Below are a series of Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for Registered Training Organisations (RTOs) and prospective learners relating to the International Skills Training (IST) courses program.
On this page:
For Registered Training Organisations
When can I apply?
You can apply at any time.
How do I apply to deliver an IST course? What are the selection criteria?
To apply, please:
- read the program guidelines
- ensure you meet the eligibility criteria
- complete the application form and send it to: InternationalSkillsTraining@dewr.gov.au
Details of the application and selection process are outlined in the IST program guidelines.
How long will the application process take?
The Department will aim to notify you of the outcome of your application within 10 business days of lodgement following receipt of a completed application.
Who can deliver the courses?
Australian Registered Training Organisations can apply to deliver the IST courses. A detailed list of eligibility criteria can be found in the program guidelines.
Where can the courses be delivered?
IST courses can be delivered in all countries (except Australia).
I am a training organisation in another country, can I deliver these courses?
Australian RTOs are IST providers and may enter into arrangements with third parties and overseas partner organisation. However, they remain liable for the activities and performance of partner organisations (in line with the requirements of the program guidelines). You can find a list of approved providers on our website.
Do I need to partner with a local training organisation to deliver these courses?
No. IST providers may enter into arrangements with third parties to deliver IST courses, but this is not mandatory under the IST program guidelines. There may be in-country requirements outside of the IST program.
What is a Partner Organisation?
The IST program guidelines define a Partner Organisation as an overseas training provider that is a separate legal entity from the Approved RTO.
IST providers must seek permission from the Department to work with a partner organisation to deliver the courses.
IST providers remain liable for the acts or omissions of any partner organisations with whom they enter into an agreement.
Further conditions and requirements for partnering arrangements are outlined in the IST program guidelines.
Can I form a consortium to deliver these courses?
Yes. If forming a consortium with Australian RTOs, each RTO must be an approved IST provider.
Is there government funding available to deliver these courses?
The Department does not provide funding for the delivery of IST courses. The IST courses have been developed as commercially sustainable vocational education and training products. RTOs are responsible for sourcing their own funding and commercial opportunities. Funding may be available as part of Australian Government aid and capacity building projects – refer to the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade for opportunities.
Does the training have to be delivered in English?
All courses have been developed in English, but there is scope to deliver in other languages. Where available, the Department will provide translated course materials to IST providers. Translated materials are currently available in Hindi, Chinese (simplified Mandarin), Korean, Spanish, Vietnamese and Bahasa Indonesian.
Are there resources available to help me deliver these courses?
A range of support products will be made available exclusively to IST providers. They include standardised assessment tools, learning materials, product branding, and country profiles for potential education markets.
Do the TVET Trainer, TVET Assessor or Advanced TVET Trainer and Assessor courses replace the Cert IV/Diploma in TAE for Australians delivering training overseas?
No. Eligibility to train or assess AQF courses in Australia or internationally is not affected by this program.
What qualifications do trainers need to deliver these courses?
Each IST course has its own vocational competency requirements for trainers. Please refer to the IST program guidelines for more information.
For prospective learners
Who offers the courses? Where and when do they offer them? How long do they take? How much do they cost?
A list of participating Australian RTOs is available on our website. Please contact these organisations for further details.
Are these courses recognised or transferable internationally?
No. The courses are not Australian Qualification Framework qualifications.
The courses have been designed to teach core skills in high-demand job roles with a focus on building capacity of the workforce and improving access to skilled labour.
Will successful completion of an IST course qualify me to work in Australia?
No. The courses are not Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF) qualifications.
There are many factors which influence migration to Australia. Please consult the Department of Home Affairs website for further information on working in Australia.
What certification will I receive on successful completion of an IST course?
You will receive an official IST course completion certificate.
What opportunities are open to me in completing an IST course?
You will be able to demonstrate to employers that, through high-quality Australian vocational education and training, you have developed a range of skills and knowledge to be applied in your industry.