PRG communiques

The Provider Roundtable is ASQA’s primary forum for strategic engagement and consultation with the peak VET, dual sector and English language provider associations on regulatory design, reform and benefits realisation.

Revised Standards for RTOs

• The meeting discussed ASQA’s work in collaboration with Department of Employment and Workplace Relations DEWR to support transition to the revised Standards for Registered Training Organisations which will come into full regulatory effect from 1 July 2025.
• Standards for RTOs are a core part of a provider’s business practice and central to maintaining and improving quality VET. The Provider Roundtable members recognised a shared agenda and opportunities in supporting the sector to implement revised Standards underpinned by provider diligence and commitment to review and improvement.
• Members discussed the really important opportunity for providers take a fresh look at current systems policy and practices, to step back and review their operations holistically in the context of the revised standards to ensure they are not just complying but striving for quality outcomes aligned with industry trends and learner needs.
• There was strong interest in the nature of ASQA’s approach and support for the sector by way of practice guidance and education in various formats – guidance, website updates, podcasts, newsletters.
• ASQA reiterated that its approach was not to ‘catch providers out’ but that Revised Standards were an opportunity for ASQA to build on work over recent years to support the sector in improving its capacity for managing risks to quality and delivering continuous improvement and excellence in training outcomes.

Service Delivery

• Members received an update on ASQA’s performance against service standards applicable to interactions with regulated entities and applicants for registration. Service Standards set out the level of service that can be expected when dealing with ASQA under normal circumstances.
• The results were considered in three groups:
  • providers that were current RTOs
  • market entry service standards; and
  • service standards relating to course accreditation. 

ASQA has performed well against Service Standards for RTOs across Quarter 1 of 2024/25 except for the standard relating to time taken to communicate the outcome of an evidence review.

• The members heard of challenges in meeting targets for processing of applications for market entry and noted some improvements in train for Service Standards taking effect for the remainder of 2024/25. Further information will be available on these changes and will be circulated more widely shortly.
• ASQA committed to share with members a summary report on the 2024 Provider and Course Owner Survey Outcomes which is soon to be published on the ASQA website. The survey is independently run by ORIMA Research and provides important feedback to ASQA on its performance to inform continuous improvement.
• Members received an overview of ASQA’s Digital Transformation Program over the next 12 months, with a particular focus on the key program principles of Human Centred Design and Data Driven Delivery and key program deliverables. The priority was on delivering against the three focus areas of Integrity, Revised RTO Standards, and Service Standards, closely connected to ASQA’s regulatory practice reform.
• ASQA thanked members for their support in getting over 100 RTO respondents to contribute their experiences to the current ASQA website and design of the new Provider Portal. Engagement will continue across the next 3-6 months.

Integrity

• The integrity of national qualifications is a shared objective. Employers and the community must have confidence in the integrity of qualifications issued by registered training organisations. Members noted ASQA’s recent “compliance blitz” which involved announced and unannounced provider site visits was quite public and very successful. ASQA referred members to the ASQA annual report for a full account of its actions.
• Members heard that ASQA has received over 3,000 tip offs since the tip-off line was established in October 2023. There was interest in the process ASQA applies to determines if a tip off is credible/reliable. Aggregated data from various data holdings and sources is key.
• Whilst ASQA has seen some reductions in complaints about providers over the last 2-3 years, the launch of the tip-off line in October 2023 has provided valuable information for ASQA to respond to more egregious behaviour, rather than minor non-compliance.
• Members welcomed greater visibility of our role and regulatory approach, as well as our activities, actions and responses to key risks and emerging VET sector issues via publication of our Regulation Report.
• Members heard of recent action by ASQA to cancel the registration of Registered Training Organisation (RTO) Luvium Pty Ltd and issuance of notice of intent to cancel qualifications of former students of Luvium, as part of its ongoing work to ensure the integrity of qualifications gained through Australia’s VET sector.

Reform

• Members heard about two measures ASQA was implementing to deliver on the government’s response to the Australian Universities Accord Final report. ASQA shares regulatory responsibility with TEQSA for more than 60 dual sector providers. ASQA and TEQSA are planning a series of workshops for late 2024 and into 2025 to focus on barriers to more streamlined regulation. This project will produce a dual sector strategy including initiatives to support appropriate consideration of greater harmonisation of regulation and regulatory practices.
• In the six months from November 2024 to the end of May 2025, ASQA is also piloting Delegation of Course Accreditation to a selected number of TAFEs. The pilot will test where this delegation can be implemented in such a way to allow TAFEs greater flexibility and responsiveness to industry needs while still safeguarding the integrity of VET accredited courses.

Next Meeting date 4th February 2025 (to be confirmed).

The ASQA Provider Roundtable (PRT) held its second 2024 meeting on 27 August.

The meeting was chaired by the Deputy Chief Executive Officer Christina Bolger, with an opening address presented by Chief Executive Officer, Saxon Rice.

Board Chairs for each of the member peak bodies were also invited to attend this initial meeting for the new financial year.

Key areas of focus

ASQA discussed areas of focus over the next financial year, noting that there is a joint mandate for quality and integrity and that the ability to be responsive to risk and to changes in our shared operating environment has never been more important as a modern regulator.

ASQA discussed the implementation of seminal reforms to improve and mature the legislative framework of the VET sector. 

These reforms, agreed to across government, include legislative changes and investment in ASQA’s capability to uphold the integrity of the sector, as well as finalisation of revised Standards for RTOs. The revised Standards, to be implemented in 2025, will mature the capability and capacity of the sector to deliver quality outcomes for students and industry. 

ASQA updated PRT on initiatives to support the sector’s ‘harmonisation’ within the tertiary sector. The harmonisation initiatives include a pilot to delegate the course accreditation function to TAFE, and work relating to the dual sector strategy.

Engagement is planned to support the upcoming revision of ASQA’s cost recovery model and associated Cost Recovery Implementation Statement. Members recognised the level of awareness of cost recovery is low and that there is a shared interest in further information and engagement to build understanding among providers.

