Training package qualifications to be updated on CRICOS

As of 24 July 2014, ASQA will extend a reform previously implemented for registered training organisations (RTOs) to providers registered on the Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students (CRICOS).

The extension of this reform means that ASQA will begin updating equivalent training package qualifications on CRICOS without requiring an application or fee.

When do automatic CRICOS registration updates apply?

Automatic CRICOS registration updates will apply when:

• a training package qualification is superseded with a new training package qualification that the relevant Industry Skills Council has deemed equivalent, and
• a CRICOS provider has that training package qualification on their RTO scope of registration, and the CRICOS provider is registered to deliver the same qualification on CRICOS.

How will this change be initially implemented?

ASQA will commence this reform by updating on providers’ CRICOS registrations all training package qualifications which have been superseded by new equivalent qualifications in the previous 12 months.

This reform was implemented for RTOs on 1 July 2014. To align the CRICOS and RTO implementation dates, ASQA will refund any CRICOS change of scope application fees to add replacement equivalent training package qualification/s received since 1 July 2014.

What will happen after 24 July 2014?

After 24 July 2014, ASQA will automatically update a CRICOS provider’s registration whenever a new equivalent training package qualification supersedes a qualification the provider is registered to deliver as an RTO and on CRICOS.

Providers who do not wish to be registered for a new equivalent training package qualification can apply to withdraw the updated qualification from their CRICOS registration. This does not require payment of a fee.

This reform supports the Australian Government’s policy of minimising regulatory burden on Australian businesses.