Ms Robertson said new State Government reforms had eliminated concession prices for a TAFE education and dramatically increased the overall cost of an education.

In July enrolment fees for diplomas and advanced diplomas rose from $950 up to $1500 per year, and will increase to $2500 by 2012 – up by 160 per cent.

HECS-style loans will be implemented, leaving many Victorian TAFE students with debts to pay off in the future.

“As an example, a government supported Diploma of Community and Welfare Studies will rise from $877 to $2500 by 2012. And for those on concession, their fees will increase from $55 to $2500,” Ms Robertson said.

“Further, those who already have a degree or diploma will be forced to pay the full cost of further training, which could be over $10,000.

For more of this story, purchase your copy of Wednesday’s Sunraysia Daily 9/9/2009.