The Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF) is a quality assured national framework of qualifications in the school, vocational education and training (VET) and higher education sectors in Australia. All Registered Training Organisations (RTOs) deliver training within this framework and recognise training, assessment and qualifications delivered by any other RTO. This means that students can transfer between RTOs without worrying whether their previous study will be recognised. It also means that your qualifications will be recognised by industry Australia wide making it easier to move and work throughout Australia.
Qualifications are grouped into categories which reflect the skills level gained.
Course Category |
Purpose of course |
AQF level |
People who do these courses might.... |
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Foundation |
Courses that assist people to develop the skills they need in literacy, numeracy, language, self management and job-readiness |
Foundation Level and Pre-Accredited Courses |
... have missed out on the base level learning needed for further training and employment |
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Skills creation |
Courses that develop basic skills and knowledge |
Certificate I |
… want to undertake basic training in an industry area, to use the relevant skills immediately in the workplace, or to prepare for entry to work in a particular industry |
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Courses that develop general, basic employment, pre-employment or pre-apprenticeship skills and knowledge |
Certificate II |
Skills building |
Courses that develop more advanced employment or basic supervisory skills and knowledge |
Certificate III |
… want to enter a skilled trade or practice an occupation that requires skills and knowledge beyond a basic level. Qualifications at this level require significant commitment by learners and may provide entry to licensed or otherwise regulated skilled occupations |
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A para-professional course involving a wide range of technical, self-management and supervisory skills and knowledge |
Certificate IV |
Skills deepening |
A professional course based on theoretical concepts, including management skills and knowledge |
Diploma or Advanced Diploma |
… want to progress to a higher level within an industry area in which they already have employment, or wish to enter employment at a more skilled specialised or paraprofessional level |
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