RPL Frequently Asked Questions

  1. Is it easier and cheaper just to enrol in the subjects?
  2. Is it difficult for me to apply for RPL?
  3. What is involved in the assessment process?
  4. If I need help at any time during the process, what can I do?
  5. Is study I completed many years ago okay as evidence for recognition?
  6. What if I can't find my old qualifications?
  7. Can I just show you my skills rather than have to locate my old qualifications?
  8. Can anyone apply for recognition?
  9. What will recognition cost?
  10. How long will the process take?
  11. If my application for recognition is unsuccessful, will I have to pay again if I enrol in the class?
  12. I want to migrate to Australia. What can I do to have my skills and knowledge recognised?
  13. I am in Australia on a 457 Visa. Can I apply for RPL or training here?
  14. Who can I contact for more information on RPL?
1. Is it easier and cheaper just to enrol in the subjects?
In most cases, applying for recognition will save you money because you do not have to pay resource fees. If you have gaps in your skills and need to attend classes, you will have to pay the necessary fees and charges.

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2. Is it difficult for me to apply for RPL?
No. You are supported throughout the RPL process by staff who are able to:
  • Provide you with information on the RPL process
  • Provide help in completing forms
  • Explain the costs involved
  • Discuss what you need to support your application.

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3. What is involved in the assessment process?
Once you and the assessor agree that you are eligible for the RPL process you will be required to gather evidence which proves your competence. Providing evidence may involve:
  • Answering questions about your work skills and experience
  • Demonstrating your skills and knowledge by completing practical tasks
  • Providing supporting evidence such as a resume, job description, references, workplace documents
  • This evidence must conf irm that you have shown competence over a period of time and you can work to industry standards
  • Where possible assessors carry out interviews in the workplace so you have access to workplace documents and it is easier for you to demonstrate your skills.

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4. If I need help at any time during the process, what can I do?
You can contact the assessor at any time to discuss the RPL process or to get help to gather supporting evidence.

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5. Is study I completed many years ago okay as evidence for recognition?
Yes, but you will need to show how you have applied and maintained the skills and knowledge over a period of time.

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6. What if I can't find my old qualifications?
Contact the organisation where you completed your studies as they may be able to provide you with a copy of your qualification. If this is not possible, you will need to demonstrate your competence in other ways which you can discuss with your assessor.

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7. Can I just show you my skills rather than have to locate my old qualifications?
Yes. You can demonstrate your skills and knowledge without having to present your qualifications.

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8. Can anyone apply for recognition?
Yes, anyone can apply for RPL.

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9. What will recognition cost?
Costs will depend on your individual circumstances. Recipients of certain Centrelink benefits and holders of concession cards may receive RPL at a reduced rate. All RPL clients save money by not having to pay resource fees or buy textbooks.

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10. How long will the process take?
This will depend on how much recognition you are applying for and how quickly you gather your evidence.

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11. If my application for recognition is unsuccessful, will I have to pay again if I enrol in the class?
Yes, your RPL application is the same as any enrolment. If you are unsuccessful and want to enrol in a class you will need to pay the required fees and charges again.

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12. I want to migrate to Australia. What can I do to have my skills and knowledge recognised?
If you are applying for a skills assessment to obtain an Australian visa, it is important you check with the Department of Immigration and Citizenship (DIAC) about their requirements for the visa you are applying for. This will ensure you apply for a skills assessment under the correct skills assessment program. Trade Recognition Australia (TRA) manages skills assessment services for people with trade skills who are Australian citizens, residents (both temporary and permanent) and potential migrants to Australia.

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13. I am in Australia on a 457 Visa. Can I apply for RPL or training here?
If you are the primary holder of a 457 Visa, you can apply for recognition and training, however the cost will be calculated on a commercial basis. If you are a secondary holder (eg. Spouse, partner, dependant) of a 457 Visa, you can apply for government subsidised recognition and training.

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14. Who can I contact for more information on RPL?
Career Development Services
9239 8066 or 9239 8189
rpl@challenger.wa.edu.au

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