The New South Wales unemployment rate has hit a five year low at 4.6 per cent and youth unemployment in New South Wales is the lowest in the nation as a result of the government's strong economic management. Our Vocational Education and Training (VET) services work hand-in-hand with the Commonwealth Government's delivery of employment services and under Smart and Skilled the Government subsidises VET courses on the NSW Skills List. These are qualifications in demand by businesses and so provide students with improved job prospects. The NSW Department of Industry reviews the NSW Skills List throughout the year and has introduced a rolling list to be more responsive to changes in industry needs.

Smart and Skilled also includes concessional fees and fee-free scholarships for disadvantaged students, including students receiving Commonwealth Government welfare benefits (for example unemployment benefits).