Enforcement of trade apprenticeships for Registered Training Organisations (RTOs)

The South Australian Skills Commission (the Commission) has identified a growing reliance on institution-based trade training that does not result in a recognised trade certificate issued by the Commission for learners. Beyond the potential breaches of Section 45A of the South Australian Skills Act 2008 (the Act), this practice poses unacceptable risks to safety, quality, and the integrity of declared trades across South Australia.

Enforcement of the Act will ensure individuals enter the workforce from the commencement of their training through the proven ‘earn and learn’ apprenticeship pathway.

SA Skills Act

This depends on the learner’s desired pathway. If an individual has already completed the training, they may be eligible to apply to the Commission for a skills assessment under the Occupational Recognition Service. Where students meet the required standards, the Commission will issue an Occupational Certificate, which is recognised by industry.

If their training is still ongoing:

• international students can finish their training and then apply for their skills to be assessed by the Commission to potentially secure an Occupational Certificate. If all criteria can be met, this may improve their employability, pending visa conditions.
• domestic learners are encouraged to transition to a formal apprenticeship program if their desired outcome is to acquire a trade certificate. Learners can talk to their RTO about entering into a training contract and whether there are subsidies to reduce the cost of the course.