Fire Systems Design Project

Higher Level Qualifications for Fire Systems Design

A project is nearing completion to develop higher level qualification for fire systems design. The qualifications and units of competency that have been developed will be added to the CPC08 Construction, Plumbing and Services Integrated Framework Training Package. The provision of nationally recognised, high quality, qualifications in fire systems design will help overcome skill shortages in the industry, attract new entrants and also enable the recognition of skilled experienced practitioners who may not currently hold a qualification.

Background to the Project

The design of fire systems prior to this project was not covered by any formal national competency-based qualifications. There is a shortage of people with skills and experience in fire systems design. This shortage is recognised by both the national industry associations with coverage in this area - the National Fire Industry Association (NFIA) and the Fire Protection Association of Australia (FPAA) – who are supporting the project and working with CPSISC to ensure a positive outcome for the industry.

Project Outcomes

The extensive consultation and development process has led to the finalisation of units of competency and qualifications at both the Diploma and Vocational Graduate Certificate level. The endorsed materials and the revised Training Package in which they are contained will be available following the formal endorsement by the National Quality Council (NQC). This webpage will keep you up to date with the final endorsement process.

Currently, the finalised documentation is being shared with the State Training Authorities for review prior to submission to the NQC – a process that is scheduled to occur in March 2009.

First drafts of the units of competency and qualifications were made available for comment via this website during 2008. Comments received to the first drafts were used to inform the development of the second drafts that were also made widely available through this website as part of the validation process. The Project Steering Committee met during December 2008 to finalise the content of the new qualifications and units of competency which have subsequently been undergoing final editing. The endorsement of new or reviewed Training Package content requires the production of reports from an editor, equity consultant and a holistic Training Package quality assurance consultant drawn from a nationally approved panel. This process is designed to ensure the robustness and quality of the products. All these reports have now been received.

Project Steering Committee

The Project Steering Committee (PSC) that has overseen the project represents all key industry players and other stakeholders. The PSC has played a vital role in overseeing the project and providing expert industry input and providing access to industry practitioners and other stakeholders. 

For more information contact the project manager, david.magee@cpsisc.com.au