CHC Training Package Updates: Key Changes You Need to Know

Latest CHC Training Package Updates in Australia
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24 July 2024 CHC Training Package Update: Extended Transition Periods

ASQA recently approved an extended transition period for several CHC qualifications listed below:

Key things to note:

  • The transition period for CHC43115 Certificate IV in Disability has been extended from 31 July 2024 to 31 January 2025.
  • The transition period for the other CHC quals has been extended from 31 July 2024 to 31 December 2024.
  • The transition extension is applicable to currently enrolled students only.

12 December 2023 Latest CHC Training Update: Extended Transition for CHC33015

In a landmark development outlined in the latest community services training update, the Australian Skills Quality Authority (ASQA) has taken a proactive approach to support learners adapting to changes in the CHC33015 – Certificate III in Individual Support. This move underscores ASQA’s dedication to providing fair and high-quality training experiences.

In accordance with the Standards for Registered Training Organisations 2015, ASQA has approved an extension to the transition period for CHC33015, demonstrating a commitment to flexibility when learners face genuine disadvantages. This significant decision, made after careful consideration following the Guidance for Providers – Learner Transition, opens doors to enhanced learning experiences.

The extended transition period, adjusted from 31 July to 31 December 2024, has a broad impact, reaching all ASQA-regulated RTOs. However, it specifically caters to a unique group—secondary school students who commenced their training before 31 July 2024, and are slated to take their 2024 end-of-year school exams linked to CHC33015, as directed by the state/territory school authority.

To ensure a seamless transition, students falling within this category must either complete and receive certification or smoothly transition to replacement training products by the updated transition end date.

This latest CHC update not only highlights ASQA’s dedication to maintaining exceptional standards in vocational education and training but also signifies a responsive approach to the evolving needs of learners in the educational landscape.

ASQA’s thorough approval process for this extension involved dynamic collaboration with the Victorian Registration and Qualifications Authority and the Training Accreditation Council of Western Australia. Additionally, invaluable advice was sought from the Human Ability Jobs and Skills Council, emphasising a comprehensive and well-informed decision-making process.

 

18 August 2023 CHC Training Package Update: Extended Transition Period for CHC43115

The Australian Skills Quality Authority (ASQA) serves as the guardian of educational standards, overseeing Registered Training Organisations (RTOs) to ensure the delivery of high-quality education. The Standards for Registered Training Organisations 2015 lays out guidelines for transition periods, indicating the timeframe within which RTOs must adjust their programs to align with new qualifications or standards. However, in certain cases, ASQA can grant extended transition periods to safeguard learners’ interests.

According to ASQA’s “Guidance for Providers – Learner Transition,” these extensions are not just a formality. They are granted when there’s a demonstrated genuine need to prevent learners from being disadvantaged due to sudden qualification changes. This emphasises ASQA’s commitment to nurturing learners’ journeys, ensuring they have a fair chance to complete their education without undue disruption.

The most recent instance of such an extension involves a qualification within the Community Services (CHC) training package. The exact qualification affected by the update includes:

ASQA has extended the transition period for this qualification. This means that RTOs can continue offering enrolments in this program until the extended timeline concludes on 31 July 2024. But here’s the catch: all learners must either complete the CHC43115 qualification or transition to a replacement qualification by the end of this transition period.

This decision echoes ASQA’s understanding that education is not just about certificates and curricula; it’s about the learners themselves. By allowing RTOs ample time to align their courses with new standards, ASQA ensures that students aren’t caught off guard by sudden changes that could derail their educational pursuits. It’s a thoughtful balance between preserving educational excellence and protecting learners’ journeys.

Moreover, the CHC43115 Certificate IV in Disability qualification will continue to be a part of the RTO scope of registration throughout the extended transition period. This reflects ASQA’s intention to make the transition as seamless as possible for educators and learners alike.

 

24 July 2023 CHC Training Package Update: Extended Transition Period for CHC Qualifications

The Australian Skills Quality Authority (ASQA) has granted extended transition periods for specific CHC qualifications. This measure is a thoughtful response to challenges certain learner groups face due to previously set transition timelines.

The strategic move addresses challenges certain learner groups may have faced due to the previously established transition timelines.

