27 September 2023 MSF Training Package Update: New Transition for Select Furnishing Qualifications
To support students pursuing qualifications in interior design and furniture-related disciplines, the Australian Skills Quality Authority (ASQA) has taken an exceptional step by extending transition periods for specific qualifications within the furnishing training package (MSF). This significant MSF training package update goes beyond conventional standards and aims to benefit learners in these fields.
According to ASQA’s guidelines, applications for longer transition periods will only be considered when it is evident that a group of learners would face significant disadvantages without such an extension.
ASQA’s training update includes the following qualifications:
- MSF40118 – Certificate IV in Interior Decorating
- MSF50218 – Diploma of Interior Design
- MSF30113 – Certificate III in Furniture Finishing
- MSF30818 – Certificate III in Flooring Technology
- MSF31113 – Certificate in Cabinet Making
This extended transition period covers the training, assessment, and certification issuance, concluding on 31 January 2024.
MSF Training Package Update: Ensuring Student Success
This decision applies to students who began formal training or assessment on or before 7 and 20 December 2023. All students within this category must either complete their courses and receive certification or transition to an alternative training program before the new transition ends.
To ensure a comprehensive decision-making process, ASQA engaged in consultations with the Victorian Registration and Qualifications Authority and the Training Accreditation Council of Western Australia regarding the extension of this transition period. Additionally, ASQA sought input from Skills Insight and the Jobs and Skills Council, which holds operational responsibility for the MSF Furnishing Training Package.
For RTOs, if you’re offering these qualifications, they will remain available on your scope of registration until the extended transition period concludes. ASQA’s objective is to provide students with the necessary support to achieve success in their chosen fields of study.
7 March 2023 Latest MSF Training Package Update: ASQA Approves Transition Extension for MSF30418
The Australian Skills Quality Authority (ASQA) has approved the transition extension for the MSF30418 Certificate III in Glass and Glazing last 7 March 2023. This MSF training package update will now apply to currently enrolled students and will end on 31 July 2024.
The Standards for Registered Training Organisations 2015 empowers ASQA to approve transition periods longer than the usual set periods. This training update is in line with the rules set in the Guidance for Providers – Learner Transition, which states that ASQA can consider applications for transition extensions if students will be negatively affected by the non-approval of the deadline extension.
As a result, MSF30418 is now granted an extended training, assessment, and certification issuance for currently enrolled apprentices and will remain on RTOs’ scope of registration until the end of the extended transition period.
You can view other training package updates in Australia with current transition extensions via ASQA’s website.
What You Can Do About the Latest MSF Training Package Update
RTOs like you are crucial in ensuring a smooth transition for your students during training package updates. Here are proactive steps you can take:
- Communicate with your students: Promptly communicate all relevant information to your affected students. Inform them about the new training updates, their implications, and any action they need to take. Clear and transparent communication is key to avoiding confusion.
- Review your training and assessment plans: Thoroughly review your curriculum for the affected courses. Ensure your training materials and assessments align with the updated MSF training package. It may involve revising course content, assessment methods, and training resources.
- Support for affected students: Offer them guidance and support to complete their existing programs or transition to alternative training products as necessary. Explore and provide options for students needing to transition to the new. It could involve offering equivalent qualifications or guiding them toward courses that align with their career goals.
- Record keeping: Keep detailed records of all actions taken to comply with the transition updates. It includes documentation of student communications, curriculum revisions, and any consultations with relevant authorities.
- Regular updates: Stay informed about any further updates or guidance from ASQA or relevant authorities. Ensure your institution remains current with the latest information and complies with future changes.
