What is the Australian Qualifications Framework?

The AQF covers all three education sectors in Australia: the School Sector, VET Sector, and the Higher Education (University) Sector.  The framework establishes and identifies qualification levels.  Eight of these relate to VET and are shown in the middle column of the diagram below.

  Source: AQF Implementation Handbook (Fourth Edition, 2007).

Training Packages, such as CPP07 Property Services Training Package and CPC08 Construction, Plumbing and Services Training Package, specify the combination of units of competency required to achieve a particular qualification.  Learners who complete some, but not all, units for a qualification are awarded a statement of attainment.  When they are assessed as competent in the remaining units, they attain the qualification.

In broad terms, AQF 1 equates to Certificate I, AQF 2 to Certificate II, and so on.  The AQF provides the characteristics, distinguishing features and criteria for each qualification level to ensure consistency across sectors and from one qualification to the next.  It also establishes the principles for the issuing of qualifications by RTOs.  Under the AQF, a learner can start at the level that suits them, and them build up as their needs and interests develop and change over time.

The framework assists learners to plan their career progression regardless of their life stage or location, by supporting movement across the sectors and encouraging lifelong learning.  The diagram shows that the schools sector aligns with the VET sector from the Certificate I to III levels, and that the VET sector aligns with the university sector from the Diploma level updwards.  This is important for people seeking recognition of skills and learning.  For example, a learner wishing to undertake a course of study at university, may obtain recognition and some credit for a Diploma or Advanced Diploma qualification obtained in the VET sector.  Likewise, through the VET-in-Schools program, some Certificate I and II qualifications can be commenced by learners while still in secondary school.

New Australian Qualifications Framework   

A new AQF was introduced in July 2011.  It aims to define the relative complexity and depth of achievement as well as the autonomy required of graduates to demonstrate that achievement.  This is done by 

To gain a better understanding of the new AQF, download the publication Australian Qualifications Framework, First Edition July 2011.

For more details on the AQF, visit the AQF website at www.aqf.edu.au