About RTOs

What is a registered training organisation (RTO)?

Registered training organisations (RTOs) are those training providers registered by ASQA (or, in some cases, a state regulator) to deliver VET services.

RTOs are recognised as providers of quality-assured and nationally recognised training and qualifications.

There are currently around 5000 RTOs in Australia. A complete list of RTOs is maintained at www.training.gov.au, which is the authoritative national register of the VET sector in Australia. 

Why use an RTO?

Only RTOs can:

  • deliver nationally recognised courses and accredited AQF VET qualifications,
  • apply for Australian, state and territory funding to deliver vocational education and training.

RTOs can offer qualifications at the following levels:

  • Certificates I, II, III and IV
  • Diploma
  • Advanced Diploma
  • Vocational Graduate Certificate
  • Vocational Graduate Diploma.

Being registered by ASQA means an RTO must act in your best interests and meet the Standards for NVR Registered Training Organisations.

Which RTOs are regulated by ASQA?

ASQA is, at present, responsible for regulating some RTOs, as responsibility for VET regulation in Australia is transferring to ASQA in a phased process.

NSW ACT and NT

If, prior to 1 July 2011, a provider was registered in New South Wales, the Australian Capital Territory or the Northern Territory, responsibility for its registration has been transferred to ASQA.

Tasmania and South Australia

ASQA commenced regulation of providers in Tasmania on 1 March 2012, and regulation of providers in South Australia on 26 March 2012.

QLD

If, prior to 1 July 2011, an RTO was registered in Queensland or South Australia, responsibility for its registration will be transferred to ASQA later this year. The RTO remains with its existing regulator until the state refers its powers to the Commonwealth.

The state regulators are:

Queensland—Training and Employment Recognition Council www.training.qld.gov.au
South Australia—Training and Skills Commission www.tasc.sa.gov.au.

VIC and WA

RTOs in Victoria or Western Australia it will continue to be registered by the existing state regulator if:

  • the RTO only provides services in Victoria and/or Western Australia
  • the RTO only provides services to domestic students (that is, it does not have CRICOS registration).

ASQA is now the regulator for some RTOs in Victoria and Western Australia. ASQA regulates an RTO if:

  • the RTO enrols international students or operates in a referring state
  • the organisation is a trading corporation.

Students in Victoria and Western Australia who are unsure whether ASQA is responsible for the regulation of their RTO shold contact the ASQA info line on 1300 701 801 or email enquiries@asqa.gov.au.