NSW Smart
& Skilled.
Government-subsidised training for eligible NSW residents. Study a nationally recognised qualification at AGA for a subsidised student fee, and in some cases a reduced fee or no fee.
What is NSW Smart & Skilled?
Smart & Skilled is a NSW Government initiative that makes vocational education and training (VET) more accessible and affordable for eligible NSW residents. Under this program the government subsidises the cost of approved qualifications, and you pay a student fee set by the NSW Government. Some students pay a concession fee or no fee.
Australian Global Academy (RTO 45229) is an approved Smart & Skilled provider, delivering funded qualifications at our Bankstown campus in Western Sydney.
Am I eligible?
To access Smart & Skilled subsidised training you generally need to meet all of the following:
- NSW resident — Australian citizen, permanent resident, or eligible visa holder
- Aged 15 or older and not currently attending secondary school
- Do not already hold, or are not enrolled in, a higher-level qualification in the same field
- Meet any course-specific entry requirements set by AGA
Exemptions, concessions and scholarships
Most eligible students pay the standard Smart and Skilled student fee. Some pay less, or nothing:
- Fee exemption (no student fee). Eligible Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students, and eligible students with disability and dependants of Disability Support Pension recipients, do not pay a student fee.
- Concession fee. Eligible recipients of certain Commonwealth benefits, and their dependants, pay a reduced concession fee. Concession fees apply to Certificate I to IV qualifications only, not Diplomas.
- Fee-Free Scholarships. Some students may qualify for a Fee-Free Scholarship for qualifications up to Certificate IV, for example eligible young people who are entitled to a concession, young people who are or were in out-of-home care, and people affected by domestic and family violence. Diplomas are not covered.
Eligibility and fee rules are set by the NSW Government and can change. See the official Skills NSW pages on Smart and Skilled eligibility, fee-free and concession training and Fee-Free Scholarships, or contact AGA. We confirm your eligibility and your fee in writing before you enrol.
How does Smart & Skilled work at AGA?
Check your eligibility
Confirm you meet the NSW Smart & Skilled criteria. Our student services team can walk you through the requirements and help determine your eligibility.
Choose your qualification
Select from AGA's range of Smart & Skilled funded qualifications. We'll match you to the right course based on your goals and experience.
Enrol with AGA
Complete your enrolment and provide eligibility documentation. AGA submits your details to the NSW Government to confirm your funded place.
Start training
Begin your government-subsidised course. You pay the Smart and Skilled student fee for your course, or a concession fee or no fee if you are eligible. We confirm your fee in writing before you enrol.
Qualifications available at AGA
The following AGA qualifications may be available under Smart & Skilled. Subject to NSW Government funding rules and availability.
Funded status and financial caps are set by the NSW Government and subject to change each Activity Period. Call 1300 151 528 to confirm current availability.
Ready to study with government funding?
Our student services team will help you check your eligibility and find the right Smart & Skilled course at AGA.