There are a number of reasons why the registration of a training organisation may cease, such as:

• the period of registration expires
• the registered training organisation (RTO) wishes to cease its operation

• non-compliance with the AQTF Essential Conditions and Standards for Initial Registration; and the AQTF Essential Conditions and Standards for Continuing Registration, and/or relevant Australian, state and territory government legislation.

If an organisation ceases to operate as an RTO, hard copies of student records, including awards/statements of attainment and a list of competencies/modules achieved by individuals must be sent to the relevant state or territory registering authority.

Registration expiry

If an RTO does not renew its registration before the registration period expires, its RTO status will cease. Should an organisation wish to continue its registration, it must apply to the relevant registering authority for renewal of registration within their prescribed timeframe.

Once expired, a training organisation cannot advertise it is an RTO, or issue any qualifications or statements of attainment to students.

Voluntary cessation

An RTO may apply to the relevant registration authority to withdraw its registration at any time.

An RTO ceasing its activities must ensure that all continuing students are not disadvantaged.  It must:

• liaise with the relevant registering authority to ensure current students complete their training and assessment elsewhere
• arrange for student records to be transferred to the new training provider.

Non-compliance

Registration may be revoked if an RTO has not complied with:

• The AQTF Essential Conditions and Standards for Continuing Registration
• the guidelines set by the registering authority
• any conditions placed on its registration.

In this event, the registering authority will formally notify the RTO in writing of the intention to revoke or suspend its registration.

When registration is revoked, an RTO has to formally re-apply for registration to the appropriate registering authority. For more information see AQTF National Guidelines for a Registering Body (PDF, 158kb).

Selling or transferring the business

Registration is not transferable. When an RTO sells or otherwise transfers its business to another person or corporation, the registration does not transfer to that person or corporation. The new owner of the training organisation is required to apply for re-registration. The process will include an audit and payment of a fee. This is the case even if two existing RTOs merge to create a new entity.

Each state or territory has its own procedure. Please use the links to the right to find out the specific procedures that apply to you.