Qualifications Covered in this Latest Community Services Training Update

Learners pursuing the following CHC Training Package qualifications will now have until 31 July 2024 to complete their studies:

  1. CHC40313 Certificate IV in Child, Youth and Family Intervention
  2. CHC40413 Certificate IV in Youth Work
  3. CHC40513 Certificate IV in Youth Justice
  4. CHC42015 Certificate IV in Community Services
  5. CHC50313 Diploma of Child, Youth and Family Intervention
  6. CHC50413 Diploma of Youth Work
  7. CHC52115 Diploma of Community Development
  8. CHC33015 Certificate III in Individual Support
  9. CHCSS00097 Individual Support Ageing Skill Set
  10. CHCSS00098 Individual Support – Disability Skill Set

However, the CHC52015 Diploma of Community Services‘ transition period deadline is 31 December 2024.

These qualifications open essential pathways for learners to venture into various opportunities within critical sectors, empowering them to influence the lives of individuals and communities alike significantly and positively.

Extended Transition Period to Benefit Learners and RTOs Delivering CHC Training Package

New and existing students can benefit from the extended transition period as training providers now have the flexibility to welcome fresh commencements while supporting current students.

This means learners who were previously uncertain about pursuing their desired qualifications due to time constraints can now pursue their dreams.

However, training providers must be vigilant during this period. Ensuring all students receive their qualifications or transfer to replacement qualifications before the new transition period ends is imperative. By doing so, learners’ hard work and dedication will be fully recognised and rewarded while maintaining the highest education standards throughout the extended period.

The ASQA’s decision to extend the transition periods for these CHC qualifications represents a pivotal moment in the educational landscape of Australia.

Learners from diverse backgrounds can envision a brighter future by acquiring the necessary skills and knowledge to serve their communities effectively.

This move also reflects ASQA’s commitment to promoting accessibility and inclusivity in the education sector. By considering the unique challenges learners face, ASQA fosters an environment where everyone can succeed, regardless of their circumstances.

 

3 July 2023 CHC Training Package Updates

The Community Services (CHC) training package in Australia has recently undergone minor updates, signalling the importance of staying current in the ever-evolving vocational education landscape. As an RTO, it’s essential for you to understand the implications of these updates for your training programs and the broader community services sector.

A Closer Look at the Updates

SkillsIQ, the industry authority responsible for maintaining training packages in Australia, has implemented changes to specific qualifications and skill sets within the CHC: Community Services training package. These RTO resources‘ updates aim to align training programs with industry needs, enhance learner outcomes, and address emerging trends in the community services sector.

Below are the updated qualifications and skill set under the CHC training update:

Updated Qualifications:

Qualification  Release Update 
CHC22015 – Certificate II in Community Services  3 to 4 
CHC34015 – Certificate III in Active Volunteering  4 to 5 

Updated Skill Sets:

Skill Set  Release Update 
CHCSS00114 – Entry into Care Roles Skill Set  3 to 4 

Implications for RTOS

As an RTO delivering community services training, it’s vital to understand the implications of these training updates for your organisation and learners. Consider the following points:

  1. Industry alignment: The updates to the CHC Community Services training package indicate a commitment to aligning training programs with industry standards and best practices. This alignment ensures that graduates possess the skills and knowledge needed to excel in their roles, contributing effectively to the community services sector.
  2. Quality assurance: Staying up to date with training package updates demonstrates your RTO’s commitment to delivering high-quality education and training. By incorporating the updated qualifications and skill sets into your training programs, you enhance the relevance and currency of your offerings, ensuring that learners receive industry-relevant skills and knowledge.
  3. Employer confidence: Employers in the community services sector value graduates who have received training aligned with the latest industry standards. By incorporating the updates in your programs, you enhance the employability of your learners and instil confidence in potential employers regarding the skills and knowledge your graduates possess.
  4. Enhanced learner outcomes: The updates to the CHC training package aim to improve learner outcomes by addressing emerging trends and industry needs. By incorporating these updates into your training programs, you can provide learners with the most relevant and updated skills, preparing them for successful careers in the community services sector.
  5. Continuous improvement: Embracing training package updates as an opportunity for continuous improvement allows your RTO to stay ahead of industry developments. Regularly reviewing and updating your training materials and resources ensures that your programs remain current, engaging, and responsive to the evolving needs of learners and the community services sector.

By understanding and considering the implications of these updates, your RTO can continue delivering high-quality training that meets industry needs, prepares learners for the workforce, and contributes to the growth and development of the community services sector.

