Queensland to Add 2,000 Fee-Free Nursing Diploma Places in 2026

The Queensland Government has announced it will introduce 2,000 additional fee-free Diploma of Nursing training places from 2026, aiming to boost the state's health workforce and meet growing demand in the care sector.

The Health Care and Social Assistance industry is forecast to become Queensland's fastest-growing sector by 2028-29. The expanded training program will allow more students to complete a Diploma of Nursing and become eligible for registration as Enrolled Nurses, supporting hospitals and health services across the state.

The new places will be offered through TAFE Queensland, CQUniversity and Mater Education, ensuring access to training for communities from Cairns to Coolangatta and from Mount Isa to Mackay.

Finance, Trade, Employment and Training Minister Ros Bates said the initiative will help ensure Queensland is prepared for future workforce needs.

"As a former nurse, I know how vital frontline health staff are to delivering the care Queenslanders deserve," she said. "By 2028-29, one in six new jobs in Queensland is expected to be in health care or social assistance, so expanding fee-free nursing places is essential to building a strong workforce."

Health and Ambulance Services Minister Tim Nicholls said the additional training opportunities will help address workforce shortages, particularly in rural and remote communities.

"Providing 2,000 extra Diploma of Nursing places will create a direct pipeline of job-ready, locally trained nurses who can step into frontline roles as soon as they graduate," he said. "This forms a key part of our plan to rebuild the workforce, relieve pressure on hospitals and improve access to health services."

Coomera MP Michael Crandon said the initiative represents an investment in jobs and in Queensland’s long-term health capability.

"The Gold Coast is home to one of the state's major Diploma of Nursing sites and will play a crucial role in training future health workers," he said. "Removing financial barriers helps ensure Queensland has the nurses it needs."

The additional fee-free Diploma of Nursing places will be available from 2026 through TAFE Queensland, CQUniversity and Mater Education.