me the confidence to grow.”

On the opportunities TAFE offers:

“TAFE is a great place for First Nations students because it offers education that’s not only practical but also culturally aware.”

On why we need to invest in TAFE:

“More investment would help make TAFE even better for students. We need more mentors and tutors who can really understand and support First Nations students.”

On his career post-TAFE:

“I’m delivering training at VACCA that helps support Aboriginal children and families. It’s all about creating a space where our culture is celebrated and respected.”

Taylor Hampton standing in front of an Australian Training Awards backdrop wearing an Indigenous-print polo shirt
Djuker Willis-Hart standing outdoors on a bushland path, smiling in a light blue shirt and jacket

Djuker
Willis-Hart

TasTAFE graduate, Tasmania

Djuker completed his Certificate III in Guiding at TasTAFE and now works in Indigenous tourism. He mentors students and advises TasTAFE on cultural content for the course he completed.

On studying at TAFE

“The teachers and different staff working with me were very accommodating… there was always support for people if they needed it. All round a good environment there at TAFE.”

On the possibilities TAFE offers:

“TAFE creates opportunities… and opens up doors that they didn’t know they had before. And that goes for all of Australia, not just Indigenous mob.”

On why we need to invest in TAFE:

“Having more resources available, having more availability for teachers and staff, I think would make a big difference in the things that can be delivered.”

On giving back to other TAFE students:

“I was able to come in and share some knowledge with the students, be a part of it all and give back a bit for what I got out of the course.”

More Stories

Mark, TAFE construction and trades teacher, standing with arms folded in an office

“As a Trade based Teacher the highlight of the day is going into the workshop and seeing the apprentices plan and organise various construction tasks and assessments. The apprentices really love the practical side of learning and assessment ... and it’s very satisfying seeing them complete their practical works. I feel a sense of satisfaction knowing that it not only leads them to achieving their goals, but also enables them to find a secure place in the workforce.”

Mark, ACT

TAFE teacher, Construction and Trades

Mei, SuniTAFE student, holding her graduation folder

“I feel incredibly valued as a TAFE student because of the comprehensive growth it offers. TAFE has provided me with a solid foundation of knowledge and practical hands-on experience that directly supports my career goals, allowing me to contribute to society while earning to support myself. As TAFE continues to grow, ensuring there are enough teachers to meet the demand is crucial for maintaining educational quality. This would significantly enhance our learning experience and help us achieve our full potential.”

Mei, Victoria

TAFE student, SuniTAFE

Rebecca, TAFE teacher from Tasmania, crouching in a garden with two dogs

“TAFE serves as a crucial stepping stone to further education and university, particularly for those living in regional communities. It is known, local, familiar, and accessible—qualities that make it indispensable in regions where access to education can be a challenge.”

Rebecca, Tasmania

TAFE teacher, Tasmania

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Your experience matters.

Whether you’re a teacher, student, employer or community member, your story helps build the case for the investment TAFE deserves.

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