The skill needs of Australian high-technology start-up companies and the implications of those skill needs for vocational education and training (VET) were examined through a study of 14 start-ups' inherent abilities to access the VET system and on VET's relevance to their needs. The case studies documented a strong demand and role for VET in the establishment and development of small global high-tech companies. Training provided by the VET system was implicated in the following areas: technical skills in photonics and biomedical/diagnostic areas; electrical and mechanical engineering; production and manufacturing; project, financial, and team-based management; recruitment and human resources; quality assurance; sales and marketing; and occupational and environmental health and safety. The study companies appeared to be as fully engaged with Australia's VET system as possible within the limitations of existing conditions. Several mutually beneficial methods for increasing interaction between the study companies and VET were identified. Two such methods were including photonics in training packages and government subsidies for short course delivery to new workers in high technology based companies. None of the companies anticipated the need for apprentices or trainees and most saw a technical and further education diploma as the minimum qualification for entry to employment. (Thirty-nine tables/figures are included. Lists of the information sources and individuals interviewed are appended.) (MN)