RTO Initial Registration
Looking for help to set up your RTO?
Thinking About Becoming An RTO. What Happens Next?
Setting up an RTO involves much more than completing an application. What will you deliver? Who will you train? How will your RTO operate? And importantly, how will you demonstrate to ASQA that you are ready to deliver quality nationally recognised training?
You don’t have to work it all out on your own. RTO Consulting can guide you through the registration and setup process, providing support, direction and advice from the planning stages through to your application and ASQA assessment.
Becoming an RTO is a big decision, and having the right guidance from the start can make all the difference. RTO Consulting has supported organisations with RTO registration and setup since 1999. Founded by Angela McGregor, who brings more than 20 years’ experience as an RTO consultant as well as first-hand experience setting up and managing her own RTO, we provide practical, personalised support from your initial ideas through to your application and ASQA assessment.
How We Support Your RTO Registration And Setup
- A clear, streamlined process for setting up your RTO.
- An overview of the requirements of becoming an RTO and the ongoing RTO compliance issues you may face.
- An overview of what compliance with the VET Quality Framework requires.
- Direction, support and assistance with the preparation of your application and supporting documents
Find Out If Your Organisation Is Ready To Become An RTO
Tell us about your plans and we'll tell you what is involved in RTO registration, what it is likely to cost and whether the timing is right.
Book a Discovery CallDo You Know What Units Or Qualifications You'd Like To Train?
Do You Know Where You Will Find Students?
What Does RTO Registration Cost?
ASQA charges a $2,350 initial fee and a $5,000 registration fee for initial registration. Fees can change, so always check the current amounts on ASQA's fees and charges page.
ASQA's fees are only part of the budget. Total setup costs typically range from $15,000 to $50,000 or more, depending on your circumstances, and larger organisations or those with several training locations can pay significantly more. Your budget should also allow for an accountant, a consultant, technology, course development, staff and facilities.
Our consulting fee depends on how much support you need. Book a discovery call and we'll talk through your plans, the likely effort and the cost.
Why Use An RTO Consultant For Your ASQA Registration?
ASQA allows applicants to use consultants, but its Guide to initial RTO registration says the applicant remains responsible for the application, and that it is unlikely to approve generic or templated materials that don't reflect your own organisation. ASQA also publishes a Guide to Working with Consultants, and it can't recommend consultants, so it matters that you choose one with a proven record.
We help you save time, money and stress by building an application around how your organisation will really operate, and by preparing you for what ASQA will ask.
Ready to talk? Book a discovery call or phone 1800RTO101.
Are you ready to become an RTO?
Approximately two thirds of all RTO applications get rejected by ASQA.
Watch this video interview (13m 31s) with VET expert Angela McGregor to find out how to improve your chances of being approved first time round.
After watching the video, take our self-assessment to decide if you’re ready to go through the RTO registration process.
Considering starting an RTO?
Empower Your Educational Vision: A thoughtful book guide to initiating your RTO Journey. Navigate the essentials of starting a registered training organisation with insightful tips. You can either read the guide online or get the downloadable PDF version here.
Begin your educational endeavor with confidence.
Not sure if setting up an RTO is the right option for you or your business?
Don’t apply for RTO status without being well informed and prepared – that’s what we are here for.
Talk to us about your business and your goals and we will make sure you have the industry insights and information you need to make the right decision.
“I have to say, it has been the most stressful 18 months I have ever known trying to understand the registration process along with all the standards and conditions. I was lucky enough to be advised about Angela’s service and expertise in this area of compliance. After contacting her with a desperation she calmly spoke of others that are in the same position, so I did not feel so isolated and bewildered by the whole process.
I sent through the last audit report and she instantly identified the issues associated with the report and an action plan to implement.
Angela’s expertise and knowledge were extensive and I felt I could phone and ask any question relating to my RTO status without feeling intimidated or sometimes silly.”
- Carol Williams, Trendz Beauty and Training
FAQs
How do you set up an RTO in Australia?
Setting up an RTO involves registering with ASQA, Australia's regulatory body (to deliver nationally). You'll need to develop training and assessment strategies, training and assessment content, establish governance policies, demonstrate financial capacity, secure appropriate facilities, and employ qualified trainers and assessors. The process requires comprehensive documentation proving compliance with the VET Quality Framework.
How long does it take to become an RTO?
Becoming a registered RTO in Australia typically takes 6 to 12 months from application to approval. The timeline depends on how quickly you can prepare the supporting documents for your application. This includes but is not limited to policies and procedures, Training and Assessment Strategies, staff, training and assessment content and evidence of financial viability. ASQA’s processing times vary.
How much does it cost to set up an RTO?
Setting up an RTO typically costs $15,000 to $50,000+, depending on your circumstances. Expenses include ASQA application fees $7350, accountant fee, consultant fees (if used), technology infrastructure, training and assessment development, staff recruitment and training, and facility establishment. Larger organisations or multiple training locations can expect significantly higher costs. Read How to Set Up an RTO with ASQA.
What are the requirements to register as an RTO?
Key requirements include a clear plan as to how the business will be financially viable, who the training is for, the training products to be delivered and financial viability, qualified trainers and assessors with relevant qualifications, compliant policies addressing VET Quality Framework standards, training and assessment strategies, appropriate delivery and assessment facilities, quality assurance systems, and evidence of ability to manage student complaints and appeals effectively. Check out our RTO Readiness Checklist.
Do I need a consultant to set up an RTO?
While not mandatory, consultants are highly recommended. They navigate complex ASQA requirements, accelerate the registration process, provide templates that have been tested many times before, and reduce application rejection risks. With only 33.5% of initial applications for RTO status approved on the first attempt, its risky to try on your own .
Save time, money and stress with RTO Consulting
Find out how we can support you with your RTO setup
