Career Start at SDS Training

We are committed to:

Supporting regional Queenslanders into long-term employment
Delivering flexible training that works for both students and employers
Building stronger communities through skills development

What is Career Start?

Career Start is a Queensland Government initiative designed to support eligible job seekers by providing reduced-cost training opportunities. Through SDS Training, you can access:

Certificate III qualifications in high-demand industries
Apprenticeships and traineeships aligned with industry skill needs
Entry-level qualifications to help you step into the workforce
Foundation skills training (language, literacy, numeracy, digital skills, employability skills)
Expanded regional access to training in communities across Queensland
Supported pathways for women and priority cohorts

Pathways Available

1. General Pathway

If you’re aged 15 or older, no longer at school, and don’t already hold a Certificate III or higher (completed in the last 10 years), you may be eligible for funded training in priority industries.

This pathway provides a Certificate III qualification, equipping you with the practical skills and knowledge to enter the workforce with confidence.

2. Apprenticeship or Traineeship Pathway

If hands-on learning is the right fit for you, the apprenticeship and traineeship pathway allows you to:

Earn while you learn under a registered training contract
Gain practical, on-the-job experience
Build skills directly aligned to industry needs
Access training in Certificate II or III qualifications

Who is eligible?

You may be eligible for Career Start if you:

Are 15 years or older and no longer at school
Permanently live in Queensland
Are an Australian or New Zealand citizen, permanent resident, or hold an eligible visa
Do not already hold a Certificate III or higher completed in the last 10 years (exceptions apply)

Additional entry requirements may apply depending on the qualification or industry.

How Much Will it Cost?

The Queensland Government subsidises a significant portion of your training. You’ll pay a co-contribution fee directly to SDS Training, which varies depending on the qualification.

We’ll provide you with a clear breakdown of fees before you enrol so you know exactly what to expect.

Take the Next Step

Ready to start your career journey? SDS Training is here to guide you.

Contact our team today to check your eligibility and explore available Career Start qualifications.

Together, we’ll help you gain the skills you need to build a strong and rewarding career.

TALK TO OUR TEAM

Why Choose SDS Training?

At SDS Training, we bring more than a decade of experience in delivering industry-relevant, employment-focused training. Our hub-and-spoke model ensures that students in regional and remote communities can access the same high-quality training as those in metropolitan areas.

We are committed to:

Supporting regional Queenslanders into long-term employment

Delivering flexible training that works for both students and employers

Building stronger communities through skills development

Career Start at SDS Training

What is Career Start?

Pathways Available

Who is eligible?

Why Choose SDS Training?

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Rockhampton

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