Key Takeaways:
- Training package updates can affect qualifications, units, packaging rules and assessment requirements, so RTOs should review changes carefully before updating delivery.
- Changes to the RII training package can have broad implications across mining, resources, drilling, emergency response and high-risk operational training.
- Updates to the AUR training package increasingly reflect changing automotive technologies, workplace practices and industry skill requirements.
- RTOs delivering from the AUM training package should monitor revised qualifications and units to keep training and assessment materials aligned with current requirements.
- Monitoring AUSMASA projects and published training package updates helps RTOs identify affected scope, resources and transition work early rather than reacting after changes are released.
A range of important training package updates are now underway across the AUM, AUR, and RII training packages, with projects led by the Mining and Automotive Skills Alliance (AUSMASA). These updates aim to modernise content, fill training gaps, and support the integration of emerging technologies into nationally recognised qualifications.
For RTOs, these changes offer an opportunity to improve the quality of their delivery, but also present a risk if transitions are delayed. Below, we’ve outlined the major projects grouped by training package to help you identify which changes will impact your scope and how to plan effectively.
Projects for the RII Training Package
Emergency Response Qualifications Review
AUSMASA, in collaboration with BuildSkills Australia, is leading an overhaul of emergency response training in the RII training package. This project was initiated to align qualifications with WHS legislation and ensure training reflects the current expectations of resource sector employers.
The review includes updates to both qualifications and skill sets, with a strong focus on practical emergency roles in underground and surface mining. Industry feedback has highlighted the need for clearer assessment benchmarks, more relevant performance tasks, and updated terminology across units of competency.
Affected Training Products:
| Qualifications: | Changes: |
|---|---|
| RII20120 Certificate II in Resources and Infrastructure Work Preparation | Updated from release 3 to 4 |
| RII20320 Certificate II in Underground Coal Mining | Updated from release 2 to 3 |
| RII20520 Certificate II in Resource Processing | Updated from release 2 to 3 |
| RII30719 Certificate III in Emergency Response and Rescue | Superseded by RII30726 Certificate III in Emergency Response and Rescue |
| RII40120 Certificate IV in Surface Extraction Operations | Updated from release 2 to 3 |
| RII40426 Certificate IV in Underground Coal Operations | Updated from release 1 to 2 |
| RII40520 Certificate IV in Resource Processing | Updated from release 3 to 4 |
| RII41319 Certificate IV in Emergency Response Coordination | Superseded by RII41326 Certificate IV in Emergency Response Coordination |
| Skill Sets: | Changes: |
|---|---|
| RIISS00033 Underground Coal Mine Safety Skill Set | Superseded by RIISS00133 Underground Mine Safety Skill Set |
| RIISS00034 Surface Coal Mine Safety Skill Set | Superseded by RIISS00134 Surface Mine Safety Skill Set |
| RIISS00029 Leading Hand – Coal Mining Skill Set | Updated from release 4 to 5 |
| RIISS00051 Supervision of Diverse Work Teams Skill Set | Updated from release 2 to 3 |
| Units of Competency: | Changes: |
|---|---|
| RIIERR201E Conduct fire team operations | Superseded by RIIERR201 Conduct fire team operations |
| RIIERR305E Control underground fires | Superseded by RIIERR305 Control underground fires |
| RIIERR307E Extricate casualties from underground incidents | Superseded by RIIERR307 Extricate casualties from underground incidents |
| RIIERR308E Extricate and transport people involved in incidents | Superseded by RIIERR308 Extricate and transport people involved in incidents |
| RIIRIS301E Apply risk management processes | Superseded by RIIRIS301 Apply risk management processes |
| RIIERR312 Respond to incidents involving energy storage systems | Newly added |
| RIIERR302E Respond to local emergencies and incidents | Updated from release 1 to 2 |
| RIIERR404D Apply and monitor underground Metalliferous mine emergency preparedness and response systems | Updated from release 4 to 5 |
| RIIERR601E Establish and maintain mine emergency preparedness and response systems | Updated from release 1 to 2 |
| RIIERR301E Respond to work site incidents | Updated from release 1 to 2 |
Project Timeline:
Initial planning occurred in 2023, and stakeholder consultations were conducted mid-2025. Draft components were released in Q3 2025, and endorsement took place in early 2026. The project concluded in September 2026, with the publication of updated training products on the National Register.
