The VET regulator is but a year into a reform process – the Australian National Audit Office is not entirely impressed 

The performance review of the Australian Skills Quality Authority reports it is “not yet fully effective in planning and implementing the reform to the regulation of the VET sector.”

Among numerous particulars, the ANAO urges ASQA to;

* align its corporate plan with the recommendations of last year’s rapid review of the agency

* improve its quality control

* improve its approach to regulatory risk management

* develop measures to assess performance against reform targets

ASQA agrees with all recommendations but responds that 12 months into a five-year programme it has a bit on and that, “it is of the view that the report continues to underplay the significant agency-wide response.”

ASQA management also recently addressed questions on a range of staffing issues in Senate Estimates, reported by Claire Field in CMM, June 9 here.

In early reaction Troy Williams from Independent Tertiary Education Council Australia said ANAO shows, “the process of transforming ASQA into a fully engaged, responsive and effective regulator that enjoys the support of the VET sector is very much a work in progress.”

However, Mr Williams added the authority, “has a genuine commitment to more fully engage with ITECA and membership.”