| Course Level: | Bachelor's | |
|---|---|---|
| Course Program: | Art & Humanities | |
| Course Duration: | 4 Years | |
| Course Language: | English | |
| Required Degree | Class 12th | |
| Course Level: | Bachelor's | |
|---|---|---|
| Course Duration: | 4 Years | |
| Course Language: | English | |
| Required Degree | Class 12th | |
Location: South Bank precinct, Brisbane — a cultural and educational hub.
Focus: SBIT specialized in practical, career-oriented training. It offered diplomas, certificates, and advanced diplomas in areas such as:
Health
Business
Creative industries
Engineering
Hospitality
IT and more.
Reputation: Known for strong industry connections, hands-on training, and modern facilities, including simulation labs and advanced learning technologies.
Student Diversity: Attracted both domestic and international students.
In 2013, Southbank Institute of Technology merged with other regional TAFE providers as part of the Queensland Government’s TAFE reform. It is now part of:
TAFE Queensland Brisbane, which itself is now simply branded as TAFE Queensland.
Courses that were offered at SBIT are now available under TAFE Queensland's umbrella, often still at the South Bank campus, which remains a major TAFE location.
Diploma of Nursing (Enrolled Nurse qualification)
Certificate III & IV in Aged Care, Disability, and Individual Support
Allied Health Assistance
Dental Assisting
Childcare and Early Childhood Education
Diploma of Business
Certificate IV in Business Administration
Human Resources
Leadership and Management
Marketing & Communication
Graphic Design
Screen and Media (TV, film, animation)
Music Performance and Music Business
Fashion Design and Technology
Photography
Certificate IV and Diploma in:
Networking
Cyber Security
Software Development
Web Development
IT Support
Electrical Engineering
Mechanical Engineering
Civil Engineering Drafting
Electronics and Telecommunications
Commercial Cookery
Patisserie
Hospitality Management
Tourism and Travel
Event Management
Laboratory Techniques
Environmental Monitoring
Biotechnology
Animal Studies
English for Academic Purposes (EAP)
General English
IELTS Preparation Courses
Course Program Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees/Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
Bachelor of Nursing (via pathway to university) |
3 years |
~$22,000 |
|
Bachelor of Applied Fashion |
3 years |
~$19,500 |
|
Bachelor of Contemporary Music Practice |
3 years |
~$20,000 |
|
Bachelor of Creative Industries |
3 years |
~$20,000 |
|
Bachelor of Games and Interactive Design |
3 years |
~$21,000 |
|
Bachelor of Engineering Technology (Electrical/Civil) |
3 years |
~$23,000 |
|
Bachelor of Early Childhood Education (via partnership) |
3-4 years |
~$21,000 |
|
Bachelor of Business (via pathway to Griffith or QUT) |
3 years |
~$20,000 |
Southbank Institute of Technology was once one of Queensland’s leading vocational education providers, located in the heart of Brisbane’s South Bank precinct. Since 2013, it has been integrated into TAFE Queensland, which continues to offer a wide range of career-focused programs.
For international students, the South Bank campus is a vibrant, modern facility with great public transport access, near cultural landmarks, restaurants, and the Brisbane River.
While Southbank doesn't offer Master's or PhD programs, international students can enroll in:
Certificate III & IV courses (entry-level qualifications)
Diploma & Advanced Diploma programs (higher-level VET qualifications)
Bachelor degrees (offered directly or through partnerships with universities)
English Language Intensive Courses for Overseas Students (ELICOS)
Popular study areas include:
Nursing & Health
Business & Leadership
Information Technology
Hospitality & Cookery
Creative Industries (e.g., fashion, music, graphic design)
Engineering Technology
Early Childhood Education
Hands-on, job-ready training that leads to employment or further university study
Smaller class sizes and supportive learning environment
Modern facilities and industry-standard equipment
Pathways to university (e.g., Griffith University, QUT, UQ)
Affordable tuition compared to traditional universities
CRICOS-registered programs eligible for international student visas
Brisbane is a student-friendly city known for its:
Warm climate
Outdoor lifestyle
Multicultural environment
Safe and affordable living options
The South Bank area in particular is a lively urban neighborhood close to parks, museums, restaurants, and public transport.
Certificate/Diploma programs: ~$10,000–$16,000 USD per year
Bachelor degrees: ~$19,000–$23,000 USD per year
English programs (ELICOS): ~$300–$400 USD per week
Living expenses in Brisbane: ~$12,000–$18,000 USD per year
Academic qualifications (e.g., high school completion for diplomas or bachelor-level entry)
English proficiency (usually IELTS 5.5–6.5 depending on the course)
Valid student visa (subclass 500)
One of the key benefits of studying at TAFE South Bank is that you can:
Start with a diploma
Get credit toward a university degree (Bachelor’s)
Continue on to postgraduate study if desired
Many international students choose this route because it's more affordable and flexible.
