The Smart and Skilled program is an NSW Government initiative that offers eligible individuals access to government-subsidised vocational education and training (VET). This program aims to equip participants with the skills needed to secure employment, advance their careers, or pursue further education.​

As a registered provider of the NSW Government’s Smart and Skilled program, Lead College offers fee-free training options for eligible students. This program provides government-subsidised training to help individuals gain qualifications in high-demand skills and industries.

https://www.nsw.gov.au/education-and-training/vocational/funding/smart-skilled-training-providers

https://www.nsw.gov.au/education-and-training/vocational/funding/nsw-skills-list?utm

Eligibility Criteria:

To qualify for Smart and Skilled training, applicants must:​

https://education.nsw.gov.au/skills-nsw/students-and-job-seekers/low-cost-and-free-training-options/smart-and-skilled-training

• Be at least 15 years old
• No longer be attending school
• Be residing or employed in New South Wales
• Be an Australian citizen, permanent resident, humanitarian visa holder, or New Zealand citizen​

Additional eligibility considerations apply to specific groups, including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and students with disabilities. ​
https://www.nsw.gov.au/education-and-training/vocational/funding/smart-skilled-employers

Program Benefits:

Smart and Skilled provides:​

An entitlement to government-subsidised training up to and including Certificate III

• Government funding for higher-level courses (Certificate IV and above) in targeted priority areas​

The program also offers fee exemptions for certain disadvantaged groups, such as students with disabilities and those receiving specific government benefits. ​

NSW Skills List:

The NSW Skills List outlines the qualifications eligible for government subsidy under Smart and Skilled. This list is reviewed annually to align with the evolving needs of NSW industries and includes qualifications up to Advanced Diploma level.
https://www.nsw.gov.au/education-and-training/vocational/funding/nsw-skills-list?

Fees and Subsidies:

The NSW Government sets qualification prices and student fees for Smart and Skilled training. The student fee is consistent across all approved providers and covers the full qualification, not just a semester or yearly fee. Additional charges, if any, must be disclosed to students upfront.

For more detailed information or to check your eligibility, visit the https://skills.education.nsw.gov.au/

Apply Now

• Government-subsidised training under NSW Smart and Skilled program
• Available to eligible students living or working in New South Wales (NSW)
• Significantly reduced course fees – lower upfront costs for quality training
• Designed to meet industry demand and improve employability
• Includes a mix of theoretical knowledge and practical skills
• Work placement support provided (or credit if already working in the field)
• Flexible blended delivery – online, in-class, and practical components
• Courses delivered at various Lead College campuses across NSW

Eligibility includes:

• Be at least 15 years old
• No longer be attending school
• Be living or working in New South Wales
• Be an Australian citizen, permanent resident, humanitarian visa holder, or New Zealand citizen

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Ideal for school leavers, career changers, or current workers upskilling

Our Courses

Lead College is a nationally recognised training provider committed to delivering high-quality, industry-relevant education that empowers students to succeed in today’s workforce. With a wide range of accredited courses across sectors such as Community Services, Health, Construction, and Early Childhood Education, Lead College equips learners with the practical skills and knowledge needed to thrive in real-world environments. Whether you’re just starting out, upskilling, or changing careers, Lead College offers flexible, supportive, and career-focused training—many of which are Smart and Skilled approved and eligible for government-subsidised funding in New South Wales. Lead College is entitled to run Apprenticeships and Traineeships and Full Qualification in various courses. Visit out course information page to see what we are are currently offering.

https://www.leadcollege.edu.au/entitlement-full-qualifications/

Connect with us

For More information about smart and skilled courses contact our team or submit an enquiry enquiry form to be attached that should be received by [email protected]

Or call us at +61 412 237 268