Sixty years of VTAC
Six decades of education journeys
For sixty years, VTAC has helped generations of Victorians take their next step in education.
What began in 1966 as a shared admission service for three universities has evolved alongside Victoria’s education system, connecting learners with an ever-growing range of courses, institutions and pathways.
As we celebrate 60 years, we’re looking back at the people, moments and changes that shaped our story, and looking forward to the journey still to come.
A message from our CEO: Celebrating 60 years of VTAC
“Reaching 60 years is a wonderful opportunity to reflect on how far VTAC has come, and the educational journeys we have supported along the way. For six decades, VTAC has played a vital role in connecting learners with Victorian tertiary institutions, as generations have made decisions about their futures, supported by schools, families, tertiary institutions and the people of VTAC.
VTAC continues to demonstrate what's possible through collaboration, evolving a shared service admissions model that makes the process easier for prospective students and delivers value for tertiary institutions.
While much has changed since 1966, creating opportunity remains at the heart of what we do. I'm proud to lead VTAC as we celebrate this milestone and excited for our shared journey towards 2030.”
- Teresa Tjia
Six decades. Countless stories.
Every VTAC application represents something bigger than a preference or an offer. It represents someone marking a decision about their future.
Since 1966, those journeys have taken many different forms. From paper applications to printed guides to online applications and digital services. From three universities to a tertiary landscape encompassing universities, TAFEs and independent providers.
While the transition to tertiary study looks different from sixty years ago, it still represents opportunity. VTAC continues to support students taking the next step on their educational journey.
Your stories. Six decades of education journeys.
Trevor
Applied through VTAC in 1978
Amanda
Applied through VTAC in 2001
Amy
Applied through VTAC in 2003
Jon
Applied through VTAC in 1977
60 Years in numbers
Where we began
13,000 applications
6,000 offers
26 courses
3 universities
30 years on
69,061 applications
55,304 offers
33 tertiary institutions
60 years later
68,116 applications
67,483 offers
46 tertiary institutions
Celebrating 60 years
Bringing our community together
In 2026, VTAC marks 60 years since representatives from Victoria's three universities first came together to create a more coordinated approach to tertiary admissions.
Our 60-year celebration brings together the people and partners who have contributed to that journey, recognising the history we've shared and looking ahead to the future of tertiary access.
Looking ahead
The journey continues
The next chapter of tertiary education will look very different from the first.
Learners are moving between education and work in increasingly different ways, technology is transforming how people explore their options, and expectations for simpler, more personalised experiences continue to grow.
Through our Towards 2030 strategy, VTAC is building on six decades of experience while transforming how we support learners and the tertiary sector.
Our focus remains clear: making access to further education simpler, more transparent and more inclusive, and helping learners navigate the opportunities ahead.
What's your VTAC story?
For six decades, Victorians have used VTAC to take their next step.
Perhaps you remember circling courses in the VTAC Guide. Waiting for the newspaper to publish offers. Receiving your ENTER by SMS. Refreshing the website for your ATAR. Or helping someone else navigate their choices.
We'd love to hear your story.