The participation of women in vocational education and training (VET) in Australia in 1996-1999 was examined. Data for the analysis were obtained from annual national VET data collections and relevant reports. The analysis focused on the following areas: general trends, fields of study, qualifications, areas of learning, module outcomes, employment outcomes, and outcomes achieved by specific target equity groups. From 1996 to 1999, the number of women undertaking a VET program increased by 26%, whereas the number of men in VET increased by 20%. In 1999, proportionally fewer women than men were enrolled in the following fields: engineering/surveying; land and marine resources/animal husbandry; and architecture/building. In 1999, both women and men were likely to be undertaking higher-level courses than in 1996. Proportionately fewer women and men were enrolled in courses in the technical and further education (TAFE) "multifield education" field of study in 1999 than in 1996. Overall, little variation in the outcomes achieved by men and women between 1996 and 1999 was found. Men had proportionally more recognition of prior learning and credit transfer than women. In May 1999, 30.9% of women TAFE graduates and 56.6% of male TAFE graduates were employed full time. (Contains 97 tables/figures.) (MN)