Air Conditioning and Refrigeration prepares experienced technicians to have their existing trade skills formally recognised through Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL). This pathway is suitable for individuals currently working in residential, commercial, or industrial HVAC&R environments who can demonstrate competency across installation, servicing, fault-finding, and compliance.
Through RPL, your on-the-job experience, overseas qualifications, and industry evidence are assessed against current Australian standards. Successful completion supports trade recognition outcomes, contractor licensing pathways (subject to state requirements), and improved employment mobility within the HVAC&R sector.
Complete the form with your details, chosen qualification, and a brief summary of your work experience.
We review your information and contact you to confirm your experience, role history, and the most suitable pathway.
You’ll receive a clear checklist of documents and workplace evidence required to support your application (tailored to your industry).
You provide your evidence and we check it for completeness and verification requirements before progressing it for assessment.
A qualified assessor from a partner RTO reviews your evidence and assesses it against the qualification requirements.
If additional evidence or gap tasks are needed, you’ll be advised on next steps. Where competency is met, the partner RTO finalises the outcome.
What is Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)?
Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) is an assessment process that may recognise the skills and knowledge you’ve gained through work, life experience, and previous training. If you can provide suitable evidence, a partner RTO may assess you against the requirements of a nationally recognised qualification
Who is eligible to apply for RPL?
You may be eligible if you have relevant, current experience in the role or industry related to the qualification you’re enquiring about. Eligibility depends on your work tasks, length of experience, and the evidence you can provide.
Do I need to study or attend classes?
RPL is not “training” and it does not involve standard classroom study. However, if gaps are identified during assessment, the partner RTO may require additional evidence, workplace tasks, third-party reports, or gap training before a qualification can be issued.
How does the RPL process work?
Typically, the process includes:
Who issues the qualification?
Nationally recognised qualifications can only be issued by a Registered Training Organisation (RTO). We are not an RTO—we provide guidance and help you prepare an application for assessment with our partner RTOs.
What evidence do I need to provide?
Evidence requirements vary by qualification, but may include:
How long does the process take?
Timeframes vary depending on how quickly documents are provided and the complexity of assessment. As a guide, many applications progress within several weeks once all required evidence is received, but partner RTO timelines and assessment requirements apply.
Is RPL guaranteed?
No. RPL is an evidence-based assessment. The partner RTO can only issue a qualification if you demonstrate competence against all required units. If evidence is insufficient, you may be offered alternative pathways (such as gap training) where available.
How much does RPL cost?
Fees vary depending on the qualification and the assessment requirements set by the partner RTO. After your eligibility check, we can provide current pricing and the next steps before you proceed.
Do I need a USI (Unique Student Identifier)?
Yes. A USI is generally required for enrolment and issuance of nationally recognised credentials in Australia. You may also be asked to provide your USI transcript from the USI portal.
Are photos and videos required?
This depends on the qualification and the type of work. For many trade/skills-based qualifications (e.g., automotive, engineering, cookery/hospitality, cabinet making), photos and short videos are commonly required to support competency evidence. We’ll advise what’s needed after your eligibility check.
Note: Evidence requirements vary by qualification and are confirmed during the eligibility review. You may not need every item listed above.
