Studying to become a high school teacher in Victoria will be free as the government tries to stem workforce shortages.

Up to $93.2 million will go towards scholarships to support teaching students throughout 2024 and 2025, with the final payments made if they work in state-run schools for two years after they graduate.

The program if similar to one running for nursing students that started this year.

It’s for permanent residents and Australian citizens who live and are studying in Victoria and for secondary school qualified teachers, where shortages are most acute, Premier Daniel Andrews said on Tuesday.

“We think about 4000 graduates will be subject to this and will be literally the best part of $18,000 better off for undergraduate and $9000 for a postgraduate,” he said.

The announcement was part of a wider $229.8m package to grow school workforces.

– AAP