Stay Informed: Key Updates in HLT Training Package

06 November 2023 HLT Training Package Update: New Transition Deadline Set for HLT40113

The Australian Skills Quality Authority (ASQA) has decided to provide additional time for the completion of the HLT40113 Certificate IV in Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander Primary Health Care. This HLT training update goes beyond the established guidelines (Clause 1.26 (a) in the Standards for Registered Training Organisations 2015) and follows a recent application for prolonged transition.

This development in the HLT training package means that the original deadline for training, assessment, and certification issuance, initially set for 31 December 2024, has now been extended to 31 July 2025. This adjustment aims to offer flexibility and support to students pursuing this qualification. Aligned with the principles of the Guidance for Providers – Learner Transition, ASQA evaluates applications for extended transition periods by considering the potential genuine disadvantage to a specific learner cohort without such an extension.

This extension is exclusively applicable to students who commenced their training and/or assessment in the qualification on or before 13 December 2023. It is imperative that all affected students either successfully complete their studies or transition to replacement qualifications by the revised deadline.

Prior to this decision, ASQA engaged in consultations with the Victorian Registration and Qualifications Authority and the Training Accreditation Council of Western Australia. Further discussions were held with the Department of Employment and Workplace Relations and the Jobs and Skills Council, which bears operational responsibility for the HLT training package.

Crucially, the HLT40113 Certificate IV in Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander Primary Health Care will remain on the scope of registration for RTOs until the conclusion of the extended transition period. This HLT training update underscores ASQA’s commitment to the ongoing support and acknowledgment of the qualification’s significance in the healthcare sector.

14 September 2023 HLT Training Update: Extended Transition Period Approved for Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander Health Training Package Qualifications

In line with the Guidance for Providers – Learner Transition, the Australia Skills Quality Authority (ASQA) approved an extended transition period for specific Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander healthcare qualifications within the health (HLT) training package. ASQA considers applications for extended transition periods when it’s demonstrated that failing to grant an extension would genuinely disadvantage a group of learners.

With this HLT training update, the transition period for the training, assessment, and certification issuance for these courses has been pushed from the original deadline of 31 December 2024 to 31 July 2025.

The HLT qualifications with an extended transition period are:

• HLT30113 – Certificate III in Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander Primary Health Care
• HLT40213 – Certificate IV in Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander Primary Health Care Practice

The extension exclusively applies to students who started their formal training and assessment in their respective courses on or before 13 December 2023.

All learners must complete their training and attain certification by the end of the transition period. Alternatively, students who can’t complete their training on or before the deadline may need to switch to replacement qualifications by the new transition end date.

These qualifications are essential for Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander people working to provide a range of primary health care services, catering to the unique needs of the Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander clients and communities.

Read more about the extended transition period on HLT qualifications here.

1 August 2023 Training Update: Extended Transition Period Approved for Critical Health Training Package Qualifications

In a significant update to the HLT training package, the Australian Skills Quality Authority (ASQA) has recently announced an extended transition period for four critical Health qualifications. This rare exception is a relief for learners in the healthcare sector, aiming to ensure a smooth transition to new qualifications and avoid potential disadvantages.

The extended transition period, scheduled to conclude on 31 July 2024, brings relief to learners pursuing specific Health qualifications. ASQA’s decision allows those already enrolled or planning to enrol in impacted courses to complete their studies and obtain the necessary certifications during this extended period.

However, all students need to finish their courses or transition to replacement qualifications by the end of the transition period.

The HLT Training Package Australia Qualifications Granted Extended Transition Period

The qualifications with an extended transition period are:

• HLT23215 – Certificate II in Health Support Services
• HLT37115 – Certificate III in Hospital/Health Services Pharmacy Support
• HLT47115 – Certificate IV in Hospital/Health Services Pharmacy Support
• HLT47315 – Certificate IV in Health Administration

These qualifications are vital for the healthcare industry, providing essential skills and knowledge for aspiring professionals to contribute effectively to various healthcare settings.

Critical Health Training Package Qualifications Retained on RTOs’ Scope Until 2024

For registered training organisations (RTOs), the HLT training update means that the specified qualifications will remain on their scope of registration until the extended transition period concludes.

The new training update empowers your RTO to ensure a seamless transition process for your learners, accommodating their needs and maintaining the highest standard of training delivery.

ASQA’s decision to grant an extended transition period for these critical Health qualifications underscores their commitment to facilitating accessible and effective vocational education and training. By offering learners extra time to complete their courses, ASQA aims to alleviate potential disadvantages and support the development of a well-trained and competent healthcare workforce.

Seize Opportunity with New HLT Training Update

ASQA encouraged RTOs to embrace the benefits of these qualifications in healthcare ensuring a seamless transition. The extended transition period allows your learners to develop their skills fully, empowering them to make a meaningful impact in their healthcare careers.