Review of RII Units of Competency
This project involves a technical review of existing units across the RII training package and is aimed at resolving issues such as duplication, outdated terminology, and overly complex assessment conditions. AUSMASA, with support from BuildSkills Australia, is simplifying and refining these units to ensure they are easier to deliver and assess while remaining industry-relevant.
Updates will improve the consistency of performance criteria, provide clearer guidance for RTOs, and eliminate overlap between units used in mining and civil construction qualifications.
Affected Training Products:
| Units of Competency: | Change: |
|---|---|
| RIIBEF201E Plan and organise work | Superseded by RIIBEF201 Plan and organise work |
| RIIMPO319E Conduct backhoe/loader operations | Superseded by RIIMPO319 Conduct civil construction backhoe/loader operations |
| RIIMPO337E Conduct articulated haul truck operations | Superseded by RIIMPO337 Conduct articulated haul truck operations |
| RIIMPO338E Conduct rigid haul truck operations | Superseded by RIIMPO338 Conduct rigid haul truck operations |
| RIIWHS202E Enter and work in confined spaces | Superseded by RIIWHS202 Enter and work in confined spaces |
| RIIWHS204E Work safely at heights | Superseded by RIIWHS204 Work safely at heights |
Project Timeline:
This project concluded in May 2026, with updated training products uploaded on training.gov.au in September 2026.
Development of Training Products for Critical Control Management
This project will create new training materials within the RII training package focused on statutory mine site supervision roles. The goal is to improve training around high-risk control systems, including risk management frameworks, hazard identification, and WHS responsibilities.
Given the regulatory and safety-critical nature of this content, AUSMASA and BuildSkills Australia are working together to ensure the new units meet both industry and compliance expectations. Existing units will also be reviewed and realigned to support a clear, progressive learning pathway for supervisory roles.
Affected Training Products:
| Qualifications: |
|---|
| RII40120 Certificate IV in Surface Extraction Operations |
| RII50120 Diploma of Surface Operations Management |
| RII50920 Diploma of Underground Coal Mining Management |
| RII60220 Advanced Diploma of Extractive Industries Management |
| RII60320 Advanced Diploma of Underground Coal Mining Management |
| RII60415 Advanced Diploma of Drilling Management |
| RII60720 Advanced Diploma of Surface Coal Mining Management |
Project Timeline:
Launched in April 2025, this is a long-term project scheduled for completion by March 2027, with industry consultation taking place throughout.
Superseded Units Review
This package-wide review is identifying and replacing superseded units that appear in qualifications across the RII training package. The goal is to ensure training products remain compliant with current national frameworks and continue to meet evolving job requirements in the mining and resources sector.
Changes may include minor content updates, updated packaging rules, and removal of outdated units from elective streams or specialisation groups.
Affected Training Products:
| Qualification: | Changes: |
|---|---|
| RII32020 Certificate III in Drilling Oil & Gas (Onshore) | Superseded by RII32026 Certificate III in Drilling Oil & Gas (Onshore) |
| RII32220 Certificate III in Well Servicing Operations | Superseded by RII32226 Certificate III in Well Servicing Operations |
| RII40220 Certificate IV in Surface Coal Mining (Open Cut Examiner) | Superseded by RII40226 Certificate IV in Surface Coal Mining (Open Cut Examiner) |
| RII40420 Certificate IV in Underground Coal Operations | Superseded by RII40426 Certificate IV in Underground Coal Operations |
| RII41120 Certificate IV in Drilling Oil & Gas (Onshore) | Superseded by RII41126 Certificate IV in Drilling Oil & Gas (Onshore) |
| RII41220 Certificate IV in Well Servicing Operations | Superseded by RII41226 Certificate IV in Well Servicing Operations |
| RII50315 Diploma of Minerals Processing | Superseded by RII50326 Diploma of Minerals Processing |
| RII60720 Advanced Diploma of Surface Coal Mining Management | Superseded by RII60726 Advanced Diploma of Surface Coal Mining Management |
