The Department was created by the amalgamation of sections of the Department of Employment and Administrative Services, the State Employment Task Force and the Job Creation Unit. It was responsible for providing the government with employment and training initiatives programs.

The State Employment and Skills Development Authority (SESDA) was established on 22 March 1991, following the passing of the State Employment and Skills Development Authority Bill through State Parliament in November 1990.

The SESDA Act established 3 components to form the State Employment and Skills Development Authority Network: the State Employment and Skills Development Authority, the Skills Standard and Accreditation Board and Industry Employment and Training Councils.

The Authority took responsibility for establishing and coordinating skills formation policies and services throughout the State, and advising the Government on funding priorities for programs and policies.

On 1 December 1993 the Department of Employment, Vocational Education and Training (DEVET) and the State Employment and Skills Development Authority (SESDA) amalgamated to form the Western Australian Department of Training.