Season 5 · Episode 35
First-Hand Experience: RTO Initial Registration in the 2025 Standards Era
Drawing from combined experience with seven initial registration audits under the new standards, Angela and Maycheck reveal a fundamental shift in ASQA's approach. Auditors are now prioritising the "tell and show" method.
17 September 202523 min

Listen to this Episode
Available on all podcast platforms
Show Notes
- Meeting in Darwin to discuss audits under the new standards
- New focus on implementation and understanding over documentation
- Document preparation for audits: contextualising purchased materials
- Accountability and delegation in RTOs
- ASQA's approach to applications and outcome-focused assessment
- Conflict of interest and risk management considerations
- Preparation advice for initial registration
- Avoiding AI pitfalls and final advice
Key Takeaways
- Auditors prioritise "tell and show"—explain your implementation strategies
- Understanding of compliance obligations carries more weight than perfect policies
- Auditors compare verbal explanations against submitted documentation
- Contextualise any purchased materials and test assessment tools
- Read the standards thoroughly and understand your obligations
Resources Mentioned
- Initial Registration Checklist
- Audit Preparation Guide
Listen On
More Episodes
Continue exploring RTO compliance topics

7 January 2026
Accountability Beats Paperwork: Evidence-Driven Leadership For Stable RTOs
Compliance doesn't live in a policy folder; it lives in leadership. We dive into the shift to outcome standards and show why executives must own decisions, track actions, and bring evidence to every review.
Listen Now
14 January 2026
Building A Strong RTO Compliance Chain Across Roles
Clear roles create clear compliance. Learn how to assign and track responsibilities.
Listen Now
21 January 2026
Compliance Lives Where Learner Support Starts
Learner support isn't just pastoral care—it's the foundation of compliant training delivery.
Listen Now