SA Skills Commission enforces trade training requirements

Based on data submitted by Registered Training Organisations (RTOs) to the National Centre for Vocational Education Research (NCVER), the Commission reports that in 2024, more than 4,000 qualifications declared as trades in South Australia were commenced institutionally, outside of formal apprenticeship arrangements.

Institutional-based trade training does not provide the safeguards offered under a formal training contract. 

Individuals in trades are exposed to high-risk work environments, requiring technical training and higher levels of supervision.

The formal apprenticeship model ensures apprentices are safe on the job, are paid for their work, have a structured training plan, and are appropriately supervised on the worksite by an employer registered with the Commission.

As the state’s independent regulator overseeing apprenticeships and traineeships, to address this, the Commission has applied an amnesty until 30 January 2026 for new institutional enrolments in South Australia.

From 31 January 2026, any RTO that issues a new enrolment that:

• is in a qualification declared a trade under the Act; and
• is delivered in South Australia outside of a training contract,

will be subject to a $315 expiation fee per case and, where applicable, penalties of up to $5,000.

This measure ensures individuals enter the workforce from the commencement of their training through the proven ‘earn and learn’ apprenticeship pathway.

From 31 January 2026, affected learners will be able to complete their qualification and apply to the Commission for a skills assessment under the Occupational Recognition Service. Where they meet the required standards, the Commission will issue an Occupational Certificate, recognised by industry.

The Commission is working closely with industry partners and RTOs to enforce strict compliance and ensure learners are certified and protected through recognised apprenticeship pathways.

Cameron Baker, Chair of the South Australian Skills Commission, said: “The South Australian Skills Act exists to ensure that every South Australian undertaking a qualification aligned to a trade receives training that meets consistent and regulated standards required under a training contract, ensuring learners are safe and become productive workers in critical trade sectors.”

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