As we approach the end of February 2025, Registered Training Organisations (RTOs) across Australia must turn their attention to an essential regulatory requirement—the Annual Declaration on Compliance.
This year, the Annual Declaration on Compliance will officially open on 3 March 2025 and must be submitted by 31 March 2025. This declaration serves as a crucial self-assessment tool for RTOs, ensuring compliance with the Standards for RTOs 2015 and the broader VET Quality Framework.
Failure to submit the declaration on time is a serious breach of registration conditions and may lead to regulatory action, including sanctions, additional compliance scrutiny, or even deregistration. This article provides a comprehensive guide for RTO CEOs and compliance managers to understand their obligations, prepare for submission, and ensure full compliance.
Why is the Annual Declaration on Compliance Important?
The Annual Declaration on Compliance is more than just a formality—it is a legal affirmation by the CEO that their RTO meets all regulatory requirements. It plays a pivotal role in:
✅ Ensuring Transparency – The declaration provides ASQA (Australian Skills Quality Authority) with an insight into an RTO’s self-assessment and compliance practices.
✅ Encouraging Accountability – It holds RTO CEOs responsible for monitoring and managing their organisation’s compliance status.
✅ Identifying Compliance Risks – By reviewing training and assessment processes, RTOs can identify and rectify potential risks before they lead to non-compliance.
✅ Maintaining Data Accuracy – The declaration ensures that all records are accurate and up to date, reducing errors in reporting and student outcomes.
✅ Enhancing Student Confidence – Compliance with regulatory standards ensures that students receive quality training and nationally recognised qualifications.
✅ Protecting RTO Registration – Non-compliance with ASQA regulations can result in sanctions, financial penalties, and even loss of registration.
✅ Demonstrating Commitment to Quality – By submitting the declaration, RTOs affirm their commitment to high-quality training and education standards.
The CEO Declaration: A Legal Obligation
The Annual Declaration on Compliance must be signed and submitted by the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the RTO. It is a legal document, and false or misleading declarations can result in serious penalties under the National Vocational Education and Training Regulator Act 2011.
By signing this declaration, the CEO confirms that:
- All information about the RTO on training.gov.au is accurate and up to date.
- The RTO complies with all relevant legislative and regulatory requirements under the VET Quality Framework.
- To the best of their knowledge, all owners and high managerial agents of the RTO meet the Fit and Proper Person Requirements.
Any identified compliance issues must be rectified or appropriately risk-managed before submission.
Preparing for the 2025 CEO Declaration: Best Practices
To ensure a smooth and compliant submission, RTOs should follow these best practices:
✔ Conduct an internal compliance audit before submission. – Use ASQA’s self-assessment tools to identify any gaps in compliance.
✔ Update Policies and Procedures – Review and update policies, ensuring they reflect the latest regulations.
✔ Engage trainers, assessors, and compliance officers to review compliance. – Verify qualifications, industry currency, and professional development records.
✔ Check Student Records and AVETMISS Data – Ensure accurate and complete student enrolment and completion records.
✔ Validate Training and Assessment Materials – Make sure all resources meet industry standards.
✔ Communicate with ASQA if Needed – If any compliance issues exist, be proactive in reporting them and outlining a corrective action plan.
The Annual Declaration on Compliance 2025 is a critical legal responsibility for RTO CEOs. By submitting this declaration, RTOs demonstrate their commitment to quality education and regulatory integrity.
With the submission deadline of 31 March 2025, now is the time for RTOs to review compliance frameworks, update policies, and ensure all necessary documentation is in place. Taking a proactive approach to compliance will not only help meet ASQA’s requirements but also enhance the reputation and credibility of the RTO in Australia’s VET sector.
FAQs: Annual Declaration on Compliance 2025
1. What is the Annual Declaration on Compliance?
The Annual Declaration on Compliance is a legal requirement for all RTOs in Australia, where the CEO confirms the RTO meets the VET Quality Framework and complies with ASQA’s regulations.
2. When is the 2025 deadline for submission?
The 2025 Annual Declaration on Compliance opens on 3 March 2025 and must be submitted by 31 March 2025.
3. What happens if an RTO fails to submit the declaration?
Failure to submit the declaration may result in regulatory action, additional audits, suspension, or even deregistration.
4. How can an RTO ensure compliance before submission?
RTOs should conduct an internal audit, review policies, verify trainer qualifications, update training materials, and check AVETMISS data before submitting.
5. Where can RTOs get help with compliance?
RTOs needing assistance can seek professional compliance services or consult with ASQA and VET regulatory experts.
