Renewing your RTO registration is a crucial step for any registered training organisation (RTO) in Australia.
It allows you to continue delivering quality training and assessment services to your learners and industry partners, as well as meeting the regulatory standards and obligations set by the Australian Skills Quality Authority (ASQA), the Victorian Registration and Qualifications Authority (VRQA), or the Training Accreditation Council (TAC), depending on your jurisdiction.
According to ASQA, there are currently 4,123 RTOs in Australia as of October 2023. However, not all of them have a valid registration status.
In fact, 1,024 RTOs have their registration expiry date within the next 12 months. If you are one of them, you need to act fast and apply for RTO registration renewal before it is too late.
How to renew RTO registration
The process of renewing your RTO registration varies depending on which regulator you are registered with. However, the general steps and requirements are similar for all RTOs.
How to renew your RTO registration with ASQA, VRQA, or TAC:
- Apply at least 90 days before the expiry date: You need to submit your renewal application at least 90 days before your current registration expires. This will give you enough time to prepare your application and undergo a performance assessment (audit) by your regulator. If you fail to apply within this timeframe, your registration will lapse, and you will have to reapply as a new RTO.
- Pay the application lodgement fee and the annual registration charge: You need to pay a non-refundable application lodgment fee of $500 when you submit your renewal application. You also need to pay an annual registration charge based on the number of qualifications and units of competency that you deliver. The annual registration charge for 2023 ranges from $1,100 to $6,600.
- Demonstrate compliance with the standards and obligations: You need to show that you comply with the relevant standards and obligations for your RTO,
- The Standards for Registered Training Organisations (RTOs) 2015
- The Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF)
- The Data Provision Requirements 2012
- The Fit and Proper Person Requirements 2011
- The Financial Viability Risk Assessment Requirements 2011
- The Users’ Guide to the Standards for Registered Training Organisations (RTOs) 2015
- Provide evidence documents: You need to provide evidence documents that support your compliance claims and demonstrate your E-A-T as an RTO.
- Training and assessment strategies
- Assessment tools and records
- Learner feedback surveys
- Industry consultation reports
- Staff qualifications and professional development records
- Policies and procedures
- Financial statements
To prepare a successful renewal application, tips and resources:
Use ASQA’s self-assessment tool:
- This is a free online tool that helps you assess your compliance with the standards and identify any gaps or areas for improvement.
- You can use this tool before or during your renewal application process.
Review ASQA’s guidance and resources:
- ASQA provides various guidance and resources on its website to help you understand the standards and obligations for your RTO.
Seek professional advice from experts like Audit Express:
- RTO Solution is a leading provider of audit services and consultancy for RTOs in Australia.
- They can help you with preparing your renewal application, conducting internal audits, providing feedback and recommendations, and supporting you during external audits by ASQA, VRQA, or TAC.
Conclusion
Renewing your RTO registration is not only a legal requirement but also a strategic opportunity for your RTO. It allows you to demonstrate your E-A-T as an RTO and ensure your sustainability and competitiveness in the VET sector.
To renew your RTO registration, you need to apply at least 90 days before the expiry date, pay the relevant fees, demonstrate compliance with the standards and obligations, and provide evidence documents.
You also need to undergo a performance assessment (audit) by ASQA, VRQA, or TAC and receive a decision notice from them.