03 July 2023 HLT Training Package Update: Enhancements to Qualifications and Skill Set

In a continuous effort to ensure the highest standards of healthcare education, the HLT: Health training package has undergone updates on training.gov.au as implemented by SkillsIQ. These updates aim to enhance qualifications and skill sets within the healthcare sector, presenting RTOs with new opportunities to provide quality training programs that meet industry demands.

Updated Qualifications and Skill Set

The recent updates encompass a broad range of qualifications and a skill set, reflecting the evolving needs of the healthcare industry in Australia. RTOs should pay attention to the following training updates:

Qualifications:

Skill Sets:

• HLTSS00059 Venous Blood Collection Skill Set

Staying Ahead of the Game: What RTOs Can Do

To ensure RTOs stay at the forefront of healthcare education, here are some key actions they can take to stay informed and leverage the updates effectively:

1. Stay updated: Regularly visit the training.gov.au website to stay informed about the latest updates and changes to the Health training package. This will help RTOs remain proactive and adapt to their training programs accordingly.
2. Review and assess: Carefully review the updated qualifications and skill sets relevant to their training programs. Assess the changes made and consider how they impact the delivery of training and the skills learners acquire.
3. Seek guidance: Engage with industry associations, professional networks, and other RTOs to gain insights and share experiences related to the updates. Seek guidance from experts in healthcare education to ensure compliance with the updated standards.
4. Update training materials: Evaluate existing training materials and resources to ensure they align with the updated qualifications and skill sets. Update training materials, assessments, and resources to provide learners with the most relevant and up to date information.
5. Professional development: Invest in the professional development of trainers and assessors. Encourage them to attend workshops, webinars, and conferences focused on healthcare education. This enables them to stay updated on industry trends and best practices.
6. Engage with industry networks: Actively participate in industry networks, advisory committees, and forums. Collaborate with industry professionals, employers, and healthcare practitioners to gain insights into current and future skill requirements.
7. Continuous improvement: Implement a culture of continuous improvement within the RTO. Regularly review and evaluate training programs, seek feedback from learners and industry stakeholders, and make necessary adjustments to ensure ongoing excellence.

These proactive steps will enable RTOs to remain at the forefront of healthcare training and education, equipping learners with the skills and knowledge needed for success in the dynamic healthcare industry.

16 June 2023 HLT Training Package Update

For vocational education and training, it is not uncommon for certain qualifications to undergo transitions and updates over time. These changes aim to align the skills and knowledge imparted with the evolving needs of industries and learners. However, managing these transitions can sometimes pose challenges for both training providers and students. Recognising the challenges, the Australian Skills Quality Authority (ASQA) has the authority to approve extended transition periods to facilitate a smoother journey for learners. In line with this, an extended transition period has recently been granted for the HLT42015 Certificate IV in Massage Therapy and HLT52015 Diploma of Remedial Massage.

Why an Extended Transition Period?

ASQA’s decision to allow an extended transition period for these qualifications is based on careful consideration and a commitment to ensuring that learners are not disadvantaged during the process. The extension goes beyond the standard transition periods specified in the Standards for Registered Training Organisations 2015, as outlined in Clauses 1.26 (a), (b), and (c). ASQA acknowledges that there are circumstances in which a longer transition period is necessary to prevent genuine disadvantages for a particular cohort of learners.

Details of the Extended Transition Period

The extended transition period for HLT42015 Certificate IV in Massage Therapy and HLT52015 Diploma of Remedial Massage has been approved by ASQA. It encompasses an extended timeline for training, assessment, and certification issuance, concluding on 14 December 2024. This means that students can enrol and commence these qualifications beyond the initial cut-off date of 13 December 2023. However, it is important to note that all students must complete their studies or transition to the replacement qualification by 14 December 2024.

Collaborative Support and Consultation

Various industry stakeholders decided to extend the transition end date in collaboration with ASQA. The Association of Massage Therapists, Australian Natural Therapists Association, Massage & Myotherapy Australia, Hapi Physiotherapy, Massage Philosophy, Chi-Link, and the Victorian Massage and Myotherapy RTO Network supported the extension. ASQA also consulted with the Victorian Registration and Qualifications Authority (VRQA) and the Training Accreditation Council Western Australia (TAC WA) during the process, ensuring comprehensive input from relevant authorities.

Continued Scope of Registration

During the extended transition period, the HLT42015 Certificate IV in Massage Therapy and HLT52015 Diploma of Remedial Massage will remain on the scope of registration for the respective Registered Training Organisations (RTOs). This means that these qualifications will continue to be offered by the RTOs until the end of the extended transition period, allowing learners ample opportunity to pursue their chosen career paths.