ASQA’s implementation of these areas of focus will be key aspects for PRT members in their respective roles as sector leaders and their work to achieve the best outcomes for students, industry, governments and the community. Members stressed the need for transparency and clarity in light of the changes impacting providers at present. 

Integrity Unit 

ASQA discussed its 2024-25 published regulatory risk priorities, in particular on the significant program of work being undertaken by ASQA’s Integrity Unit. Focus areas for the Integrity Unit are International Delivery, Fraud, and Fit and Proper Persons. Compliance blitzes have targeted non-genuine providers and training delivery to overseas students, deploying a range of regulatory tools targeting student attendance, venues and resourcing, student recruitment practices and agent management, student protections, financial viability and false and misleading marketing practices. 

ASQA continues to monitor sector performance and actively enforce compliance regarding delivery to overseas students. This is enhanced by collaboration across multiple government agencies including Australian Border Force, Home Affairs and Australian Federal Police. Joint investigations which exercise the powers of each agency have been successful in tackling bad faith operators.

ASQA’s use of enforcement powers to deter and disrupt fraudulent conduct and the exploitation of vulnerable students has imposed an increased number of sanctions on providers. In the 2023-24 financial year ASQA made 83 decisions to cancel registration in full or not to renew registration. Of these there were 52 decisions related to providers who deliver to overseas students. 

PRT members discussed the need for clear and transparent data about the nature of integrity work and the type of illegal and non-compliant activity being investigated by ASQA, including through data and case studies. ASQA is committed to keeping stakeholders informed through the Annual Report, the Corporate Plan, publicly available Quarterly Regulation Report, and regular publications ASQA IQ and ASQA Update.

Revised Standards

ASQA provided an update on preparations for the revised Standards for Registered Training Organisations (the Standards) and how ASQA’s regulatory approach will best reflect the diversity of the VET sector and the differing models and maturity of RTOs. Information about the revised Standards will be provided by DEWR.

PRT members led a discussion about how guidance material might best support providers to interpret and implement the revised Standards and sought confirmation of ongoing consultation throughout the implementation stages. PRT discussed the need to take lessons from 2015 Standards implementation, particularly in the area of transition arrangements and offered to provide input to identify issues and communicate the practicalities of the revised Standards. 

Service delivery

ASQA acknowledges the expectation that Commonwealth entities continuously maintain their regulatory systems throughout the regulatory life cycle and achieve outcomes cost-effectively for Australians and businesses. ASQA also recognises that this is closely linked to digital and data capability and stronger foundations for a forward-looking and agile use of technology in our regulation.

Members recognised the important role PRT can play in supporting ASQA to make use of technology in our regulation and welcomed engagement on a staged implementation of improvements to productivity, service standards and user experience in dealing with the regulator. Members highlighted the related issues of data collection and the need to work across government to streamline data collection.

A forward cycle of engagement will be established with PRT to optimise ASQA’s digital transformation program, with specific testing that can be undertaken with Stakeholder Liaison Groups. Members were assured that cyber security is a priority which is addressed through compliant technology and systems.
ASQA’s annual reporting is transparent about performance against its key performance indicators and utilises a range of inputs including service standards, provider feedback from annual survey and complaints information. An overview of outcomes of the independent ORIMA provider and Course owner survey will be shared with PRT before publication on ASQA’s website.

Next meeting

Proposed Date: Wednesday 16 October 2024.

The ASQA Provider Roundtable (PRT) held its first meeting for 2024 on 26 March.

PRT was chaired by the Deputy Chief Executive Officer Christina Bolger. The Chair provided a general briefing, noting that ASQA has published the quarterly update and an inaugural Regulation report to provide greater visibility of our role as regulator.

Integrity measures

ASQA advised that to date over 1000 tip-offs have been received through the tip-off line. These tip-offs are an amplification of input and intelligence leading to more lines of enquiry and investigation. This information supports building our network intelligence capability.

Discussion focussed on the triage mechanisms ASQA uses to ensure vexatious tip-offs (such as those from competitor RTOs or ex-staff members) are identified. Members were assured that tip-offs are viewed in the context of ASQA’s broader intelligence holdings, and that the sector should not fear punitive regulatory action stemming from disingenuous tip-offs.

Standards for Registered Training Organisations 2015

ASQA provided an update on the early changes to the Standards for RTOs that came into effect on 1 March. The changes, which aim to address current pressures on the VET workforce, have received broad sector support. The changes include updated trainer and assessor requirements and strengthened Fit and Proper Person Requirements.

PRT were encouraged to support and amplify the messaging for their members to establish a consistent understanding of providers’ obligation to ensure that key personnel meet the Fit and Proper Person Requirements. ASQA continues to work with DEWR on the revised Standards and is currently assessing implementation requirements.

Service Standards

ASQA advised that while the agency is meeting some of its service standards, we are falling short on others. ASQA has a clear program of work to address this shortfall, including investment in systems and data to manage a high volume of applications. This program of work will help provide a more efficient service and reduce delays for providers and applicants.

Cost Recovery

ASQA is about to commence a review of the Cost Recovery Model and Cost Recovery Implementation Statement (CRIS). ASQA will engage with stakeholders including PRT members in the development of this new CRIS.

Partnering in communication

PRT noted that the various VET reforms currently in progress present opportunities for collaboration between ASQA and PRT members. In particular, promotion of provider strategies to support student wellbeing and good governance will be a key focus. Another key component of this collaborative approach will be transition to the revised Standards. ASQA would like to understand how we can better partner with members to jointly convey messaging that supports the sector through this transition.

Opportunities for greater engagement were discussed including open invitations for ASQA to attend meetings and events hosted by members, and scheduling special purpose PRT meetings when there is a need to engage on a particular topic. Members were encouraged to reach out to ASQA when opportunities for collaboration and sector engagement arise.