 

24 April 2023 CHC Training Package Update: Record High Early Childhood Enrolments in South Australia as Government’s Restored CHC Training Package Proves Successful

In a significant win for early childhood education in South Australia, the enrolments in the CHC Training Package’s Early Childhood Education and Care Certificate III and Diploma courses have almost doubled since the government reinstated them at TAFE (Technical and Further Education) last year. This reinstatement is among the latest CHC updates, recognising the importance of building a skilled workforce for quality education in early childhood development.

Previously, removing CHC30113 Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care and CHC50113 Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care from TAFE SA had led to a shortage of qualified professionals in the field. Still, the current government’s decision to add them to the Fee-Free TAFE list has made these community services qualifications accessible to all, resulting in a surge in enrolments.

Blair Boyer, the Minister for Education, Training and Skills, reported a nearly 100% increase in enrolments, with 456 students enrolled in Semester 1 for 2023, compared to last year’s 276. This demonstrates the success of the training update made by the government in restoring these CHC Training Package courses at TAFE.

The government’s decision to provide free access to these CHC qualifications has opened opportunities for individuals to improve their knowledge and skills in early childhood education, benefitting the quality of education for young children in South Australia.

The success of the reinstated CHC Training Package in Australia courses is evidence of the government’s dedication to education and the future of early childhood development in South Australia.

4 March 2023 CHC Training Package Update

SkillsIQ recently completed a minor release for the CHC Community Services Training Package, which was published on training.gov.au.

While the changes made were insignificant enough to require re-endorsement, they are still noteworthy for those in the community services industry.

The recent CHC training package update added one qualification and revised two qualifications and one skill set.

The added Community Services qualification was CHC40113 – Certificate IV in School Age Education and Care, while CHC22015 – Certificate II in Community Services and CHC34015 – Certificate III in Active Volunteering qualification units were updated.

The CHC Training Package updates are vital to keeping up with the evolving needs and standards in the community services sector.

Here are the recent training updates:

Qualification Action
CHC40113 – Certificate IV in School Age Education and Care Added
CHC22015 – Certificate II in Community Services Updated from release 2 to release 3
CHC34015 – Certificate III in Active Volunteering Updated from release 3 to release 4
Skill Sets Action
CHCSS00114 – Entry into Care Roles Skill Set Updated from release 2 to release 3

RTOs must ensure that their training packages are up-to-date to comply with regulatory requirements, provide relevant training to industry needs, maintain their reputation, improve employment prospects for graduates, and enhance student satisfaction. Outdated training packages can result in graduates lacking the necessary skills and knowledge, making them less competitive in the job market and frustrating students who want to learn the latest industry practices and technologies.

CHC Community Services Training Package 9.1 RTOs must know

The CHC Community Services training package version 9.1 is now available on training.gov.au. This update includes deleting the Community Services qualification – CHC40113 – Certificate IV in School Age Education and Care, without a replacement on 30 December 2022. This is a minor change following the recent release of CHC version 9.0.

The removal of CHC40113 from the CHC Training Package, which is designed for individuals who work in school age education and care settings, does not mean that the School Age Education and Care field is no longer available for study or career opportunities.

Check out training.gov.au for more details about the CHC training package version 9.1.

Keeping Up with Industry Standards

The ever-evolving nature of industries requires continuous updates to training packages to ensure that they align with the current skill requirements of the industry.

The Australian Skills Quality Authority (ASQA), in its post, When Training Products Change, underscored that Industry Reference Committees (IRC), responsible for regularly reviewing and updating the training packages to keep pace with the industry demands, want to ensure that individuals who undertake these training courses receive the most current and relevant education, preparing them for success in their chosen fields.

Sometimes, the industry needs to determine more demand for a specific qualification to justify keeping it. As a result, the qualification is removed without being replaced by another, such as Community Services qualification CHC40113 – Certificate IV in School Age Education and Care.

