In collaboration with education partner organisations, Soldier On offers a wide range of courses and training opportunities that can help Australian Defence personnel and their family members get recognition for existing skills, gain new qualifications, build on current skills, and explore new vocational areas.
The Education Guide connects you with Education Partners who are there to support and assist you on your learning journey and can offer free or subsidised courses.
Our Education Partners offer vocational, tertiary, and short courses; apprenticeships and traineeships; personal and professional development; mentoring; business and IT courses; the Discover My Career assessment tool; and more.
Our Education team are also here to assist you with;
- Course research and education guidance
- Identifying pathways into employment through upskilling
- Creating individual learning plans to support your transition.
Offerings vary by state and include:
- Short courses
- CIT & Cybersecurity Courses
- Cert II
- Cert III
- Cert IV
- Diplomas
- Advanced Diplomas
- Tertiary Courses
- Traineeships and Apprenticeships
- Entrepreneurship and Business Courses
- Scholarships
- Specialist Programs
- Discover My Career Tool – Harrison Career Navigation System (CNS) – TAFE QLD
View offerings by state below.
The Discover My Career Tool – Harrison Career Navigation System (CNS) is a scientific tool that evaluates you as an individual and aligns you with the careers best suited to your goals.
This process is built upon research which is specifically related to job performance and measures 175 work related traits including task preference, motivation, work environment preference, interests, and personal preferences.
Participants using this tool receive four reports:
- Career options
- Greatest strengths
- Career development
- Career comparison
The tool costs $45 to complete.
This structured 18-week program facilitates meaningful mentorship connections for veterans and their family members with experienced professionals from Soldier On Pledge Partners and other subject matter experts to help them achieve employment, educational and personal goals.
Skills Lab Program
Skills Lab has been designed especially for teens and young adults aged 16+, recognising the unique needs of those coming from Defence families.
Skills Lab offers insights into various industries and their career opportunities. Additionally, it provides career readiness guidance such as crafting resumes and cover letters, preparing for job interviews, creating LinkedIn profiles, personal development and more.
- Discovery call with a Soldier On Education Officer.
- Access to The Discover Your Career Assessment
- Defence Student Career Readiness Handbook.
- Access to an online catalogue of workshops (to be watched in your own time when convenient for you!)
- Traineeship and Apprenticeship opportunities through the Soldier On Jobs & Opportunities Board
- Access to the Soldier On Education Guide which connects you to our education partners.
- Access to thousands of free courses available on the IBM SkillsBuild and Udemy Platforms.
- Individual personal and professional learning plans available.
- Access to IT Taster and Industry Recognised courses through Cisco, IBM and Fortinet.
- Opportunity to attend Soldier On Pathways Networking Events to meet and chat with potential Defence friendly employers.
- Work Experience Immersion program with IBM, proudly supported by Soldier On.
- Access to the Soldier On Mentoring Program for those age 18+.
Soldier On’s free webinar series provides useful information from our partners and supporters.
Defence Student Career Readiness Handbook
At Soldier On, we understand the unique challenges that Defence students face when navigating employment and career planning due to the demands of their parents’ military service. That’s why we’ve developed this handbook—to help Defence and ex-Defence students gain the essential skills and knowledge needed to become career-ready.
Whether you’re starting your career journey or looking for casual work after a recent move, this handbook offers valuable tools to help you achieve your goals.
To use the fillable PDF, download your copy from this link and save it to your computer. You can also print a hardcopy of the handbook directly from Dropbox.
The Ultimate Defence and Veteran Partner Handbook
Designed with military families in mind, this comprehensive guide covers the key aspects of military life, including employment and education. Whether you’re adapting to career changes due to relocations or seeking new opportunities for personal growth, this handbook provides practical strategies and resources to help you thrive.
Discover your Career Purpose Workbook
This workbook is designed for both current and former ADF members, as well as their families, to help discover and align with their passion, purpose, and core values using the principles of Ikigai—the Japanese concept of finding meaning and joy in life.
