Under the memorandum of understanding, athletes will be given personalised support to balance their sporting commitments and vocational training.

The number of athletes seeking professional career advice through the AIS Career Practitioner Referral Network more than doubled in 2020 with around 20 per cent of these athletes going on to enrol at TAFE or university to support their post-sport career aspirations.

Mr Lee said TAFE NSW will join the Elite Athlete Education Network, firming its reputation as a world-class vocational education and training provider.

“This partnership cements TAFE NSW as a provider of choice for elite athletes who want flexibility and personalised support to gain employment skills while they compete at the elite level,” Mr Lee said.

“We’re proud to be partnering with the Australian Institute of Sport to help deliver the skilled workforce Australia needs now and into the future.”

Elite athletes enrolled at TAFE NSW will receive a nominated point of contact to provide advice and guidance on academic planning, course management and timetabling.

Australian Institute of Sport CEO Peter Conde said the agreement will support elite athletes who may have missed the opportunity to obtain formal skills.

“This is great news for elite athletes who can take advantage of the wide range of courses and flexible study options offered by TAFE NSW,” Mr Conde said.

“Education and training enable Australian athletes to learn, thrive and contribute to the community during their time in high-performance sport and life afterwards.”