Other CHC Training Package Updates for RTOs

Besides the recent update, the Community Services Training Package has undergone recent changes in the CHC version 9.0. To ensure you are aware of all the changes, here are the Community Services qualifications and units of competency that have been affected:

Qualifications

Superseded  Updated  Equivalency 
CHC51115 – Diploma of Financial Counselling  CHC51122 – Diploma of Financial Counselling  Not Equivalent 

Units of Competency

Superseded  Updated  Equivalency 
CHCFIN001 – Facilitate the financial counselling process  CHCFIN006 – Establish the financial counselling relationship  Not Equivalent 
CHCFIN002 – Identify and apply technical information to assist clients with financial issues  CHCFIN007 – Provide advice, counselling and representation to financial counselling clients  Not Equivalent 
CHCFIN003 – Develop and use financial counselling tools and techniques  CHCFIN008 – Apply professional standards in financial counselling  Not Equivalent 
  CHCFIN009 – Provide financial counselling and systemic advocacy within a social justice framework   
  CHCFIN010 – Apply basic concepts of small business to financial counselling   
CHCFIN004 – Provide rural financial counselling services  CHCFIN011 – Provide rural financial counselling services  Equivalent 

Click here for more updates on the CHC Training Package.

What RTOs Can Do Moving Forward?

As an RTO, addressing current updates on the Community Services Training Package to adhere to current industry regulations and standards. Keep in stride with the latest CHC learning resources, training packages, and other industry updates via the training.gov.au website.

With the recent updates on the CHC Training Package, you can first inform your trainers and staff about the discontinuation of the CHC40113 – Certificate in School Age Education and Care qualification from the CHC training package on TGA.

Your students who are currently enrolled in the program must complete it and receive their certificates within two years of its removal. Otherwise, you can assist them in looking for other options and help them with the transition by transferring them to another endorsed Community Services Training Package qualification or a relevant alternative before the deadline.

However, the feasibility of transferring students to an alternative CHC Training Package qualification will depend on various factors, such as how close each student is to completing the Community Services course. The priority should be to determine what option is best for the student. If finishing the current Community Services qualification is the best option for the student, your RTO must ensure that all training, assessment, and certification are completed within two years of the qualification being removed from the training package.

Revise your CHC learning resources or acquire new resources from trusted RTO training material providers and developers for alternative Community Services qualifications. Evaluate your training and assessment strategy, examine your course outline and delivery plans, and identify improvement areas.

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7 December 2022 CHC Training Package Update: Aged Care, Disability Care, and Direct Client Care Project Update

The landscape of CHC qualifications experienced a change on 7 December 2022, as SkillsIQ decided to retract CHC43021 Certificate IV in Ageing Support from listing on training.gov.au. This choice followed its accidental inclusion alongside the other 2021 CHC qualifications. It’s important to note that CHC43015 Certificate IV in Ageing Support remains valid for Registered Training Organizations (RTOs).

Upon reaching out to Melinda Brown, the general manager of SkillsIQ, confirmation was received that the release of CHC43021 was indeed an oversight, leading to its swift removal from the training.gov.au platform. Furthermore, clarification was provided that the 2021 version of the Certificate IV in Ageing Support is pending endorsement and approval from the Skills Ministers.

Considering the delays that have arisen during the endorsement and approval process for CHC43021 Certificate IV in Ageing Support, a decision has been made to exclude this qualification from inclusion in the forthcoming Industry Cluster. While specifics about the anticipated VET system reform set for January 2023 are currently unavailable, its operational rollout is on the horizon.

Despite these occurrences, SkillsIQ has chosen not to communicate any public statements or observations regarding the withdrawal of CHC43021 Certificate IV in Ageing Support.

In summary, the modifications pertinent to the 2021 CHC qualifications are as follows:

Superseded Qualifications  New Qualifications  Status 
CHC33015 Certificate III in Individual Support  CHC33021 Certificate III in Individual Support  Not Equivalent
CHC43015 Certificate IV in Ageing Support     
CHC43115 Certificate IV in Disability Support  CHC43121 Certificate IV in Disability Support  Not Equivalent

Check Out the Latest CHC Training Resources Here

 

24 November 2022 CHC Training Package Update

With the advent of 24 November 2022, a significant juncture has been reached as the much-awaited CHC Community Services qualifications and units are unveiled on training.gov.au. We take great pride in proclaiming ourselves as one of the trailblazers – quite conceivably the absolute first – to have them primed and ready for deployment! These revisions will effectively supplant the versions dating back to 2015. Training providers are allotted a span of 12 months to effectuate the transition from the erstwhile courses to the freshly introduced ones.

It is crucial to note that the three qualifications ushered in during 2021 are not equivalent to the superseded ones. Substantial revisions have been undertaken to mirror the shifts in industry expectations. Should your institution aspire to offer the latest iteration of these Community Services courses, it becomes imperative to initiate the process of re-application for accreditation.