Current Legislative amendments

The Chair provided an update on recent and upcoming legislative changes in the sector. The Education Services for Overseas Students Amendment (Integrity Measures) Bill 2024 is expected to be tabled in Parliament later this year.

ASQA advised that legislative amendments to amend the National Vocation Education and Training Regulator Act to strengthen quality and integrity in VET passed the Senate last week and are awaiting Royal Assent. The amendments provide greater protection for students and provide ASQA with additional powers to take decisive action to address RTO non-compliance. There are many parts to the bill, including the following amendments:

• automatically lapsing the registration of RTOs that have not delivered training and/or assessment for 12 consecutive months
• preventing new RTOs from expanding their scope of registration within the first 24 months of registration
  providing the Minister for Skills and Training with the power to direct ASQA to not accept or process initial applications
• clarifying provisions relating to false and misleading advertising of an RTO’s operations
• increasing maximum penalties
• extending the period for ASQA to conduct internal reviews to 120 days
• allowing ASQA to consider the order in which to process initial applications for registration. 

PRT discussed the regulatory implications of the amended false and misleading provisions and how these will be approached from a compliance perspective. ASQA advised that false and misleading conduct is among the top 3 reasons for tip-offs. ASQA provided examples of advertising that constitute false and misleading behaviour. ASQA committed to provide examples of false and misleading practices in future guidance material to support greater understanding of these amendments.

Regarding lapsing, and circumstances where genuine reasons for non-delivery exist - ASQA understands the need to exercise procedural fairness for providers who can demonstrate that circumstances outside their control have made them unable to deliver for 12 consecutive months. It was noted that ASQA does not have the power to initiate extension to a ‘measurement period’ (non-delivery period) without a request through application by the provider.

Next meeting

Proposed Date: Tuesday 27th August 2024

The ASQA Provider Roundtable held its fourth meeting for 2023 on 28 November.

The Roundtable was chaired by the Deputy Chief Executive Officer (DCEO), Christina Bolger and Executive Director, Policy and Partnerships, Fiona O’Brien.

DCEO update

The DCEO provided and update on the following matters:

• ASQA regulatory activity for Q1 2023-24
• Stakeholder engagement activity
• Integrity measures implementation
• Markey entry changes
• Education and communication activity
• Preparation for changes to the Standards for Registered Training Organisations 2015 (the Standards). 

Standards workshop

The Department of Employment and Workplace Relations (DEWR) provided an update on the draft revised Standards, including high-level themes to emerge from stakeholder focus groups and an evidencing survey of providers. The Roundtable noted that DEWR continues to review stakeholder feedback to inform the final revised Standards and ensure the Standards are fit-for-purpose and effective in meeting the needs of the VET sector.

ASQA facilitated a workshop seeking members’ views on a number of the proposed new Standards to explore how providers might demonstrate they are meeting the requirements of the Standards and to inform guidance for providers in interpreting the Standards. Roundtable members discussed complex areas in the Standards that may require further exploration and noted potential opportunities that might come with the proposed changes.

Guidance material

ASQA led a discussion about how guidance material might best support providers to interpret and implement the revised Standards, expected to be implemented from 1 January 2025. The Roundtable discussed what would be most beneficial for inclusion in guidance material to ensure that providers are supported and guided through the transition to meet their compliance obligations. Members also noted changes ASQA will be making to its regulatory policies and practices, systems and tools to align its approach to the revised Standards.

Next meeting

TBC 2024

The ASQA Provider Roundtable held its third meeting for 2023 on 22 August.

The Roundtable was chaired by the Deputy Chief Executive Officer, Christina Bolger.

Stakeholder Engagement in the new VET Architecture

The Chair of the National VET Regulator Advisory Council provided the Roundtable members with an overview of the Advisory Council and its working relationship with ASQA. The Roundtable discussed the strategic landscape in the VET sector and how ASQA and its stakeholders can work together to ensure quality of VET and continuous improvement in the sector.

ASQA’s Provider and Course Owner Survey

ASQA presented results from its 2022-2023 Provider and Course Owner survey. The survey is conducted annually to seek feedback from training providers and accredited course owners on ASQA’s regulatory approach. Results from this survey indicate that the majority of providers and course owners experience ASQA’s regulatory approach as a best practice and proportionate approach that promotes quality improvement and adds value.

Regulatory Risk Priorities

ASQA presented an overview of their expanded Environmental scan process and outcomes which assisted in establishing their 2023-20-24 Regulatory Risk Priorities. ASQA’s regulatory campaigns will involve a range of activities including resource and guidance to assist the sector and to mitigate identified risks, as well as targeted regulatory activities to ensure that ASQA maintains appropriate regulatory oversight.

Next meeting

28 November 2023

The ASQA Provider Roundtable held its second meeting for 2023 on 18 May.

The Roundtable was chaired by the Deputy Chief Executive Officer, Christina Bolger.

Key updates

Post COVID-19 recovery of Australia’s tourism and international education sectors

ASQA attended the Joint Standing Committee on Foreign Affairs, Defence and Trade Inquiry's public hearing on Tuesday 16 May 2023 and provided information on ASQA’s regulatory approach to international education and education agents.

Jobs and Skills Councils and Jobs and Skills Australia

ASQA is establishing engagement with the Jobs and Skills Councils and Jobs and Skills Australia to identify risks to quality in VET and stewardship of the system to support better planning, design and implementation of the Qualifications Framework.

New Standards for RTOs

The Department of Employment and Workplace Relations provided an update on the draft new Standards. The Roundtable noted that extensive engagement was conducted with the sector on the draft for the new standards and a significant volume of feedback and submissions were received.

Service Charter

ASQA has revised its Service Charter to reflect its commitment to the service standards and regulatory best practice principles. A draft was provided to members for feedback. The Charter is underpinned by best practice regulation and describes what regulated entities and other stakeholders can expect when dealing with ASQA.