Whether you’re exploring new career paths, personal growth opportunities, or simply seeking clarity, this workbook provides a structured approach to uncover what truly motivates and fulfils you.
To use the fillable PDF, download your copy from this link and save it to your computer. You can also print a hardcopy of the workbook directly from Dropbox.
Further resources and courses are also available. For more information or to speak to Soldier On’s Education Team, contact education@soldieron.org.au
Opportunities by state
Proudly Australian-owned, veteran-owned, and veteran-operated, 3CIR stands as your unwavering ally in transforming military excellence into civilian qualifications. As Australia’s foremost Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) specialists for ADF and Emergency Services personnel, let our ADF veteran assessors expertly map your proven skills and experience, honed in leadership, security, and high-stakes operations—directly to nationally recognised qualifications, empowering seamless career transition.
Launch your new career today with a complimentary RPL assessment and our exclusive 25% discount across all qualifications, including Leadership and Management, Security Risk Management, WHS and Government. Unlock doors to rewarding roles, amplify your expertise, and honour your service with credentials that resonate.
Your commitment to our nation demands unparalleled support—3CIR delivers it with integrity and precision.
For immediate guidance, visit: https://www.3cir.com/services/military-rpl/ or contact us at 1300 517 039 | email: info@3cir.com
Empowering veteran success.
ACU makes higher education a reality through university pathways for the military-connected, student veteran support and research opportunities.
Learn more:
acu.edu.au/veterans
acu.edu.au/studentveteranservices
Student Veteran Services Team
(07) 3623 7847
studentveteranservices@acu.edu.au
At Aimpoint’s Learning Zone, we are proud to support our Veterans by offering free access to our online short courses until the end of December! Whether you’re transitioning to civilian life or looking to enhance your skills, we have a course for you. Our comprehensive course list includes:
• Veteran Transition Course
• Project Management Fundamentals
• Risk Management Fundamentals
• Lean Six Sigma
• Project Controls and Earned Value Management
• Schedule Management Fundamentals
• Business Development Fundamentals
• Entrepreneurship
• Cyber Security Awareness and Basics
Don’t miss out on this incredible opportunity to advance your career and gain valuable knowledge. Enrol today by contacting the education team and take the next step towards your future.
We partner with Apprenticeships Careers Australia (ACA), who offer national apprenticeships in multiple industries across Australia.
Rachael O’Brien
Rachael.obrien@apprenticeshipcareers.com.au
www.asset.edu.au/nsw-government-funding
www.asset.edu.au/mss-security-scholarship
RTO #31718 Master Licence: 000104393
Australian Paramedical College will provide entry pathways to Soldier On participants for nationally recognised training courses in pre-hospital emergency health care.
APC Admissions Team
1300 377 741
info@apcollege.edu.au
Discounted courses, programs and scholarships are available including Master Trainer Program, Personal Trainer, Fitness Coach, Remedial Massage Therapist, Massage Therapist, Nutrition Coach and Short Courses.
Learn the Technology Land Your Dream Job
We are a skills-to-job program offering technology education through public-private partnerships, high-quality curriculum, and inclusive workforce development programs.
Comprehensive, proven curriculum to build job-ready skills in:
- Networking – Networking Essentials, CCNA: Introduction to Networks, CCNA: Switching, Routing, and Wireless Essentials, CCNA: Enterprise Networking, Security, and Automation, DevNet Associate.
- Cybersecurity – Cybersecurity Essentials, Ethical Hacker.
- Programming – Python Essentials 1 and 2, JavaScript Essentials 1 and 2, C++ Essentials 1, 2 and Advanced, C Essentials 1, 2 and Advanced.
