Becoming an RTO (Registered Training Organisation) in New South Wales involves several steps and requires compliance with various regulations and standards set by the Australian Skills Quality Authority (ASQA). The process includes obtaining the necessary qualifications, developing course materials, establishing policies and procedures, and submitting an application to ASQA. The application is assessed based on various criteria, including the quality of training and assessment, student support, and compliance with regulatory requirements.
If you’re interested in becoming an RTO in NSW, it’s essential to understand the requirements and follow the necessary steps.
Steps to start an RTO in New South Wales
If you’re interested in starting an RTO (Registered Training Organisation) in New South Wales, there are several steps you need to follow. These steps are outlined by the Australian Skills Quality Authority (ASQA) and are aimed at ensuring the quality of training and assessment provided meets the standards expected by students and employers.
Step 1: Meet the Requirements
Before submitting your application to become an RTO, you need to make sure that you meet the requirements set by ASQA. This includes having: the necessary qualifications, resources, and facilities to provide high-quality training and assessment. You will see more about this below.
Step 2: Submit Your Application
Once you have met the requirements, you can submit your application to ASQA. In New South Wales, if you plan to offer any course, either in-class or online, within ACT, NSW, NT, QLD, SA, and TAS, or courses to overseas students in Australia on a student visa, you must apply for registration with ASQA.
Step 3: Undergo Assessment
ASQA will undertake a rigorous assessment process of your application to ensure your compliance with the RTO standards. This will include a review of your policies and procedures, resources, and facilities, as well as a site audit.
Step 4: Receive Notification of the Decision
Once the assessment is completed, you will be notified of ASQA’s decision. If successful, you will be registered as an RTO, and if not, you will be notified of why.
Step 5: Register as Education Services for Overseas Students (if applicable)
If you intend to deliver VET to overseas students in Australia on a student visa, you must also register as an Education Services for Overseas Students (ESOS) provider. This involves registering on the Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students (CRICOS). It is important to note that this step is only necessary if you plan to offer courses to overseas students in Australia on a student visa.
Requirements for starting an RTO in New South Wales
To become an RTO (Registered Training Organisation) in NSW, you must meet certain requirements set by the Australian Skills Quality Authority (ASQA) to ensure the quality of training and assessment provided meets the standards expected by students and employers.
1. Provide evidence of your financial viability
You need to demonstrate that you have sufficient financial resources to operate as an RTO. This includes providing financial statements, profit and loss statements, and cash flow projections.
2. Meet the fit and proper person requirements
You and any other key personnel involved in the operation of the RTO must be declared as fit and proper persons. This means you have not been convicted of any relevant criminal offences, have not had any regulatory action taken against you, and are not bankrupt or insolvent.
3. Develop a quality management system
You must develop a quality management system that meets the requirements of the Standards for Registered Training Organisations (RTOs) 2015. This includes policies and procedures for the delivery and assessment of training, as well as continuous improvement processes.
4. Provide evidence of training and assessment resources
You must provide evidence that you have sufficient training and assessment resources to deliver high-quality training and assessment services. This includes qualified trainers and assessors, appropriate facilities, equipment, and learning resources.
5. Meet the requirements of the relevant training package or accredited course
You must ensure that your training and assessment services are designed and delivered in accordance with the requirements of the relevant training package or accredited course.
6. Comply with relevant legislation and regulatory requirements
You must comply with all relevant legislation and regulatory requirements, including workplace health and safety, anti-discrimination, and privacy laws.
Approval or rejection for your application
Application approval:
If your RTO application is approved by ASQA, you will receive a registration certificate and a letter outlining your obligations. Your RTO may have all of its training products approved, or there may be specific conditions attached to the approval.
It’s important to note that new RTOs are typically approved for an initial period of two years to allow ASQA to assess and manage any potential entry-to-market risks.
At the end of your initial registration period, you will need to demonstrate consistent performance and implementation against the standards to renew your registration. Ongoing compliance with the VET Quality Framework is also your responsibility as a registered RTO. This means that you will need to manage and monitor your RTO’s activities and ensure that your operations are compliant with all applicable regulations.
It’s important to familiarise yourself with your obligations as an RTO to maintain compliance and avoid any potential issues. If you’re unsure, you can consult an RTO compliance expert.
Rejection:
If your application for RTO registration is not approved, ASQA will provide you with the reasons for their decision in writing. Your application may be rejected due to reasons such as incomplete information, failure to provide required evidence on time or in the correct format, non-compliance with the VET Quality Framework, not meeting the financial viability risk assessment requirements, or key staff not meeting the fit and proper person requirements.
If you disagree with the decision, ASQA will send you a letter explaining why your registration was not approved. It’s important to note that you can appeal the decision if you believe that there were errors in the assessment process or if you have additional information that wasn’t previously provided.
How long will it take to start an RTO in New South Wales?
The approval timeline for becoming an RTO is typically within 6 months if your application is complete when submitted. However, the process can vary depending on the complexity of the application and the volume of applications being processed by ASQA. It is recommended to check ASQA’s website for updated information and guidelines on the process.
Other considerations for starting a New South Wales RTO
When considering how to start an RTO in New South Wales, it’s important to keep in mind that the process may seem daunting at first. However, with the right support and guidance, it is possible to navigate the unique requirements of the vocational education and training industry.
One important consideration is compliance with the VET Quality Framework, which sets out the national standards for RTOs. This includes requirements for training and assessment strategies, qualified trainers and assessors, and student support services.
Additionally, funding is a crucial aspect to consider, both from state and federal sources. You will need to become familiar with the various funding streams and eligibility criteria and ensure that you can meet the reporting and accountability requirements.
It’s also important to stay up-to-date with changes to training packages, as they may affect your RTO. It’s important to remain informed about the latest developments in your industry and adapt your training offerings accordingly.
For help kick-starting your RTO
Starting an RTO in New South Wales can be a challenging but rewarding endeavour.
Providing quality training and assessment services can positively impact the lives and careers of students and contribute to the development of a skilled workforce. If you need assistance in navigating the complexities of starting an RTO, there are resources and support available.
Seeking advice from experienced RTO consultants or industry associations, and taking advantage of training and professional development opportunities can enhance your skills and knowledge. You can contact us online or learn more about our RTO start-up services, which can help give your RTO a head start and boost in the right direction.
In Queensland? Check out How To Start An RTO In QLD.