Stocktake of reforms

ASQA has undertaken a reform stocktake against the 2020 Rapid Review recommendations to assess progress so far and where continued effort is required. Roundtable members participated in a session to provide their views on how ASQA is progressing with this work.

Annual Review of Provider Roundtable

ASQA reviewed the Roundtable’s Terms of Reference and formulated a survey to be completed by members to review how the forum is functioning and achieving its goals and objectives.

Next meeting

22 August 2023

The ASQA Provider Roundtable (the Roundtable) held its first meeting for 2023 on 28 February.

The Roundtable was chaired by the Deputy Chief Executive Officer, Christina Bolger.

Key updates

New Standards for RTOs

The Chair provided an update on the New Standards, following engagement with the Department, noting that the meeting of the Skills Ministers last week reached an agreement to amend the commencement date to 1 January 2025.

Further information can be found at Communique of meeting of Federal, State and Territory Skills Ministers | Ministers' Media Centre (dewr.gov.au)

This extended time will allow for further consideration to ensure the standards are fit for purpose and provide the intended outcomes.

ASQA’s practices

ASQA is working to mature its reporting and how that relates to the impact on the sector. The reporting is currently being revised to shift from number of regulatory activities to how ASQA is exercising regulatory functions, which will give greater visibility on the function outcomes.

ASQA is placing particular focus on improving the timelines of provider application processes.

Support of the sector in the post-pandemic recovery is also a priority for ASQA.

RTO Standards Implementation

ASQA’s intention is to engage across the sector along with Department of Employment and Workplace Relations (DEWR), using modes such as focus groups, surveys and case studies.

Representatives from DEWR are attending the May meeting to update Roundtable members on the progress of engagement activities.

Information Transparency

Questions included in a paper were circulated to the Roundtable members for consideration and discussion.

The Chair advised that ASQA is anticipating the Minister will release an instrument that will instruct ASQA to publish audit findings on the national register.

ASQA will develop a regulatory practice guide with consultation from stakeholders.

Strategic Review of Online Learning

ASQA has a broad range of actions arising from the review. Members were directed to the published report on ASQA’s website, at Strategic Review of Online Learning in the VET sector published.

The focus of the conversation gave an overview of the actions that ASQA is taking in response to the strategic review and the ESOS return to compliance date of 30 June 2023.

ASQA will take a sample of different cohorts to conduct reviews, which will commence prior to 30 June 2023. This will provide ASQA with an understanding on how providers are transitioning to a return to compliance.

The needs and requirements for students for digital inclusion and sufficient digital literacy to engage properly in online learning was also discussed and will remain a consideration in ASQAs regulatory risks treatment for delivery of online learning.

Other business

The Chair advised that the Skills Ministers have committed to some initiatives for the future VET Workforce. These can be found at Skills and Workforce Ministerial Council Communique – 24 February 2023.

ASQA will provide an update on the progress of continuous improvement to the transition extension process at the May meeting.

Next meeting

9th May 2023

The ASQA Provider Roundtable (the Roundtable) held its fourth meeting for 2022 on 8 November.

The Roundtable was chaired by the Deputy Chief Executive Officer, Christina Bolger.

Key updates

ASQA Annual Report 2021-22

ASQA Annual Report 2021-22

Members noted ASQA’s program of work in 2021-22 with a broad focus on five key areas:

• supporting the shift in regulatory approach toward provider self-assurance and excellence in training outcomes
• enhancing an educative approach and engagement with the sector
• maturing the approach to identify regulatory risk
• applying a mix of education, compliance and enforcement tools and approaches to prevent and manage risk - this is broadening ASQA’s regulatory reach through a range of risk-based regulatory practices to support and encourage continuous improvement and compel compliance
• building workforce capability and culture.

In 2021-22 ASQA continued to systematically implement planned reforms agreed to by Skills Ministers, in response to the Rapid Review of ASQA’s Regulatory Practices and Processes (Rapid Review) 2020. Fundamentally these reforms will shift the sector’s focus from inputs-based compliance to systemic monitoring and evaluation informed by feedback from stakeholders (trainer, assessors, students and industry and employers).

Training Package transition update

Members noted that the Australian Government decided (in consultation with states and territories) that the Training Package Assurance function will not transition to ASQA, as initially intended. The Department of Employment and Workplace Relations (DEWR) will instead establish an independent Training Package Assurance function for a limited time to ensure training products meet national standards. The Round Table members noted that ASQA is working closely with DEWR in relation to the Department’s transitional role in undertaking the training package assurance function.

Engagement with State Training Authorities

ASQA places a high value on engagement with states and territories. Members noted the various ways that this engagement supports a shared understanding of roles and responsibilities and effective interaction and two-way information exchange to understand risks and support quality assurance of VET.

Cost Recovery

The Round Table noted that ASQA will continue to ensure a high level of engagement and consultation in relation to any changes or updates to the cost recovery model. This strategy ensures that the CRIS remains a live document, aligned to best practice cost recovery principles.

The Round Table also received an update on Fee relief for ESOS providers who are only registered to deliver ELICOS courses (ELICOS-only providers) which will cease on 31 December 2022. The Annual Registration Charge was subject to the fee waiver and is not payable for 2022-23. All other applicable fees and charges will be resumed from 1 January 2023.

Approach to online requirements of National Code and ELICOS standards

On 19 October 2022, ASQA published a statement to advise providers delivering VET and ELICOS under the ESOS Framework that providers are expected to return to compliance with the National Code by 30 June 2023, where it is safe and practical to do so.

ASQA will work with the Department of Education to ensure consideration of the limits for online delivery reflect providers’ investment and the maturing of their approach and systems for multi-modal delivery during the pandemic, to enable providers who are doing this well to continue.

ASQA has proposed a Round Table working group to address risk and identify support required for providers’ return to compliance.

Opportunities for collaboration 2022-23

The Provider Round Table received an overview of planning for ASQA’s work in partnership with others in the coming year to prepare for implementation of new Standards.

