Small Training Provider of the Year

Ironbark Training, founded in Wagga Wagga in 2020 from a simple conviction: that regional communities deserve world-class vocational training delivered where they live and work.
Founded by Dave Joyce — a born-and-bred Wagga local — Ironbark Training is 100% Aboriginal-owned, Supply Nation certified, and family-run. From a one-person start-up to a team of 17 staff and 30 contracted trainers, the organisation has grown to become the primary contracted RTO for some of Australia's most significant infrastructure programs.
In 2025, Ironbark Training delivered 4,737 enrolments across 477 organisations, achieving a 99.2% unit completion rate and zero non-compliances across audits by both ASQA and SafeWork NSW.

SCA Hair & Beauty Academy is a privately owned RTO based in the Illawarra, delivering training in the personal services and creative industries, including beauty therapy, hairdressing, barbering, nail technology, make-up, and screen and media. Operating for over 20 years, the Academy offers skill sets and nationally recognised qualifications from Certificate II through to Diploma level, including apprenticeships and traineeships, SbAT, and EVET programs.
Committed to practical, industry-relevant training, SCA equips students with the skills, knowledge, and confidence needed for successful careers. Flexible training options at SCA ensure that all students can pursue their individual goals and needs.
Through public training clinics, industry partnerships, and community collaborations, students gain valuable hands-on experience, building work-ready skills, confidence, and professional networks.
SCA works closely with employers, schools and community organisations to create meaningful pathways into employment and further training.

SKIVL Training is a leading regional NSW RTO dedicated to transforming access to vocational education across rural, regional and remote communities.
Based in Dubbo, SKIVL Training delivers industry led training across agriculture, civil construction, mining, traffic control, workplace safety and renewable energy, helping learners develop practical skills, gain industry licences and access employment opportunities.
With more than 640 current students, 41 units of competency and 22 skill sets actively delivered, SKIVL Training works closely with employers, industry bodies, government agencies and local communities to ensure training remains responsive to workforce needs. The organisation's strong learner outcomes are reflected in a 100% unit of competency completion rate and a skill set completion rate exceeding 93%.
Committed to removing barriers to training, SKIVL Training delivers education directly to farms, schools, youth justice centres, mine sites and major infrastructure projects. Travelling more than 170,000 kilometres annually, the SKIVL team strengthens regional industries, improves workplace safety and creates lasting opportunities for communities across NSW.