| RII20220 Certificate II in Surface Extraction Operations | Updated from release 1 to 2 |
| RII20420 Certificate II in Underground Metalliferous Mining | Updated from release 1 to 2 |
| RII20520 Certificate II in Resource Processing | Updated from release 1 to 2 |
| RII20620 Certificate II in Mining/Field Exploration | Updated from release 3 to 4 |
| RII20920 Certificate II in Drilling Operations | Updated from release 3 to 4 |
| RII21120 Certificate II in Oil & Gas Drilling (Onshore) and Well Servicing | Updated from release 4 to 5 |
| RII30120 Certificate III in Surface Extraction Operations | Updated from release 2 to 3 |
| RII30220 Certificate III in Underground Coal Operations | Updated from release 3 to 4 |
| RII30320 Certificate III in Underground Metalliferous Mining | Updated from release 2 to 3 |
| RII30420 Certificate III in Resource Processing | Updated from release 1 to 2 |
| RII30520 Certificate III in Mining Exploration | Updated from release 3 to 4 |
| RII31820 Certificate III in Drilling Operations | Updated from release 3 to 4 |
| RII40120 Certificate IV in Surface Extraction Operations | Updated from release 1 to 2 |
| RII40320 Certificate IV in Underground Metalliferous Mining Operations | Updated from release 2 to 3 |
| RII40520 Certificate IV in Resource Processing | Updated from release 2 to 3 |
| RII40920 Certificate IV in Drilling Operations | Updated from release 3 to 4 |
| RII50120 Diploma of Surface Operations Management | Updated from release 1 to 2 |
| RII50820 Diploma of Drilling Oil & Gas (Onshore) | Updated from release 2 to 3 |
| RII50920 Diploma of Underground Coal Mining Management | Updated from release 2 to 3 |
| RII51020 Diploma of Well Servicing Operations | Updated from release 3 to 4 |
| RII60320 Advanced Diploma of Underground Coal Mining Management | Updated from release 3 to 4 |
| RII60415 Advanced Diploma of Drilling Management | Updated from release 4 to 5 |
Project Timeline:
The project began in February 2024 was completed by December 2025. Changes to training products were published in March 2026.
Projects for the AUM Training Package
Superseded Units Review
This targeted update focuses on the AUM30218 Certificate III in Automotive Manufacturing Technical Operations – Bus, Truck and Trailer, which currently contains outdated units that need to be replaced to maintain compliance. The review aims to bring this qualification in line with current automotive manufacturing practices, support improved delivery outcomes, and eliminate risks associated with superseded unit content.
Affected Training Products:
| Qualification: | Changes: |
| AUM30218 Certificate III in Automotive Manufacturing Technical Operations – Bus, Truck and Trailer | Superseded by AUM30226 Certificate III in Automotive Manufacturing Technical Operations – Bus, Truck and Trailer |
| AUM20218 Certificate II in Automotive Manufacturing Production – Bus, Truck and Trailer | Updated from release 2 to 3 |
Project Timeline:
Scoping was completed in 2023. Consultation and development were underway in mid-2025. Drafts were finished in late 2025, with endorsement and publication completed in March 2026. See more details about the project here.
Projects for the AUR Training Package
Review of the AURVTN120 Unit of Competency
AUSMASA is reviewing the unit AURVTN120 Remove and replace major welded panels on vehicles to address stakeholder concerns about vague or insufficient performance evidence. The revision will provide clearer assessment guidance, align performance expectations with workplace requirements, and improve training consistency in vehicle body repair.
Project Timeline:
Scoping began in 2024. Development is underway in 2025, with draft updates expected by the end of the year and endorsement in early 2026. See more details about the project here.
Development of Training for Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS)
This project will introduce new training content into the AUR training package focused on ADAS technologies such as lane-keeping assist, adaptive cruise control, and autonomous braking systems.
The goal is to develop new units and determine whether existing automotive qualifications should be updated to incorporate these emerging technologies. Stakeholder feedback during consultation will influence which products are affected.
