The 27-year-old was "financially ruined" and lacked the qualifications to start a career as her former partner controlled her money and dissuaded her from studying.

"Besides the physical abuse and emotional abuse, he also controlled my bank accounts which made it really hard to pay my TAFE fees to further my education and get a job," she said.

The NSW Government will launch fee-free vocational training scholarships for survivors of domestic violence in July, recognising that many people leave abusive relationships in the same predicament as Ms Smith.

Ms Smith said financial assistance would have helped her complete her studies, which she managed to fund herself by selling belongings.

"There are so many women who leave relationships with nothing - no skills, no money and no clear way to get back on their feet," she said.

"This is a brilliant idea to help them feel like a normal, respected human again."

Ms Smith went on to get an apprenticeship as an automotive mechanic - confronting her two biggest fears, men and cars - and credits the experience with aiding her recovery from the abuse.

"It helped me meet people and regain all the confidence I'd lost," she said.

"I had been at such a low point, I felt as if I was adding nothing beneficial to the world. I felt like a burden. Working and getting an education changed my entire outlook."

Currently employed at a car dealership in Canberra, Ms Smith also volunteers running car maintenance courses for women, showing them everything from how to change a tyre to jump starting a vehicle.

"It's so nice to be able to teach them skills I had learned at TAFE," she said.

Survivors of domestic violence and their eligible children will be able to apply for fee-free scholarships from July 1 under the NSW Government subsidised Smart and Skilled program.

Minister for Skills John Barilaro​ said the scholarships would help people gain a qualification to enter the workforce, upskill or change careers.

"Fleeing domestic violence can be the most challenging decision anyone makes – and we know sadly many people stay in dangerous homes due to a lack of financial independence," he said.

"Training and education to get into the workforce is a great way to support the most vulnerable in our community seeking to rebuild their lives."

Applicants will have to provide a letter of recommendation from a domestic and family violence service, including Legal Aid NSW, homelessness services or the Department of Family and Community Services.

Domestic Violence Line 1800 656 463

Men's Line 1300 789 978