29 May 2023 HLT Training Package Update

To facilitate a seamless transition for learners and ensure the highest quality of education and training, the Australian Skills Quality Authority (ASQA) has recently approved an extended transition period for the HLT54115 Diploma of Nursing. This exciting announcement significantly benefits providers and learners, allowing for a more comprehensive and efficient educational experience.

ASQA recognises the potential disadvantages that can arise from rigid transition timelines. To address this, ASQA can grant extended transition periods beyond the standard requirements outlined in the Standards for Registered Training Organisations 2015. This extended transition period will be applicable to all providers with scope for delivering the qualification, ensuring a level playing field for learners across the board.

The extended training, assessment, and certification issuance period for the HLT54115 Diploma of Nursing will come to a close on 12 March 2024. It is worth noting that the decision to extend the transition end date for this qualification and cohorts has garnered strong support from the Australian Nursing & Midwifery Accreditation Council. This endorsement underscores the collaborative efforts between regulatory bodies and industry stakeholders in ensuring the best educational outcomes for learners.

During the extended transition period, the qualification will remain on the provider’s scope of registration. This means that providers will retain the ability to offer and deliver the qualification, providing learners with uninterrupted access to the necessary resources and support.

Read more about the extended transition update here

16 May 2023 HLT Training Package Update

Extended Transition Period: Ensuring Smooth Progression in Allied Health Assistance Education

ASQA has recently approved an extended transition period for HLT33015 – Certificate III in Allied Health Assistance and HLT43015 – Certificate IV in Allied Health Assistance qualifications. This means that the training, assessment, and certification issuance for these qualifications will continue until 31 December 2024. The extension grants additional time for learners and providers to align with the updated requirements.

The decision to extend the transition end date for these qualifications was made in collaboration with key stakeholders and industry experts. The Victorian Curriculum and Assessment Authority (VCAA), Icaria Health Pty Ltd, and Albury Wodonga Health have expressed their support for the extended transition period, recognising its significance in facilitating a smooth transition for learners. ASQA also consulted with the Victorian Registration and Qualifications Authority (VRQA) and the Training Accreditation Council Western Australia (TAC WA) during the decision-making process, ensuring alignment with regulatory standards.

Providers offering HLT33015 and HLT43015 qualifications will retain them on their scope of registration until the end of the approved extended transition period. This commitment ensures the uninterrupted availability of these qualifications for learners seeking allied health assistance education.

12 May 2023 HLT Training Package Update

Extended Transition Period for HLT Training Package Qualifications: Ensuring Equitable Access to Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander Primary Health Care Education

As part of ongoing efforts to provide inclusive and accessible education, the Australian Skills Quality Authority (ASQA) has approved an extended transition period for several qualifications within the HLT Training Package. These qualifications specifically cater to Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander Primary Health Care, addressing the unique needs of these communities. The decision to extend the transition period was made in collaboration with various organisations and industry bodies, ensuring that learners are not disadvantaged during the transition process.

With the support and input from the National Association of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health Workers and Practitioners, the National Aboriginal Community Health Organisation, and the Australian Industry and Skills Commission, ASQA has approved an extended transition period for the following qualifications:

• HLT20113 Certificate II in Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander Primary Health Care
• HLT30113 Certificate III in Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander Primary Health Care
• HLT40113 Certificate IV in Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander Primary Health Care
• HLT40213 Certificate IV in Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander Primary Health Care Practice
• HLT50113 Diploma of Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander Primary Health Care
• HLT50213 Diploma of Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander Primary Health Care Practice
• HLT60113 Advanced Diploma of Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander Health Care

ASQA consulted with the Victorian Registration and Qualifications Authority (VRQA) and the Training Accreditation Council Western Australia (TAC WA) regarding this extended transition request. This collaborative effort ensures that the decision aligns with industry standards and maintains the quality of education delivery.

The Transition Timeline

The extended training, assessment, and certification issuance period for the above-mentioned qualifications will conclude on 31 December 2024. During this timeframe, providers with the necessary scope for delivery will continue to offer these qualifications to interested learners. It is important to note that these qualifications will remain on the provider’s scope of registration until the end of the extended transition period, ensuring continuity and accessibility.

What RTOs Need to Do About the Latest HLT Training Package Updates?

To stay current with HLT training package updates, RTOs must adapt their programs. Equip your team with the latest techniques and knowledge for optimal training. Here’s what your RTO should do:

• Assess alignment: If the update doesn’t match your current program, apply for a scope of registration.
• Update resources: Update training materials to reflect the changes in the training updates.
• Stay ahead: Incorporate the latest updates and access relevant resources from developers.
• Transition smoothly: Ensure students complete courses before the deadline or transfer them to the updated program.