Speaker 1: 0:23

Welcome to today's episode. It's one of the most important we've done so far, because the final countdown has begun. We are now under two months away from 1 July 2025, when the revised standards for RTOs come fully into effect. This is your six-week survival guide to help you prioritise, act smart and get your RTO across the finish line. So grab your notebook, because I'm going to give you a clear, actionable roadmap. We're standing at the threshold of major change. For months, we've been talking about the new outcome, standards, compliance requirements and the credential policy, but now it's real. Here's what I want you to remember. You still have time just to make meaningful progress, but you need to be focused and intentional.

Speaker 1: 1:29

Many RTOs I speak to are freely overwhelmed, feeling very overwhelmed right now. There's fear have I missed anything? Or what if an audit comes up straight away? But I want you to take a breath, a deep breath. This is about doing the right things, not all the things. And let me acknowledge, right now there's additional confusion because of how ASQA is handling the transition. Earlier this year, asqa stated that initial registrations and additions to scope submitted on or after 1 May would need to comply with the new standards. However, as of last week, my own team reached out to ASQA on 1 May asking about the new process and no one on the ASQA advice line could give us a definitive answer. They referred us to the practice guides. But here's the issue the practice guides do not provide the updated application forms or operational instructions. So, even though the deadline has technically passed, the exact process is still unclear. What this tells me and what I want to pass on to you is that we are all working in a transitional space right now, where preparation and documentation are your best friends.

Speaker 1: 2:57

Let's break this down even more. Here's your six-week roadmap. Week one complete your gap analysis. Review your RTO's compliance against the revised standards. You can also check out the vivacity tracker or use one of our checklists to document gaps. Focus especially on high-risk areas governance, trainer credentials, industry consultation and assessment practices. Week two update core policies and procedures. Prioritise policies directly impacting by the new standards. Update your enrolment form, your TAS and your learner support procedures. Week three train your team. Conduct a team briefing or mini workshop. Make sure your trainers, assessors and administration staff understand what's changing. Assign champions for key areas like assessment, validation or governance.

Speaker 1: 4:08

Week 4. Check systems and evidence. Audit your systems. Can you prove compliance. Audit your systems. Can you prove compliance? Check your records, tools, moderation logs and industry engagement evidence. Test data security and retention processes.

Speaker 1: 4:27

Week 5. Simulate an internal audit. Run a mock audit or health check. Get external input if possible or use a checklist and self-review, that's if ASCO have released their form yet. Identify last-minute fixes. Week six final touches and confidence check.

Speaker 1: 4:57

Finalise your documentation. Clean up files and ensure all records are ready. Brief leadership on any remaining risks or issues. Prepare your mindset. Know that you are ready to face an audit if it comes. If you're thinking, angela, I'm not even halfway through. Well, here's some quick wins for you. Prioritise critical areas trainer credentials, assessment, quality, governance, industry engagement and how are you going to manage risk.

Speaker 1: 5:28

Update key documents. Focus on the most critical policies aligned to the new standards. Communicate quickly. Get your team aligned, even with a short meeting or summary document. Book expert help. Reach out for compliance clarity. Call or get some support from Vervacity if you need guidance.

Speaker 1: 5:53

Given the ASQA uncertainty, here's what I recommend Document every interaction with ASQA. Keep written records of names, dates and advice you receive. Prepare as if the revised standards apply, even if the forms aren't updated yet. Stay agile, check the ASQA website daily and be ready to pivot as new information is released. Connect with your network. Other RTOs are going through the same confusion and sharing insights can help. Check out the Vervacity RTO community on Facebook. Also, we have the RTO community on LinkedIn.

Speaker 1: 6:38

Remember, asqa will expect providers to demonstrate good faith efforts to comply, even if some details are still evolving. Just remember you are not alone in this. Every RTO across the country is navigating these changes in this. Every RTO across the country is navigating these changes. Some are ahead, some are behind, but what matters now is how you show up in the next six weeks. Focus on what matters, get help where needed, and Vivacity is here to help. Trust that you have the strength and resilience to get through this.

Speaker 1: 7:18

Compliance isn't just a regulatory burden. It's about ensuring quality outcomes for your RTO and your reputation. Thank you for tuning into the RTO Superhero Podcast. If you found value in today's episode, please subscribe and leave us a review. Your feedback can help us to continue to provide insightful content to support you and your journey with the new standards for RTOs. If you're ready to get expert help with your compliance transition, visit our website wwwvivacitycomau. You can also download one of our e-books, and we've got a variety of free resources that you can access. You can also book a compliance clarity call to explore our membership options and how we can assist you Stay compliant and keep surviving and thriving.