The draft revised Standards for RTOs have been released for consultation.

Key information on the draft Standards

• DEWR is leading the development of the new Standards
• the new Standards will support ASQA in delivering on recommendations of the Rapid Review
• the new Standards will support self-assurance and are outcomes focused
• it is anticipated new Standards will come into effect in mid-2024

ASQA will be working through the details of our implementation planning with provider peak bodies, to ensure provider needs are considered and the development of our regulatory tools and processes to support the new Standards are informed by providers.

All members of the RoundTable have a part to play in supporting the shift in focus from inputs and compliance controls to systemic focus on outcomes intended by the standards and the actions of providers to monitor evaluate and continuously improve as well as manage risks to the achievement of outcomes described in the standards.

Risk Priorities

Environmental scan

The Roundtable noted that during October 2022 ASQA conducted interviews with 7 ASQA regulatory teams, every state and territory government, the other VET regulators, Student Ombudsman, ITECA, TDA, Adult Learning Australia, NEAS, English Australia, and ERTOA.  Currently interviews are being finalised, and ASQA is compiling and analysing the results to identify themes and review regulatory priorities. This process also includes linking regulatory data to verify ASQA’s understanding of the underlying compliance risks and trends.  ASQA aims to make any necessary adjustments to refresh information relating to regulatory risk priorities early in the new year.

International delivery

Members noted the work done to date and agreed to convene a workshop to contribute further to ASQA’s Regulatory Risk Priority for 2022-23 in relation to VET delivery to international students. This is an area of focus for ASQA as the nature and extent of VET delivered to international students, and its risk profile, is changing as the government and sector respond to initiatives to expand VET delivery to international students to support skilled migration, Australia’s economic recovery and improve the resilience of the international education sector.

Roundtable members will be contacted for further engagement in a workshop to identify and proactively treat risk in the International VET space.

Several other issues were raised by members including:

• interest in further engagement in return to compliance, especially for ELICOS providers
• the persistent shortages in the availability of trainers and assessors
• the need for a single narrative about changes to the VET sector – qualification reform, new Industry Clusters, etc
• amplifying messages to the sector around academic cheating and integrity
• improving the process for training package transitions.

These ideas will be further explored with the Roundtable to identify those that can be further understood or addressed through collaboration between ASQA, within its role as the National VET regulator and peak organisations.

Next meeting

The 2023 meetings of the Provider Roundtable will be finalised out of session.

The ASQA Provider Roundtable held its third meeting for 2022 on 3 August.

The Roundtable noted that with the commencement of ASQA’s Advisory Council, there will be adjustments to chairing arrangements for the Roundtable. ASQA also noted the importance of communicating the role and purpose of its different engagement forums.

ASQA Strategic Objectives and Risk Priorities

The Roundtable noted ASQA has refined and updated its Strategic from six to five Strategic Deliverables as part of its Corporate Plan 2022-23. The plan has been strengthened by clearly setting out the key activities to be achieved under each deliverable, and the revised performance measures support ASQA to more effectively monitor its performance progressively throughout the year, including by seeking feedback on its performance from stakeholders.

ASQA thanked the Members for their engagement in the development of the Corporate Plan 2022-23 and advised that it will soon be publicly released.

The Roundtable also discussed ASQA’s regulatory risk priorities, noting that ASQA will shortly publish refreshed priorities for 2022-23.

Opportunities for collaboration 2022-23

Provider self-assurance of Standards for RTOs (Standards)

The Roundtable noted that the working model for provider self-assurance of Standards co-designed with the sector would be published shortly.

Members also noted the planned next steps by ASQA would include:

• Refining regulatory tools and approaches understanding self-assurance
• Piloting a new approach to the Annual Declaration of Compliance
• Working with providers to promote self-assurance practices
• Identifying capability, tools and resources required

The Roundtable noted the inter-connection between the upcoming revision of the Standards and self-assurance, and that when further information from the Department of Employment and Workplace Relations became available on the new Standards, it would be an important opportunity to critically examine any intended consequences or impacts.

Members agreed that there is an appetite for the regulated community and peak body groups to test and pilot the revised Standards with ASQA.

Priorities and opportunities for collaboration raised by Members included:

• engagement on reviewing current regulatory flexibility arrangements in place due to pandemic impacts and understanding the changes to business operations that have occurred during the pandemic period
• COVID safety measures for learners and trainers
• the impact and stress on trainers and assessors post pandemic and persistent shortages in the availability of trainers and assessors
• engagement of disadvantaged and vulnerable students, especially for community-based providers
• articulating and communicating the value for providers in undertaking the new student experience survey initiative
• improving the process for training package transitions

These ideas will be further explored with the Roundtable to identify those that can be further understood or addressed through collaboration between ASQA, within its role as the national VET regulator, and peak organisations.

Cost recovery

The Roundtable noted ASQA has now introduced new fees and charges from 1 July 2022, with fee relief to continue for ELICOS providers until 31 December 2022. Members acknowledged ASQA’s consultation process leading up to 1 July 2022 had been effective and helped to prepare the sector  for the resumption of cost recovery.

ASQA thanked the Members for their participation in working groups to support the development and implementation of the new fees and charges.

Assurance activities update

The Roundtable noted that an internal audit of ASQA’s risk management framework has been undertaken.  The audit found ASQA has a comprehensive framework and approach to maturing identification and management of risk.

Next meeting

The next meeting of the Provider Roundtable will be held on 8 November 2022.

The ASQA Provider Roundtable held its second meeting for 2022 on 26 May.

Training Package Assurance Function

The Roundtable noted that, as announced in March 2022, ASQA is taking on a new, independent Training Package Assurance Function (TPA Function). In this new role, which will commence from 1 January 2023, ASQA will assess the compliance of training products against standards and policies set by Skills Ministers and build the capacity of Industry Clusters by providing guidance and support with training product development.