Visit the TAFE Queensland International website and browse the available programs at the South Bank campus. Popular options include:
Diplomas (e.g., Business, Nursing, IT, Hospitality)
Bachelor Degrees (e.g., Applied Fashion, Creative Industries)
English Language Programs (ELICOS)
Make sure your selected course is CRICOS-registered (required for international students).
Each course has specific academic and English language requirements.
Certificate/Diploma: Completion of Year 12 (or equivalent to Australian high school)
Bachelor degree: Completion of Year 12 with a higher academic score
Post-diploma pathways: Some programs may require relevant industry experience
IELTS (Academic) score of 5.5–6.5, depending on the course
Or equivalent scores in TOEFL, PTE Academic, or Cambridge English
If you don't meet the English requirement, you can apply for an English for Academic Purposes (EAP) course first.
You’ll need to submit:
Academic transcripts (translated into English)
Proof of English proficiency (IELTS/PTE etc.)
Copy of passport
Resume (for some programs)
Portfolio (for design, music, or creative arts courses)
GTE (Genuine Temporary Entrant) Statement
You can apply:
Online through the TAFE Queensland International Application Portal
Through a registered education agent in your country (optional but often helpful)
If you meet the entry requirements, you'll receive a Letter of Offer. It includes:
Course details
Fees
Conditions (if any)
Payment instructions
You must accept the offer by signing the acceptance form and paying a deposit (usually part of your first semester’s tuition fee).
Once you’ve accepted your offer and paid the deposit, you’ll receive a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE). This is essential to apply for a student visa (subclass 500).
Use the CoE to apply for an Australian Student Visa. You’ll need:
Passport
CoE
GTE statement
Proof of financial capacity
OSHC (Overseas Student Health Cover)
Other required documents
You can apply online through the Australian Government's Department of Home Affairs.
Once your visa is approved:
Book flights
Arrange airport pickup if needed
Find accommodation (on-campus, homestay, or off-campus options)
Attend the international student orientation upon arrival. You’ll get help with:
Student ID, timetables
Accessing student services
Learning platforms & resources
Getting to know the campus and Brisbane
TAFE Queensland (South Bank) offers multiple intakes throughout the year for most courses.
February (Main intake – most popular)
July (Mid-year intake)
October (Smaller intake, fewer course options)
Some English Language (ELICOS) and short courses may have monthly or rolling intakes.
Tip: Apply 3–6 months in advance of your desired intake to allow time for visa processing.
Completion of Year 12 (Australian equivalent) or equivalent secondary school qualification from your home country.
Some technical courses may require prior knowledge in math, science, or a related field.
Completion of Year 12 with high academic results.
Alternatively, successful completion of a TAFE Diploma/Advanced Diploma may also allow entry into a related bachelor program.
No academic qualifications needed (except for visa).
Entry is based on your current English proficiency level.
Scholarship Name |
Eligibility |
Value |
Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
|
TAFE Queensland International Scholarship |
High-achieving international students applying for diploma or advanced diploma programs |
Up to AUD $2,000 (~USD $1,300) as tuition fee reduction |
Merit-based; awarded at time of application; limited spots |
|
Australia Awards Scholarships |
Citizens of eligible developing countries |
Full tuition, living allowance, travel & health cover |
Funded by the Australian Government; highly competitive |
|
Destination Australia Scholarship |
International students studying in regional campuses |
AUD $15,000/year (~USD $10,000) |
TAFE South Bank is not eligible, but other TAFE campuses may be |
|
Sponsored Student Programs |
Government or private sponsorship from your home country |
depending on sponsor |
Examples: Saudi Cultural Mission, PNG government, etc. |
|
Pathway Scholarships (to University) |
TAFE students progressing to a partner university |
(discounts, fee reductions) |
Offered by universities like Griffith, QUT, or UQ for TAFE graduates |
Facility Type |
Details |
Estimated Cost (USD/Week) |
|---|---|---|
|
Campus Location |
South Bank, Brisbane – cultural & education precinct near city center |
N/A |
|
Campus Facilities |
Modern classrooms, simulation labs, IT labs, cafes, library, student lounge |
Included in tuition |
|
Wi-Fi & IT Support |
Free Wi-Fi, tech support for students |
Included |
|
Public Transport Access |
Located near bus, train & ferry stations (Go Card available) |
~$20–30/week for transport |
|
Homestay (with local families) |
Fully furnished room, 2–3 meals/day, bills included |
USD $220–$300/week |
|
Student Apartments (shared) |
Shared kitchen & bathroom, furnished, near campus (e.g., Student One, Uniresort) |
USD $180–$250/week |
|
Private Rentals (shared house) |
Share a house/apartment with other students, self-catered |
USD $150–$220/week |
|
On-campus Accommodation |
No official on-campus housing, but partner providers nearby |
N/A (use private student housing) |
|
Temporary Accommodation |
Hostels or short-term hotels upon arrival |
USD $30–$60/night |
Studying at the South Bank campus means you're right in the heart of Brisbane’s education and cultural precinct. The campus itself is modern, spacious, and packed with industry-standard training facilities—like health simulation labs, fashion studios, commercial kitchens, digital media labs, and more.