- AI & Data Science – Introduction to Data Science, Introduction to Modern AI, Data Analytics Essentials, AI Fundamentals
- Information Technology – Computer Hardware Basics, Operating System Basics, IT Essentials, Linux Unhatched, Linux Essentials, Linux 1 and 2
- Professional Skills – Engaging Stakeholders for Success, Creating Compelling Reports, Entrepreneurship, Discovering Entrepreneurship, Launching a Business Venture, Managing a Business Venture, Career Preparation Workshop
- Sustainability – Exploring Sustainability, A Framework for Sustainability in IT
- Cisco Packet Tracer – Getting Started, Exploring Networking and Exploring IT
Cybersecurity training and placement company offering a program for a selected number of individuals looking to join the fight against cyber criminals. Scholarships available.
https://cyberrevolution.com.au/
Adam Hewitt
0431 245 289
adam@cyberrevolution.com.au
Veterans, military spouses, and dependents can now access free online, self-paced cybersecurity training from Fortinet, the world’s leading cybersecurity company, through Soldier On. For details on training and certifications, please read the NSE Brochure .
To get free exam vouchers and labs, and check eligibility, register via Soldier On’s Education team at education@soldieron.org.au.
Frontline Labs is a veteran-led ACNC not-for-profit health promotion charity serving the veteran-community through education. Our programs offer a pathway for veterans, ADF members, and their spouses to develop entrepreneurial skills and realise the benefits of self-employment and business ownership. Our RTO accredited Veteran Entrepreneur Training is offered in a blended format with online training sessions and a one-day in-person Residential Day featuring guest speakers, mentors, and workshops.
Mark Leatham
0478 480 278
markleatham@frontlinelabs.org.au
SkillsBuild is a free online platform offering over 7000 free online courses. The platform aims to connect job seekers with learning and career development opportunities.
IBM SkillsBuild users are invited to further their learning with free Udemy licenses upon application. The full course list of available Udemy courses can be found here.
To register, contact the Soldier On Education team at education@soldieron.org.au
Enterprise Programme - Ready to explore, start or grow a business?
Enterprise Programme – Are you ready to explore, start or grow a business?
Are you a current, former, serving or family member of the Defence community? You can access our free programmes and tools to explore, start or grow your business. Our free programmes and tools are designed to help you:
- Launch your idea
- Learn online
- Grow your business
- Get recognised
Coming up: The Enterprise Accelerator (October 13 -1 7) is designed to support ADF community entrepreneurs to grow and scale their businesses. Find out more and register HERE.
Contacts/further info:
simone.mckenna@kingstrust.org.au
events@kingstrust.org.au
https://www.kingstrust.org.au/enterprise
The approach that was taken in developing the Entrepreneurship Program is to provide you with the practical and fundamental skills that you need to operate a business.
This course is designed to encourage you to challenge the status quo, develop critical thinking skills, round out your ideas with a bigger picture in mind and provide you with the pathway to succeed in business as well as give you real-world skills to take with you in any future venture. Click here for more details.
Sonia Dowling
(02) 4925 770
nhb@businesscentre.com.au
At River Oak College (previously OPEC College), your education is more than just online learning; it’s guided by mentoring, enriched with coaching, and designed to foster confidence, adaptability, and lifelong success.
From Certificates II through to Graduate Diplomas, as well as Badged Microcredentials, we offer a full spectrum of qualifications designed to meet you where you are and take you where you want to go. Whether you’re completing a qualification through Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) or starting a full course from scratch, we respect the knowledge, skills, and experience you bring.
Our contextualised and customised learning activities ensure your education is relevant, empowering, and focused on achieving your goals.
Partner with us to unlock your potential and take charge of your learning journey, with the perfect balance of autonomy, real-world application, and expert support and guidance.
Thoroughbred Breeders Australia (TBA) is dedicated to growing the next generation of industry professionals. As a not-for-profit organisation, TBA offers all its programs free of charge, with the aim of helping passionate individuals gain entry and thrive in Australia’s world-leading thoroughbred breeding sector.