Affected Training Products:
| Skill Set: | Change: |
|---|---|
| AURSS00066 Advanced Driver Assistance Systems Skill Set | New |
| Unit of Competency: | Change: |
|---|---|
| AURETR149 Apply knowledge of ADAS technology in vehicle pre-repair scans | Superseded by AURETR249 Scan and calibrate Advanced Driver Assistance Systems |
| AURETR052 Apply knowledge of Advanced Driver Assistance Systems | New |
| AURETR053 Apply awareness of Advanced Rider Assistance Systems | New |
| AURETR054 Diagnose and repair Advanced Driver Assistance Systems and components in vehicles | New |
Project Timeline:
Commenced in March 2025, with drafts due in August, consultation in September, finalisation in December, and endorsement by March 2026. See more details about the project here.
Review of Automotive Tyre Servicing Technology
AUSMASA is conducting a full review of AUR21920 Certificate II in Automotive Tyre Servicing Technology, along with its related units and pathways. The review will focus on updating safety protocols, tooling knowledge, and workplace relevance. Because many of the qualification’s units are used across other AUR qualifications, changes may extend well beyond the core course.
Affected Training Products:
| Unit of Competency: | Change: |
|---|---|
| AURHTJ008 Select agricultural equipment tyres, wheels and rims | New |
| AURHTJ009 Remove, inspect and refit agricultural equipment wheel and assemblies | New |
| AURHTJ007 Remove, inspect, repair and refit industrial tyres and tubes | Superseded by AURHTJ107 Remove, inspect, repair and refit industrial tyres and tubes |
| AURHTJ102 Select heavy vehicle tyres, wheels and rims | Superseded by AURHTJ202 Select heavy vehicle tyres, wheels and rims |
| AURHTJ103 Remove, inspect and refit heavy vehicle wheel and tyre assemblies | Superseded by AURHTJ203 Remove, inspect and refit heavy vehicle wheel and tyre assemblies |
| AURHTJ104 Remove, inspect, repair and refit agricultural equipment tyres and tubes | Superseded by AURHTJ204 Remove, inspect, repair and refit agricultural equipment tyres and tubes |
| AURHTJ106 Remove, inspect, repair and refit heavy vehicle tyres | Superseded by AURHTJ206 Remove, inspect, repair and refit heavy vehicle tyres |
| AURTJT002 Remove, inspect, repair and refit motorcycle tyres and tubes | Superseded by AURTJT102 Remove, inspect, repair and refit motorcycle tyres and tubes |
| AURKTJ011 Remove, inspect and fit earthmoving and off-the-road tyres | Superseded by AURKTJ111 Remove, inspect and fit earthmoving and off-the-road tyres |
| AURKTJ012 Remove, inspect and fit earthmoving and off-the-road wheel and rim assemblies | Superseded by AURKTJ112 Remove, inspect and fit earthmoving and off-the-road wheel and rim assemblies |
| AURKTJ013 Perform minor repairs to earthmoving and off-the-road tyres | Superseded by AURKTJ113 Perform minor repairs to earthmoving and off-the-road tyres |
| AURKTJ015 Select earthmoving and off-the-road tyres, wheels and rim assemblies for specific applications | Superseded by AURKTJ115 Select earthmoving and off-the-road tyres, wheels and rim assemblies |
| AURKTJ016 Use earthmoving and off-the-road tyre handlers | Superseded by AURKTJ116 Use earthmoving and off-the-road tyre handlers |
| AURKTJ011 Select light vehicle wheels and tyres | Superseded by AURLTJ111 Select light vehicle wheels and tyres |
| AURLTJ102 Remove, inspect, repair and refit light vehicle tyres and tubes | Superseded by AURKLTJ202 Remove, inspect, repair and refit light vehicle tyres |
| AURLTJ113 Remove, inspect and refit light vehicle wheel and tyre assemblies | Superseded by AURLTJ213 Remove, inspect and refit light vehicle wheel and tyre assemblies |
| AURTTJ011 Balance wheels and tyres | Superseded by AURTTJ111 Balance wheels and tyres |
| AURJTJ001 Remove, inspect and refit motorcycle wheel and tyre assemblies | Superseded by AURJTJ001 Remove, inspect and refit motorcycle wheel and tyre assemblies |
Project Timeline:
Now in the development phase, with draft components expected in late 2025. The project concluded in July 2026, with all training products uploaded to training.gov.au. See more details about the project here.
Hydrogen Fuel Cell Electric Vehicles (FCEVs) Training Product Development
This forward-looking project aims to develop new units of competency addressing the safe handling and maintenance of Hydrogen Fuel Cell Electric Vehicles (H2-FCEVs). These new training products will support Australia’s transition to clean energy automotive technologies and will potentially be added to several Certificate III qualifications, pending stakeholder approval.
