TAF INDUCTION - Training Operations Manual

Annual TAF Proficiency

SLSQ requires all Trainer, Assessor and Facilitators [TAF] to complete a TAF Induction prior to commencing the surf season in the role as a trainer/ assessor and/or facilitator.

TAF’s must then complete a TAF Proficiency annually to stay current on all updates regarding our courses.
The annual TAF induction will include the following topics;

1. Education | Key Impacts and Updates

Standards for RTO’s – relevant updates
Credential Policy [TAE holders]

2. Skills Maintenance | ‘Current’ season

Theory and Practical Components
Aquatic Rescue Pathway Awards
Emergency Care Pathway Awards
Beach Management/ Award Member Pathway Awards
Powercraft Pathway Awards
Age Managers and Age Manager Assistants

3. TAE Overview for TAF’s – what can I train and assess?
4. TAF’s Education Obligations
5. Education & Region Key Contacts
6. Relevant Reference Links

What is VET and why do we need TAE?

Vocational Education and Training (VET) in Australia provides practical, skills-based education that prepares individuals for specific trades, professions, or careers. Delivered by Registered Training Organisation’s (RTOs), including TAFEs and private colleges, VET covers a wide range of industries—from healthcare and construction to business and hospitality.

The TAE40122 Certificate IV in Training and Assessment and/or its successor’s (commonly referred to as TAE) is the national qualification required to become a trainer and assessor in the VET sector. It ensures that educators have the skills and knowledge to effectively deliver training, assess competency, and maintain high standards of education.

Why do we need the TAE?

To maintain quality and consistency in training across the Vocational Education and Training [VET] sector.
To ensure trainers are competent educators, not just industry experts.
To meet national standards set by the Australian Skills Quality Authority (ASQA).
To equip trainers with the ability to assess learners against competency-based frameworks.
In short, the TAE is essential to ensure that VET students receive high-quality, industry-relevant training that leads to real employment outcomes.

Surf Life Saving Queensland is a Registered Training Organisation | RTO #2804

Standards for RTO’s 2025

Introduction to New RTO Standards – Effective 1 July 2025

As of 1 July 2025, new Standards for Registered Training Organisations (RTOs) have officially come into effect.
These updated standards aim to enhance the quality, integrity, and outcomes of vocational education and training (VET) across Australia.

As a Registered Training Organisation (RTO #2804), Surf Life Saving Queensland (SLSQ) is required to align with these changes to ensure ongoing compliance, maintain high training standards, and continue delivering nationally recognised qualifications.

Your role as a trainer is essential in supporting this transition and upholding the expectations set out in the revised standards.

For more information: www.asqa.gov.au/rtos/2025-standards-rtos

The New RTO Standards | 1 July 2025

Now Introduces: 4 Quality Areas:

QA-1 Training and Assessment

Ensures training delivery and assessment are industry-relevant, high-quality, and lead to valid outcomes.
Emphasises assessment practices, resources, training design, and validation.

QA-2 VET Student Support

Focuses on the student experience throughout the learning journey.
Covers access to information, enrolment processes, learning support, complaints, and feedback systems.

QA-3 VET Workforce

Targets the capability, qualifications, and professional development of trainers and assessors.
Encourages continuous improvement and industry currency.

QA-4 Governance

Concerns the management, accountability, and ethical operation of training providers.
Includes compliance systems, risk management, financial viability, and recordkeeping.

Trainer and Assessor Requirements

National Vocational Education and Training Regulator (Outcome Standards for NVR Registered Training Organisations) Instrument 2025.

Trainer and Assessor Competencies

Standard 3.2

Training and assessment is delivered to VET students by credentialled people with current skills and knowledge in training and assessment.

Standard 3.3

Training and assessment is delivered by persons with current industry skills and knowledge relevant to the training product.

The Surf Life Saving Queensland Member Training team manages all competency records held on file within our Learning Management System, aXcelerate, to support and maintain the obligations required of us as a Registered Training Organisation (RTO). This ensures the integrity, accuracy, and accessibility of training and assessment records in accordance with national compliance standards.

Should you have any questions regarding these requirements, please reach out to a member of our Member Training team via education@lifesaving.com.au