The changes are as follows:

Superseded Qualifications  New Qualifications  Status 
CHC33015 Certificate III in Individual Support  CHC33021 Certificate III in Individual Support  Not Equivalent 
CHC43015 Certificate IV in Ageing Support  CHC43021 Certificate IV in Ageing Support  Not Equivalent
CHC43115 Certificate IV in Disability Support  CHC43121 Certificate IV in Disability Support  Not Equivalent 

RTOs are advised to capitalise on this period to confirm that all students who are presently enrolled in the outdated versions of the Individual Support, Ageing Support, and Disability Support courses are granted ample time to finalise their studies before the transition deadline transpires.

With the recent updates to the CHC training products now in place, the most prudent course of action for RTOs and other training providers is to chart out a meticulous project plan to facilitate a smooth transition process. Take proactive measures to ensure your RTO’s capability to navigate the forthcoming changes by procuring the latest training materials at your earliest convenience.

Check Out the Latest CHC Training Resources Here

 

21 July 2021 CHC Training Package Update

The 2021 CHC Child Care and Education Support qualifications are published on training.gov.au, superseding the 2013 and 2015 versions.

There is a one-year teach-out period to give current students enrolled in the 2013 and 2015 courses enough time to complete their training. RTOs are highly encouraged to transition ahead of the deadline to avoid compliance issues once the deadline is up.

Keep reading to learn more about this latest update and what it means for your RTO.

20 April 2021 CHC Training Package Update

The updates to the CHC Community Services training package concerning Children’s Education and Care have been approved and will move forward. They will now be endorsed to the Ministers.

All the changes approved in the latest meeting include the deletion of Certificate IV in School Age Education and Care. The removal of prerequisites from two units in the Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care and retaining the proposed entry requirement to the Diploma of Early Childhood Education and Care.

The AISC has also agreed to the development of resources to support RTOs to undertake Recognition of Prior Learning for students with experience in the sector or other education-related qualifications who do not meet the entry requirement to the Diplomat of Childhood Education.

The Committee has already approved research to be commissioned to examine the impact of the Certificate III entry requirements on the Diploma on Diploma enrolment/completion over the next 18-24 months.

For those looking for the latest CHC qualifications, check out our product pages here:

 

14 April 2021 CHC Training Package Update

The 2 qualifications from the CHC Community Services (Children’s Education and Care) training package, which were not approved last February, will be resubmitted for endorsement at the April 20th Australian Industry Skills Committee (AISC) meeting.

If the qualifications are approved, we can expect those to be published on training.gov.au within the next month or so.

In the latest AISC Meeting held last 23 February 2021, the Committee, the Case Endorsement for the Children’s Education and Care update was not fully approved.

Out of the six qualifications sent for approval, only four were approved, and the two will be sent back to SkillsIQ for further revisions. The last two qualifications are planned to be resubmitted to the AISC for approval.

For those delivering training in the Early Childhood Education and Care sector, it’s pertinent to keep abreast of the latest in the training package. Read on to learn more about what the latest CHC training package update entails.

A Quick Overview of Updates to Early Childhood Education and Care Qualifications

The following qualifications and their associated 65 units of competency in the Children’s Education and Care Sector were up for review:

The AISC recently announced that the following qualifications are “in-principal approved”, which means the Committee has signed off on the qualifications.

However, two qualifications were not approved by the Committee and are subject to resubmission. These qualifications will be reviewed by relevant stakeholders and the Industry Reference Committees (IRC) to meet the issues raised during the meeting.

The publication of the four approved qualifications will be delayed until the CHC50121 and CHC40121 qualifications are completed.

The AISC will consider meeting out of session to discuss the Early Childhood Education and Care update if required. The goal is to approve the two remaining qualifications so the training package can be endorsed and published on training.gov.au in a timely manner.

 

What Does this Mean for RTOs?

For now, the release of the latest CHC training package is put on hold. Those with the current training materials for the qualifications mentioned above and their related units of competency are still able to deliver training and be compliant with Australian Skills Quality Authority (ASQA) standards.

However, a lot of students are already holding off enrolling on the affected qualifications due to future upgrades. If your RTO wants to take advantage of the growing demand for the latest courses, they must act quickly and adapt to the changes just as fast.

The best thing for RTOs to do right now is to have a transition plan ready once the new qualifications are officially published on training.gov.au. You can do this by securing your training materials as early as now.

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