Celebrating the life-changing power of skills
National Skills Week 2026 celebrates the life-changing power of vocational education and training (VET) and the people whose skills are helping to shape Australia's future.
This year's theme, Life Changing Skills, recognises the many ways skills and training transform lives. From helping school leavers take their first career step, to supporting people to retrain, upskill or change careers, VET opens doors to new opportunities while providing industry with the skilled workforce it needs.
Vocational education and training equips people with practical skills, industry experience and nationally recognised qualifications that lead to rewarding careers. Whether through an apprenticeship, traineeship, qualification or short course, VET empowers individuals to build their future while supporting stronger businesses, industries and communities.
The Queensland Government is committed to ensuring Queenslanders have access to high-quality training that meets the needs of a growing economy. Through investment in skills and training, we are:
- helping individuals realise their potential
- supporting employers to address workforce challenges
- delivering a stronger, more productive Queensland.
National Skills Week is an opportunity to celebrate the achievements of students, apprentices, trainees, trainers, employers and training providers, while encouraging more Queenslanders to discover the many pathways available through vocational education and training.
Get involved
Whether you're a student, parent, teacher, employer or career changer, there are plenty of ways to get involved in National Skills Week 2026.
Explore the resources below to discover how skills can change lives:
- Download the National Skills Week Queensland Schools Kit for classroom activities, lesson ideas and promotional resources.
- Read inspiring success stories from Queenslanders whose lives and careers have been transformed through skills and training.
- Explore free and subsidised training.
- Visit the Queensland Skills Gateway to find a course that suits you.
Recognising Queensland’s training achievers
National Skills Week also showcases the achievements of our Queensland Training Awards regional finalists and winners – outstanding individuals, trainers and organisations who prove the power of skills and training.
Meet our 2026 QTA regional winners and finalists.
National Skills Week is more than a campaign. It’s a shared commitment to our future. Together, we can celebrate the life-changing power of skills and inspire the next generation of Queensland's skilled workforce.
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Last updated 31 July 2026