Explore our programs below to discover hands-on training, expert-led courses, and career pathways into a dynamic industry with a global reputation for excellence.
Madison Tims
02 9663 8477 | 0405 535 436
madison@tbaus.com
AVCAT scholarships include Long Tan Bursaries and sponsored scholarships. Sponsored scholarships are for the children and grandchildren of ex-serving veterans. Long Tan Bursaries are for the children and grandchildren of Vietnam Veterans and are available in each state and territory. The Long Tan Bursary is funded by the Australian Government Department of Veterans’ Affairs.
AVCAT sponsored scholarships are funded by ex-service organisations and private donors. These scholarships are for children and grandchildren of ex-serving veterans.
All bursaries and sponsored scholarships are for tertiary education and are $4000-$6000 per year, for up to three years.
Further information is available on the AVCAT website, Scholarships | Australian Veterans’ Children Assistance Trust (avcat.org.au).
Helping Veterans Achieve Study Success with the launch of Five2Study
Transitioning from military to civilian life can be challenging. Veterans can face additional barriers when accessing higher education such as psychological stress and logistical hurdles.
Five2Study helps reduce these stressors by leveraging the strengths veterans bring from service and by provided targeted support.
Five2Study is an app designed to support veterans their families as they transition to higher education. Developed by Education Partners Australian Catholic University (ACU) and RSL Queensland under the Department of Veterans Affairs (DVA) Wellbeing Grant 2022-2023.
Five2Study Features:
Wellbeing & Employment – Guidance on balancing health and career
Veteran Assistance – Resources for navigating veteran-specific support services
Academic Writing – Tips for essays, referencing and using AI with integrity
Time Management & Taking Notes – Strategies to enhance productivity
Reading Techniques & Reflecting – Improve comprehension and self-assessment
What To Expect in Higher Education – Insights and tips from fellow veterans
For further information view https://youtu.be/3oOxNHzGwG0?si=ucPB5tc2N8ouEZGx and visit ACU Five2Study. Additional On Campus support can also be found by visiting Service to Campus (service2campus.com.au).
The American Australian Association provides much needed financial support and assistance to Australian and American honourably discharged post-9/11 military veterans to pursue study in each other’s countries respectively.
With more than 73 veteran scholars and alumni and over US $2.8 million awarded to date, the American Australian Assosciation is committed to investing in the future of veterans by supporting educational opportunities which build new skills and create prosperous post-military careers.
The Veteran’s Fund provides support of up to US $40,000 to Australian and American Veterans undertaking or planning to undertake full-time Undergraduate or Graduate level study in any disciplinary field, at an accredited educational institution in the Australia to USA direction or USA to Australian direction. Access the Veterans’ Fund brochure here.
This transformative scholarship program aims to nurture the next generation of globally aware and socially conscious leaders.
Students from Canberra and regional NSW who may face barriers to higher education will benefit from wrap-around support, a holistic leadership development program, and a diverse cohort for their academic journey.
The program will empower students to emerge as visionary leaders, changemakers and innovators, creating impact and influencing meaningful change.
Snow Foundation is a philanthropic organisation that creates opportunities for a more caring and inclusive community.
Jo Macdonald Careers empowers ADF spouses, veterans, and members to build the careers they truly want – not just what they can do. We understand the challenges of transitioning to the civilian workforce and offer a tailored, step-by-step program.
Through career coaching, resume coaching, job search strategies, LinkedIn optimisation, and interview preparation, we help clients gain clarity, confidence, and direction. Our goal is to build career confidence and ensure each person secures meaningful work aligned with their passions, strengths, and goals.
Your Career, Your Way – because you deserve a career that fits your life and aspirations.
