In a move that benefits aspiring fashion designers, the Australian Skills Quality Authority (ASQA) has granted an extended transition period for a range of qualifications in the textiles, clothing and footwear – MST training package. The decision, made per the Standards for Registered Training Organisations 2015, comes as a lifeline for learners and registered training organisations.
Following the guidelines for Learner Transitions, ASQA will only approve requests for extended transition periods if it’s clear that not granting the extension would truly disadvantage a group of students.
So, which qualifications are affected by this MST training update? ASQA has greenlit an extended transition period for the following courses:
- MST20616 – Certificate II in Applied Fashion Design and Technology
- MST30819 – Certificate III in Applied Fashion Design and Technology
- MST40119 – Certificate IV in Textile Design, Development and Production
- MST50119 – Diploma of Applied Fashion Design and Merchandising
- MST60119 – Advanced Diploma of Applied Fashion Design and Merchandising
The crucial date to remember is 31 January 2025. This is when the extended training, assessment, and certification issuance period for these qualifications will come to an end. This extension is applicable to students who have embarked on their fashion design journey on or after 20 December 2023, which was the original transition end date. To comply with ASQA’s decision, all students must either complete their qualifications or be transferred to the replacement courses by the new transition end date.
ASQA didn’t make this call in isolation; they consulted with the Victorian Registration and Qualifications Authority and Training Accreditation Council Western Australia during the deliberation process. These qualifications will also remain within the registered training organisation’s (RTO) scope of registration throughout the entirety of the extended transition period.
This decision promises to provide more time and flexibility for students pursuing careers in fashion design, allowing them to achieve their qualifications with the support they need.
Navigating the Change: What’s Next for RTOs
RTOs affected by the MST training changes and ASQA-approved extended transition period for the mentioned qualifications can take several actions to adapt and support their students during this period:
- Update Training Materials: RTOs should review and update their course materials, ensuring they align with the extended transition period requirements. It may involve revising training resources, assessment materials, and delivery methods to accommodate the extra time available.
- Student Communication: RTOs must communicate the changes to their students effectively. They should inform current and prospective learners about the extended transition period or the latest changes, implications, and available options. Clear and timely communication is crucial to avoid confusion.
- Quality Assurance: RTOs must maintain the quality and integrity of their training and assessment processes throughout the transition period. They should continue to meet the required standards and ensure that students receive a high-quality education.
- Monitoring and Reporting: RTOs should establish monitoring mechanisms to track students’ progress affected by the changes. Regular reporting to ASQA or relevant authorities may be necessary to demonstrate compliance and provide updates on student outcomes.
- Compliance: RTOs must remain in compliance with all ASQA regulations and requirements. It includes maintaining accurate records, adhering to assessment and validation processes, and ensuring trainers and assessors are appropriately qualified and experienced.
- Transferring to Replacement Qualifications: RTOs should help students understand their options for transitioning to replacement qualifications, if applicable. RTOs should assist students with the transfer process and provide student support services to help learners successfully transition to the new course.