Members noted that ASQA has formed a project team and is working closely with the Department of Education, Skills and Employment (DESE) to develop and implement the future-state model for the TPA Function.

ASQA encouraged members to share any concerns or suggestions about the establishment and governance of the TPA Function, for consideration by ASQA and DESE.

ASQA regulatory and corporate performance

Evaluation Project

The Roundtable noted that ASQA has initiated a four-year project to evaluate its work and produce findings to support continuous improvement. Members noted that an Evaluation Framework, currently being drafted, will guide the planning, conduct and use of evaluation at ASQA.

Members were advised that the initial evaluation projects will focus on reforms that ASQA implemented from April 2021 to respond to issues identified in the Rapid Review, including: a new performance assessment methodology; a new compliance management process; the introduction of agreements to rectify; and changes to ASQA’s internal review process.

Performance Framework and Corporate Plan

The Roundtable discussed ASQA’s 2021–22 Corporate Plan and was asked to provide feedback on the effectiveness of the current deliverables and associated performance measures. This feedback will help ASQA develop its 2022–23 Corporate Plan.

Members will discuss engagement priorities for the next financial year at the Roundtable quarterly meeting in August 2022.

Performance against the Standards for VET Regulators

Members noted the results of a review by Pitt Group of ASQA’s performance against the Standards for VET Regulators 2015, in which ASQA was regarded as compliant with 42 Standards out of a total of 44 Standards assessed.

Cost recovery

The Roundtable noted ASQA’s proposed transition arrangements for the re-introduction of fees and charges, which will commence with the issuance of Annual Registration Charge invoices in July 2022.

Members also noted that ASQA will participate in the forthcoming Best Practice Cost Recovery Project led by the Department of Prime Minister and Cabinet.

Member updates

Priorities and challenges raised by Members included:

• the need for sufficient notice before the removal of temporary arrangements currently in place for CRICOS-registered providers
• the impact of processing times for international student visas
• processing by ASQA of registration-related applications and changes
• engagement of disadvantaged and vulnerable students, many of whom have been reluctant to commence training since the onset of the Coronavirus pandemic
• persistent shortages in the availability of trainers and assessors, particularly trainers with aged care and foundation skills specialities
• review of the TAE Training Package
• the implications of changes to the framework for training package development and endorsement, including for industry engagement and students (refer also TPA Function listed above).

Next meeting

The next meeting of the Provider Roundtable will be held on 3 August 2022.

The ASQA Provider Roundtable held its first meeting for 2022 on 9 February.

Priorities and planned engagement

The Roundtable, at its 9 February 2022 meeting, heard the Australian Skills Quality Authority’s (ASQA) priorities for the remainder of the 2021-22 financial year, which include:

• continue to progress the co-design of a model of self-assurance with and for the VET sector
• develop an evaluation framework and evaluate the first phase of ASQA’s reforms
• conduct Customer Experience (CX) research as part of ASQA’s four-year Digital Roadmap, seeking stakeholder views on key connection points between ASQA and providers and ways in which interactions might be improved to support more efficient and effective regulation and reduce regulatory burden for providers
• continue to implement (in consultation with State and Territory Governments) the actions and recommendations of the Vocational Education and Training Delivered to Secondary School Students (VETDSSS) study
• implement a model of full cost recovery from 1 July 2022. 

Members agreed the priorities are broadly aligned to the needs of the sector, and also suggested a number of particular focus areas within these priorities that ASQA could consider in the coming months, including, for example, intersections between a self-assurance model and fit-for-purpose approaches to regulating alternative modes of training delivery, and how the model self-assurance could best be used to support dual-sector providers in meeting their regulatory obligations.

Members noted a schedule of planned engagements is being developed to guide expectations for ASQA’s engagement with the Roundtable and the sector more broadly, to be made available on ASQA’s website once finalised.  

COVID-19 response – quality and safety

The Roundtable discussed the key risks and challenges continuing or forecast to be experienced by the sector as a result of the ongoing pandemic, and particularly with the return of international students.

Members advised ASQA that some of the key challenges include (but are not limited to):

• compliance with the various Public Health Orders and rules in place both across and within jurisdictions
• challenges associated with requirements of government agencies at all levels of government, particularly for dual-sector providers
• a backlog of work placements, particularly in relation to those seeking placement in the aged and disability care sectors
• availability of trainers and assessors, particularly in critical shortage areas such as aged care
• the overall nature of training package reforms and administrative reporting requirements.

ASQA is focused on continuing to partner with the sector to understand risks to quality outcomes and be responsive to these risks, including ensuring education and guidance is current, engaging with the Department of Education, Skills and Employment (DESE) on policy matters with regulatory implications, and taking regulatory action if and when required.

Cost recovery

The Roundtable discussed the recent cost recovery working group meetings with members, the outputs of which informed the development of the draft Cost Recovery Implementation Statement. Members acknowledged that ASQA has engaged with the sector in an open and transparent way on the transition to full cost recovery – listening to and actioning issues and helping to support a shift in understanding for providers about why the change is occurring and encouraging providers to continue to engage constructively with ASQA.

Members discussed the importance of ensuring that providers have a clear understanding of how costs will be calculated, what ASQA is doing to ensure efficiencies, and their own accountabilities for providing ASQA with accurate information to avoid additional fees and charges.

Priorities of joint interest

The Roundtable discussed English Australia’s Future of English Language Intensive Courses for Overseas Students (ELICOS) interim report including in relation to shared risk and the valuable work undertaken to date to determine the extent of potential non-compliance in the ELICOS sector.

Members discussed the opportunity the paper provides to identify risk and instigate conversations about the risks and opportunities associated with different delivery methods for English Language Intensive Courses for Overseas Students (ELICOS) (i.e. online, virtual, face-to-face, simulator, robotics etc) and how to influence the next steps for policy and fit-for-purpose regulation. Members also noted the potential benefits of visibility of non-compliance so that ASQA can partner with the sector to address any areas of non-compliance in the delivery of ELICOS and support the return to compliance of providers in the most effective and proportionate manner.