Canberra Institute of Technology is the largest provider of vocational education and training in Australia’s capital.
https://cit.edu.au/study
https://cit.edu.au/study/cit_fee_free_tafe
industryengagement@cit.edu.au
CITApprenticeships@cit.edu.au
citschoolsengagement@cit.edu.au
Terina Welch
1300 28 28 13 | 0427 660 360
trene@signaturelearning.net
Ranks to Recognition
A variety of vocational scholarships are available throughout the year for NSW residents only at Western Sydney University – The College.
westernsydney.edu.au/thecollege
Contact the Soldier On Education team for further information education@soldieron.org.au
Infinite Education and Training Pty Ltd is a values-driven education provider and consultancy, committed to delivering tailored training solutions that prioritise learner success.
The company upholds a strong dedication to innovation, excellence, and industry alignment, ensuring that each program is practical, relevant, and impactful. By focusing on a learner-cantered approach, Infinite Education and Training fosters an environment where individuals are empowered to achieve their personal and professional goals.
Our unwavering commitment to quality and integrity underscores our mission to create meaningful, learning experiences that contribute to lifelong growth and success.
For further details on opportunities please contact Vanessa Solomon at vanessa@infiniteeducation.com.au or 0405 715 709.
NDIS – As an Adult Language, Literacy and Numeracy Provider, Vanessa can play a crucial role in providing valuable educational services under the NDIS framework, by offering tailored, functional and collaborative support that is aimed to enhance the independence and participation of adults with learning challenges.
Specifically, Vanessa uses personalised education services designed to improve the participant’s capacity to learn independently, helping them develop strategies for ongoing learning and problem-solving in daily life.
Through this support, NDIS participants are provided the opportunity to build long-term skills and capabilities, to further enhance their social inclusion, employment opportunities and overall quality of life.
- over 70 fee-exempt TAFE courses for NT-based veterans;
- over 50 University courses (most available both on-campus and fully online) accepting entry based on 1+ years of ADF service at the rank of Private (or equivalent) or higher; and
- veterans on staff in teaching and administrative areas, providing specialised support before, during, and after study.
We offer a complete support service and can work alongside your ADF transitions Coach to provide specialised guidance.
For more information, please visit Transitioning from the ADF (tafesa.edu.au) and book an appointment.
or book an appointment.
The Gordon is Victoria’s largest regional stand-alone TAFE and has been helping people gain real skills for real jobs for over 130 years.
Jack O’Donoghue
+61 3 5225 0725 | 0466 481 107
commercial@gordontafe.edu.au
thegordon.edu.au
TAFE3044
Skills and Jobs, at Wodonga TAFE
defence.careers@smtafe.wa.edu.au
Current specials
The Eighth Mile Consulting Scholarship – Personal Development Courses
Eighth Mile Consulting are offering 3 fee free scholarships every quarter to access an online course of your choice from the following:
Combating Imposter Syndrome
Reinvent Yourself
Ceasing Micromanagement
Further information on these courses and eligibility can be viewed here.
To submit your application please complete this form.
Western Sydney University
Western Sydney University The College has partnered with Bradfield Development Authority and Western Sydney International (Nancy Bird Walton) Airport to launch the Introduction to Aviation Operations Micro credential that prepares students for the workforce opportunities ahead of the airport’s opening in late 2026. This isn’t just another course—it’s part of a strategic workforce development initiative for what will become Sydney’s second major airport.
Why this appeals:
- Industry- backed – Participants earn industry-recognised credentials valued by major airlines and aerospace companies
- Government-backed initiative – Partnership with Bradfield Development Authority and Western Sydney International Airport
- Real industry connections – Direct pathway to opportunities at Western Sydney’s new international airport Soldier On participants receive a discounted rate.
Please contact the education team for further details.
Compass Group
Barista Course
A free 6-hour theory & practical course in coffee making plus information session on an overview of Compass Group opportunities presented by their Veteran Pillar Chairperson.
Course Date – Thursday 2nd October
For Defence Kids only – Grades 11 and 12
Location
Brisbane Academy, Cannon Hill
Register your interest by emailing your details to StaceyKennedy@compass-group.com.au