Registered Training Organisations (RTOs) should now examine their conduct and business practices in order to remain competitive in a new regulatory environment.
The Government has recently ‘cracked down’ on training providers and private vocational colleges, instituting a new penalty regime and an industry wide funding freeze. This essentially means that RTOs’ 2016 revenue will be ‘capped’ at the level of funding attained in 2015.
Furthermore, a significant number of RTOs have now had their registrations cancelled, suspended or renewals rejected by the federal regulator, the Australian Skills Quality Authority (ASQA).
Additionally, the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) have commenced legal proceedings against several training providers for false, misleading and unconscionable conduct.
While such measures could potentially see a number of multi-million dollar colleges collapse, they are made in an effort to lift the standards of the sector and renew student, employer and tax-payer confidence in the qualifications delivered by the industry.
RTOs must be aware of their new obligations and the regulatory requirements under the Standards for Registered Training Organisations 2015, in addition to recent reforms to the VET FEE-HELP Scheme. Moreover, full compliance is required as a condition of registration.
Irish Bentley Lawyers have already advised on a number of RTO matters and registration issues and have a vast experience with all facets of the operation of Registered Training Organisations. We are able to assist training providers in navigating the reforms and regulatory changes and addressing audits, license suspensions and cancellations.
Please note that the above does not constitute legal advice and Irish Bentley Lawyers make no representations or warranties as to the accuracy of any of the information contained herein. If you have a legal issue, then please do not hesitate to contact the team at Irish Bentley Lawyers – there is no substitute for proper legal advice based on your individual and unique circumstances.