Understanding the Distinctions Between University Training, Australian Skills Quality Training, and Professional Development Training

In Australia, education and training are critical components that support improvements in our transport system including the reduction in death and serious injury. Understanding the differences between University training, Australian Skills Quality Authority training, and Continued Professional Development training is important to ensure the right training is provided for the right person. Each category has unique requirements and frameworks ensuring quality and relevance in their respective fields.

University Training

University training in Australia provides higher education qualifications, such as bachelor’s degrees, master’s degrees, and doctorates. Universities operate under a distinct regulatory framework overseen by the Tertiary Education Quality and Standards Agency (TEQSA).

Organisational Requirements for University Training:

1. University Accreditation: Institutions must be accredited as universities by TEQSA. This involves meeting the Higher Education Standards Framework (Threshold Standards) 2021, which encompasses governance, quality assurance, and educational outcomes.

2. Academic Governance: Universities must have academic governance structures to oversee course delivery, academic integrity, and research quality.

3. Qualified Faculty: Academic staff must hold relevant qualifications and experience, ensuring high-quality education and research supervision.

4. Infrastructure and Resources: Universities are required to provide adequate infrastructure, learning resources, and student support services to facilitate effective learning and research environments.

Australian Skills Quality Authority (ASQA) Training

ASQA training, underpinned by the standards set by the Australian Skills Quality Authority, is designed to equip individuals with vocational skills and competencies directly aligned with industry needs. To deliver ASQA-accredited training, an organisation must be registered as a Registered Training Organisation (RTO).

Organisational Requirements for ASQA Training:

1. RTO Registration: Organisations must apply for and maintain registration as an RTO. This process involves scrutiny to ensure compliance with the VET Quality Framework, which includes the Standards for RTOs 2015.

?2. Compliance and Auditing: RTOs are subject to ongoing compliance and regular audits by ASQA to ensure they meet national standards. This includes having qualified trainers and assessors, appropriate training resources, and robust administrative and record-keeping systems.

3. Training Packages: The courses delivered must be based on nationally endorsed training packages or accredited courses, ensuring consistency and relevance across the country.

Continued Professional Development Training

Continued professional development (CPD) training in Australia addresses the specific skill needs of individuals and organisations that are not extensive enough to require a university degree. This type of training is highly flexible and tailored to meet the particular requirements of businesses and professionals, ensuring that learning is both practical and immediately applicable. It is not bound by the ASQA or TEQSA so organisations delivering this training do not need to be an RTO or a university.

Organisational Requirements for Continued Professional Development Training:

1. Endorsement and Recognition: Organisations offering CPD must demonstrate to the relevant endorsing authority that they possess the requisite expertise, knowledge, and systems to deliver effective training. This often involves recognition from states, territories, industry bodies or professional associations, providing credibility and assurance of quality.

2. Qualified Instructors: Trainers are typically experienced practitioners who bring real-world expertise to the learning environment. Their practical experience ensures that the training is relevant and grounded in current industry practices.

3. Training Design and Delivery: CPD programs are designed with clear objectives and tailored content to address specific organisational needs.

4. Practical and Technical Focus: The training is usually highly technical, focusing on practical skills rather than theoretical concepts. This approach ensures that learners can apply what they have learned directly to their work, enhancing their performance and productivity.

5. Integration with Work: CPD training can include real work as part of continued learning, allowing employees to learn and apply new skills concurrently. This integration ensures that the training is relevant and immediately beneficial to both the individual and the organisation.

CPD training is a crucial component of the Australian education landscape, providing targeted, practical, and flexible learning opportunities that directly address the immediate needs of organisations and professionals. This training format ensures that individuals can enhance their skills and knowledge in a way that is directly applicable to their roles, contributing to overall organisational efficiency and effectiveness.

We need all three to build capability and capacity.

The delivery of Australian Skills Quality training, University training, and CPD training each requires adherence to specific regulatory frameworks and organisational prerequisites. ASQA training demands RTO registration and compliance with national standards. University training necessitates accreditation and adherence to the Higher Education Standards Framework. CPD training requires proving competency and effective systems to endorsing authorities but is not bound by ASQA or TEQSA. Each training category plays a vital role in the Australian education landscape, contributing to workforce development and personal growth.