Next meeting

The next meeting of the Provider Roundtable will be held on 4 May 2022.

The ASQA Provider Roundtable held its third meeting for 2021 on 6 July.

ASQA update

Roundtable Members noted that:

• 1 July 2021 marked 10 years since the establishment of ASQA. The Hon. Stuart Robert MP, Minister for Employment, Workforce, Skills, Small and Family Business, and the Hon. Steven Joyce, former New Zealand Minister for Tertiary Education, Skills and Employment participated in an event that recognised the important progress ASQA is making to drive co-operative relationships between ASQA, providers and other stakeholders, to be more transparent in its approach to regulation, as well as our work to promote and facilitate a culture of effective self-assurance as an integral part of a provider’s routine operations.
• ASQA’s 2021–22 Corporate Plan, to be published soon, reflects feedback from the Roundtable and other stakeholders on the Performance Framework.
• ASQA has welcomed and will carefully consider the Auditor-General’s recommendations and opportunities to improve, as outlined in the recently tabled ANAO report on ASQA’s Effectiveness of Planning and Implementation of Reform.
• ASQA is making progress towards procuring a dedicated learning and engagement platform for providers.

Update on ASQA cost recovery

Roundtable Members noted the government’s decision to transition to full cost recovery from 1 January 2022 and ASQA’s work in this area:

• ASQA is currently working on a transitional phase to implement the current cost recovery implementation statement (CRIS) and commence transition to full cost recovery through modelling, engagement and consultation with the sector from 1 January 2022.
• Consultation with the sector will enable ASQA to develop a CRIS to implement a new model for cost recovery from 1 July 2022, consistent with ASQA’s regulatory approach and intent.
• Over forward years, this can be further developed to align cost recovery with a more differentiated model of provider performance in line with new outcomes-based standards and demonstrated levels of provider self-assurance.

Regulatory reforms

Review of Application processes

ASQA will hold a consultation workshop in late August with Roundtable Members on the features of a possible future model for provider applications.

Financial Viability Risk Assessment Requirements

Roundtable Members noted that the existing Financial Viability Risk Assessment Requirements (FVRARs) will be extended for up to 18 months. ASQA will conduct a review to identify if amendments are required to the FVRARs, the way they are applied, or to the FVRA tool. Roundtable Members and other key stakeholders will be consulted in the review, which will help ensure the FVRARs align with ASQA’s enhanced regulatory approach, including the focus on self-assurance.

Current and emerging risks: member engagement

ASQA communicated how it is collaborating to identify regulatory risks and designing regulatory approaches and strategies that are well informed and take account of the current and emerging environment. This means sharing information with stakeholders to better understand risk, and raising awareness and providing clear feedback and support for providers to self-assure and continuously improve.

Engaging strategically with stakeholders about risk is central to ASQA’s enhanced Regulatory Risk Framework and Operating Model, supporting ongoing environmental scanning and the continuous improvement of regulatory outcomes.

Roundtable Members discussed risks, their characterisation and associated treatments identified by ASQA this quarter. Treatment actions for these risks are the responsibility of several agencies and jurisdictions across the VET sector.

ASQA will seek regular input from the Provider Roundtable as part of its ongoing environmental scanning for provider and systemic risk in the sector.

Strategic review and evaluation

VET delivered to secondary school students (VETDSSS) scoping study

The Roundtable discussed ASQA’s progress on this scoping study, which drew on regulatory data and intelligence, stakeholder insights and feedback, NCVER participation data, reviews and reports relating to VETDSSS, and information about state and territory delivery models, to identify risks associated with VETDSSS.

Roundtable Members noted that the VETDSSS final report is expected to be published shortly. The report will propose actions and a recommendation to work with stakeholders across the skills and education portfolios to support providers to self-assure and continuously improve the quality of VETDSSS.

Strategic review of online learning in the VET sector

In December 2020, ASQA launched a strategic review in response to the substantial shift to online learning in Australia’s VET sector and international education sectors due to the
COVID-19 pandemic. Review activities have included interactive webinars, a provider survey, and focus groups with VET and English language students.

Roundtable Members noted that ASQA’s next steps in this review are to critically analyse the information it has gathered through external consultations, review regulatory and participation data, and conduct internal and external consultation.

Self-assurance research partnership

Roundtable Members discussed ASQA’s plan to establish a long-term, translational research partnership to support the co-design, with the sector, of a shared model of self-assurance, as well as establishing a community of practice, and the progressive development of information and resources to support and measure provider capability to self-assure.

Member updates

Members discussed current activity including the Australian ELICOS market quarterly review, a review by the Department of Home Affairs of the Adult Migrant Education Program, and a Community Colleges Australia survey of online learning delivery by adult and community education providers.

Next meeting

In recognition of the value of Roundtable Member engagement, Members agreed to meet formally at least four times a year, with the next meeting to be held in September 2021.

The ASQA Provider Roundtable held an Extraordinary Meeting, its second meeting for 2021, on 10 June.

Member feedback on ASQA’s implementation of regulatory reforms and the ASQA Performance Framework

As discussed at the March 2021 meeting, ASQA is seeking ongoing feedback from providers and sector stakeholders about their experience of our new regulatory approaches. In expressing support for this objective, Roundtable members raised suggestions for improvement, requesting that ASQA respond with speed and transparency to future feedback from Roundtable members and providers.

ASQA reiterated its intention to consult Roundtable Members and other stakeholders on the design of a framework for the post-implementation evaluation of its regulatory reforms.

ASQA is redeveloping its overall Performance Framework to reflect its newly articulated purpose, strategic deliverables and planning for the next four years. The Performance Framework, featured in ASQA’s annual Corporate Plan, guides the agency’s performance measurement, assessment and reporting against its purpose.