The atmosphere on campus is relaxed but focused. Since TAFE programs are practical and career-oriented, students tend to be highly motivated and come from a wide range of backgrounds. You'll find a diverse mix of people—from school leavers to adult learners to international students from across Asia, Europe, and beyond.
As an international student, you're well looked after. TAFE Queensland provides:
Dedicated international student advisors
Orientation sessions to help you settle in
Workshops on things like finding work, visa conditions, and academic success
Mental health and well-being support
There are also language support services and free Wi-Fi across campus, so staying connected is easy.
Student life isn’t just about study! South Bank is one of Brisbane’s most vibrant areas—right next to the Brisbane River, surrounded by art galleries, street food, markets, music venues, and green parks.
You can take part in:
Student clubs and activities
Cultural celebrations
Volunteering opportunities
Short excursions and events organized by TAFE or student housing providers
Plus, nearby attractions like Streets Beach, South Bank Parklands, and the Queensland Performing Arts Centre are just steps from the classroom. It’s easy to unwind after a day of study with food, music, or a scenic walk.
Brisbane is a very student-friendly city—safe, multicultural, and more affordable than Sydney or Melbourne. The climate is warm year-round, and public transport (buses, trains, ferries) is accessible and affordable.
There are many student accommodation options near campus, or you can live with a homestay family to improve your English and experience Aussie culture firsthand.
Many students work part-time while studying. As a student visa holder, you can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during the semester (and unlimited hours during holidays). The campus careers team can help with:
Writing resumes
Finding part-time jobs
Interview prep
Internships and job placements in your field
What makes Southbank (TAFE Queensland) really stand out is the supportive and welcoming vibe. Whether you're studying nursing, business, IT, or fashion design, you’ll find a community of students and trainers ready to help you succeed.
TAFE Queensland is known for its practical, hands-on training and strong industry connections, which means graduates are often job-ready with real workplace experience. While TAFE doesn’t offer “guaranteed placements” like some universities, it does provide multiple ways to help you gain industry exposure and transition smoothly into the workforce.
Many TAFE courses at the South Bank campus include mandatory or optional work placements as part of the curriculum. These are especially common in fields like:
Nursing (clinical placements in hospitals)
Childcare and Early Childhood Education
Hospitality and Commercial Cookery (internships in real kitchens, hotels, etc.)
Community Services and Aged Care
Engineering and IT (industry projects and internships)
Creative Industries (design portfolios, real-world briefs)
These placements are arranged with local employers, and TAFE helps coordinate the process to ensure it meets the course and visa requirements.
TAFE Queensland has a high graduate employment rate thanks to:
Skills-focused training
Close alignment with industry standards
Trainer connections with real workplaces
Local demand in areas like health, aged care, hospitality, and IT
Many students receive job offers during or shortly after placements, especially in sectors with skill shortages.
TAFE South Bank offers support through its Student Support and Employment Services, which helps students with:
Resume and cover letter writing
Interview preparation
Access to job boards and employer networks
Career workshops and job fairs
Internships and volunteer opportunities
Some courses even include project-based assessments with real companies, giving you practical experience before graduating.
As an international student on a student visa, you’re allowed to work:
Up to 48 hours per fortnight during study periods
Unlimited hours during breaks
Brisbane offers plenty of part-time work in retail, food service, hospitality, and admin roles. Many TAFE students take advantage of this to gain experience and support their living expenses.
Unlike universities, TAFE institutions in Australia like Southbank do not have highly competitive or selective admission processes. Instead, they focus on open access and skills-based education, which means the acceptance rate is generally high.
80% to 90% or higher (for eligible and complete applications)
If you meet the entry requirements, submit complete documentation, and demonstrate that you are a Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE), you are very likely to be accepted.
Meeting academic qualifications (e.g., completion of Year 12 for diplomas)
Meeting English language requirements (e.g., IELTS 5.5–6.5)
Submitting a strong GTE statement
Providing complete documents (passport, transcripts, test scores, etc.)
Having proof of financial capacity to support your studies and stay
Incomplete or incorrect application
Not meeting English or academic requirements
Weak or inconsistent GTE statement
Immigration or visa-related concerns
Southbank Institute of Technology (now TAFE Queensland – South Bank campus) is located at:
66 Ernest Street, South Brisbane, QLD 4101, Australia
Located in South Brisbane, in the heart of the South Bank precinct
Just across the river from Brisbane CBD (Central Business District)
Surrounded by popular attractions like:
South Bank Parklands
Queensland Performing Arts Centre (QPAC)
Brisbane Convention Centre
The Wheel of Brisbane
Museums, art galleries, cafes, and restaurants
Train: Short walk from South Bank Station and South Brisbane Station
Bus: Multiple routes stop nearby (via Cultural Centre Busway or South Bank Busway)
Ferry: Accessible by CityCat ferries via South Bank terminal
Walking distance to Brisbane city center and major student housing
