Key Takeaways:
- VET qualification reform has moved beyond consultation, with the updated Training Package Organising Framework in effect from 1 July 2025.
- The purpose-based approach is designed to simplify VET qualifications, reduce complexity, remove duplication, and better reflect learner, employer, and industry needs.
- Craig Robertson led early reform work as chair of the VET Qualifications Reform Design Group, helping guide the shift towards a more modern qualification design model.
- More than 5,000 units of competency were identified as having significant overlap, making duplicated unit content a major driver for VET qualification reform.
- As VET qualification reform rolls out, RTOs should watch for updated qualifications, revised training package rules, and changes to delivery requirements.
2026 Update: Where VET Qualification Reform Stands Now
Since this article was first published, Australia’s VET qualification reform process has moved from consultation into implementation. On 6 December 2024, Skills Ministers agreed to a new purpose-based approach to VET qualification design, aiming to simplify course design, reduce complexity, and better meet the needs of learners, employers, and industries.
From 1 July 2025, the updated Training Package Organising Framework (TPOF) came into effect. All new training package development projects must now follow the revised framework, including updated requirements for considering the purpose of each qualification and using new design templates.
For RTOs, this means the reform discussed in 2023 are now beginning to shape how new and updated qualifications are designed, reviewed, and prepared for release. Implementation is expected to roll out progressively, with updated qualifications appearing over time depending on sector readiness and demand.
In a significant move towards enhancing the quality and relevance of vocational education and training (VET) qualifications, the Victorian Skills Authority’s CEO, Craig Robertson, has been appointed as the chair of the newly established VET Qualifications Reform Design Group. The group was established to advise on the design of a reform process that could modernise and simplify VET qualification design.
The announcement comes as a response to the challenges posed by redundant course content and the growing demand for adaptable skills in a rapidly changing economy.
The Current State of VET Qualifications
As highlighted by the Minister for Skills and Training, Brendan O’Connor, the existing VET qualifications framework suffers from a plethora of unit duplications. This phenomenon forces students to relearn material they’ve already covered, ultimately impeding their learning progress and wasting valuable time. Remarkably, more than 5,000 units of competency have been identified as containing substantial overlap, with at least 70% of their content duplicated across different units. This redundancy has become increasingly apparent as industries evolve and require more agile, forward-focused skills.
Adapting to the Modern Economy
The appointment of Craig Robertson as the head of the VET Qualification Reform Design Group underscores the government’s commitment to aligning vocational education with the needs of the modern economy. In today’s work landscape, where job transitions, career changes, and lifelong learning are the norm, the traditional VET model no longer suffices. The pace of technological advancements and industry shifts demands a learning approach that is not just adaptable but anticipatory, enabling individuals to stay relevant in a rapidly changing job market.
Diverse Expertise in Action
The newly formed design group boasts an array of experts from various sectors, demonstrating a holistic approach to reforming VET qualifications. With representatives from trade unions, industry associations, educational institutions, and government bodies, the group is well poised to address the multifaceted challenges facing VET. Collaboration among these diverse stakeholders is crucial to ensure that the new qualifications framework meets the expectations of both industries and learners.
A Roadmap for Change
The group’s ambitious timeline outlines two major phases of reform. The first phase, set to be completed by the end of 2023, focuses on designing new training package rules. These rules will govern the development of units of competency and qualifications that are tailor-made to suit industry requirements. The aim is to eliminate redundancy, enhance flexibility, and foster the transferability of skills. In the subsequent phase, slated for 2024, the group will work on a comprehensive change program to facilitate a smooth transition to the updated VET qualifications framework.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is VET qualification reform?
VET qualification reform is an Australian Government-led process to modernise how vocational education and training qualifications are designed. The reform aims to simplify VET qualifications, reduce duplicated unit content, and make training package products more responsive to learner, employer, and industry needs.
Why is VET qualification reform happening?
VET qualification reform is happening because the existing qualifications framework has been identified as complex and repetitive. More than 5,000 units of competency were found to contain significant overlap, which can cause learners to repeat similar content and make qualification design less flexible for changing workforce needs.
What changed under VET qualification reform in 2025?
From 1 July 2025, the updated Training Package Organising Framework came into effect. This means new training package development projects must now follow revised requirements, including a purpose-based approach to VET qualification design and updated templates for training package products.
How does VET qualification reform affect RTOs?
VET qualification reform may affect RTOs by changing how new and updated qualifications are structured, reviewed, and prepared for release. RTOs should monitor training package updates, revised qualification requirements, and any future changes that may affect delivery, assessment, and transition planning.
Who led the early VET qualification reform work?
Craig Robertson, CEO of the Victorian Skills Authority, was appointed chair of the VET Qualifications Reform Design Group. The group helped guide early work on a more modern, flexible, and streamlined approach to VET qualification design.
Conclusion
The appointment of Craig Robertson as the head of the VET Qualification Reform Design Group heralds a promising era of transformation for vocational education in Australia. With a spotlight on eliminating redundancy, enhancing adaptability, and embracing the dynamic nature of industries, this initiative is set to benefit both learners and employers. By streamlining the VET qualifications landscape, this reform will empower individuals to navigate their careers with agility and confidence in an ever-evolving economy.