Roundtable Members discussed the current Performance Framework and an associated set of survey questions intended for completion by providers and course owners. Members agreed to be part of broader consultation on this project, along with state and territory funding agencies, state-based VET regulators, and other sector stakeholders.

ASQA Stakeholder Engagement Strategy consultation

As raised at the March 2021 meeting, ASQA is developing a Stakeholder Engagement Strategy that will articulate the agency’s principles and priorities for strategically engaging with its stakeholders over the next four years.

Roundtable Members provided feedback on ASQA’s draft plans and noted the intention to consult further with a range of stakeholders on the proposed strategy, implementation plans, and performance measures.

Next meeting

The next meeting of the Provider Roundtable will be held on 6 July 2021.

The ASQA Provider Roundtable held its first meeting for 2021 on 9 March.

ASQA update

The Provider Roundtable discussed the following updates:

Reform of organisational governance and structure

Since the Roundtable last met in November 2020, ASQA has continued to enhance its governance arrangements and organisational structure to deliver on the Ministerial Statement of Expectations. This includes developing four-year strategic deliverables in support of ASQA’s strategic objective, the publication of a Risk Management Policy Statement, and the establishment of internal governance committees to provide strategic oversight of ASQA’s work program.

Changes coming into effect on 6 April 2021

On 6 April 2021, ASQA will be undergoing a significant restructuring of its operational teams – with the Regulatory Operations teams splitting into separate Quality Assessment and Compliance teams. The ASQA audit function will become a performance assessment function that will employ a more extensive range of regulatory strategies to assess performance. A separate compliance function will be established to determine the appropriate response to any areas of non-compliance.

Australian National Audit Office (ANOA) performance audit

The ANAO commenced a performance audit of ASQA in January 2021. ASQA welcomes this independent assessment, and is working closely with the ANAO to support the performance assessment (audit). The final report of the performance assessment is scheduled to be tabled in the winter sittings of Parliament.

ASQA’s regulatory reforms

Members were briefed on the key components of ASQA’s revised regulatory approach commencing on 6 April 2021. Reforms include changes to the assessment methodology, the introduction of new measures in responding to non-compliance (agreements to rectify), and the provision of earlier opportunities to resolve disputes through the internal review of decisions. To support and communicate the change to its operations, ASQA has developed an integrated suite of documents that detail its regulatory approach, namely:

• Regulatory Risk Framework
• Regulatory Operating Model
• Approach to assessing performance
• Compliance Policy
• Internal Review Policy

The Roundtable discussed ASQA’s revised regulatory approach and members were invited to provide further feedback to ASQA.

ASQA also briefed the Roundtable on its commitment to undertake a post-implementation evaluation of the regulatory reforms. Members welcomed the opportunity for further involvement in the development of the evaluation framework. ASQA also advised that it welcomes real-time feedback from members as the reforms are implemented over the coming months.

Education and Guidance program

Feedback provided by Roundtable members in late 2020 and early 2021 has been used to assist in the development of ASQA’s Education and Guidance program of work for 2021. The program focuses on supporting sector-wide compliance and quality by continuing work focused on building an understanding of provider self-assurance, continuous improvement and excellence through more comprehensive learning opportunities.

Members discussed the planned Education and Guidance program of work for 2021, which will include two streams of external guidance information relating to essential compliance and quality information to support providers. The proposed development over a forward program of an online platform that will further enhance provider access to these products was also discussed, and members noted that further consultation would be undertaken on this project.

Strategic Projects

Members were updated on the progress ASQA is making on two pieces of work arising from its Regulatory Strategy 2020–2022.

ASQA’s VET delivered to secondary school students (VETDSSS) scoping study is nearing completion, with the findings due to be confirmed by the end of March 2021.

ASQA’s strategic review of online learning in the VET sector was launched in December 2020, and has included a webinar discussion led by a panel comprising ASQA and industry representatives, which focused on building e-learning capability and the new TAE digital skill set. A follow-up webinar discussion was also held to further explore questions and issues raised as part of the first webinar discussion.

A survey (which closes on 19 March 2021) has been sent to all regulated providers to gain their insights into the sector’s use, experience and perceptions of online learning, and ASQA encourages providers to engage with the survey and contribute their insights to the strategic review, which is scheduled for completion in August 2021.

ASQA Stakeholder Engagement Strategy – Provider Roundtable Terms of Reference

ASQA is developing a comprehensive Stakeholder Engagement Strategy to organise and articulate its priorities for engaging stakeholders over the next four years. The strategy will give effect to ASQA’s strategic deliverable: As the national regulator, we engage and partner with stakeholders constructively and with mutual respect. Further consultation will occur with Roundtable members to develop the strategy.

The Roundtable, which was established in 2012, is recognised as ASQA’s primary consultative forum with the VET and English language sectors through the peak provider associations. Members discussed the results of a recent survey undertaken to review the Roundtable and develop formal Terms of Reference.

ASQA thanked members for their feedback in developing the proposed Terms of Reference, which will formally articulate the Provider Roundtable’s purpose, background, objectives, membership and meeting administration.

Members endorsed the proposed Terms of Reference, and agreed to their publication on the ASQA website.

Members also agreed to the publication of a Communiqué in the week following each meeting, as a high-level record of the agenda items discussed and actions arising.

Member updates

Members provided operational and strategic updates, including:

• co-ordination of reform activities across Australian Government agencies and state and territory governments
• engagement with the work of the National Skills Commission on skills forecasting and benchmarking of provider performance
• consideration of the implications for the VET sector of the recommendations of the report of the Royal Commission into Aged Care Quality and Safety
• the Inquiry by the Standing Committee on Employment, Education and Training into adult literacy, numeracy and problem-solving skills in Australia
• the impact of the declining numbers of overseas students on providers of English Language Intensive Courses for Overseas Students as a result of the ongoing closure of Australia’s international borders.

Next meeting

The next meeting of the Provider Roundtable will be held on 6 July 2021.