Affected Training Products:
Project Timeline:
The project began in October 2024 and will conclude by November 2025. See more details about the project here.
Superseded Units Review
This project reviews qualifications across the AUR training package to identify superseded core and elective units and determine the necessary updates or replacements. The goal is to ensure qualifications remain up to date, with no expired content or packaging risks.
Affected Training Products:
| Skill Set: | Changes: |
|---|---|
| AURSS00026 Percussive Drill Maintenance and Advanced Systems Diagnosis Skill Set | Updated from release 2 to 3 |
| AURSS00028 Automotive CNG Service and Repair Skill Set | Updated from release 1 to 2 |
| AURSS00029 Automotive Electrical Skill Set for Light Vehicle Technicians | Updated from release 1 to 2 |
| AURSS00032 Automotive LPG Installation, Service and Repair Skill Set | Updated from release 1 to 2 |
| AURSS00033 Automotive LPG Service and Repair Skill Set | Updated from release 1 to 2 |
| AURSS00036 Heavy Commercial Vehicle Skill Set for Light Vehicle Technicians | Updated from release 2 to 3 |
| AURSS00037 Hybrid Electric Vehicle Inspection and Servicing Skill Set | Updated from release 1 to 2 |
| AURSS00039 Mobile Plant Skill Set for Heavy Commercial Vehicle Technicians | Updated from release 1 to 2 |
| AURSS00040 Mobile Plant Skill Set for Light Vehicle Technicians | Updated from release 1 to 2 |
| AURSS00044 Vehicle Air Conditioning Service, Retrofit and Repair Skill Set | Updated from release 1 to 2 |
| AURSS00045 Vehicle Refrigerant Recovery Skill Set | Updated from release 1 to 2 |
| AURSS00046 Advanced Body Repair Skill Set | Updated from release 1 to 2 |
| AURSS00047 Advanced Body Repair Welding Skill Set | Updated from release 1 to 2 |
| AURSS00048 Advanced Vehicle Refinishing Skill Set | Updated from release 1 to 2 |
Project Timeline:
The project began in February 2024 and was completed in December 2025. Training product changes were endorsed and published in March 2026. See more details about the project here.
What Your RTO Should Do Now
With so many projects reaching critical stages, RTOs should be proactively preparing for transition. Here’s what we recommend:
- Audit your current scope for qualifications and units likely to be affected by any of the listed projects.
- Track AUSMASA’s project pages and sign up for draft release updates and public consultation opportunities.
- Assess your existing training resources to determine whether updates, replacements, or revalidation will be required.
- Start planning for transition before endorsement. Waiting until materials are released may create delivery delays or non-compliance risks.
- Engage with consultation processes to ensure your voice is heard and your training delivery needs are represented.
By starting early, your RTO will be well positioned to maintain uninterrupted delivery and adapt smoothly to changing industry standards.
Frequently Asked Questions
What units are being reviewed in the RII training package?
Units across emergency response, mining operations, and civil construction are being reviewed to remove duplication and modernise content.
How do consultation processes shape RII training package updates?
Industry stakeholders provide input on unit relevance, assessment standards, and qualification structure to guide meaningful updates.
What new technologies are influencing changes to the AUR training package?
ADAS and hydrogen fuel systems are driving the creation of new training products to reflect modern vehicle technologies.
How does AUSMASA manage AUM training package reviews?
AUSMASA conducts project scoping, stakeholder consultations, and technical development before submitting updates for endorsement.
When are the next major training package updates expected?
Most current projects are expected to release drafts in late 2025, with final endorsement occurring between late 2025 and mid-2026.
Stay Compliant with Ready-to-Use Training Resources
Preparing for training package updates doesn’t need to be overwhelming. At TotalVET Training Resources, we offer high-quality, audit-friendly RTO materials that support smooth transitions when qualifications or units change.
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- Comprehensive learner guides and assessment tools
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Whether you need to replace a single unit or prepare your entire scope for transition, we can help you stay ahead of compliance obligations and continue delivering quality training. Explore our catalogue or contact us today to request a free sample.
