The overarching principle of these good practice guidelines is that the same processes are applied to all short courses as for nationally accredited courses, as far as is possible to maintain quality and consistency, and they are simple and relatively straightforward.

Equity and access as well as quality and consistency of training will be maintained if, as far as is possible, the same processes are applied for short courses as for nationally accredited programs. The AQTF underpins the quality assurance process for all courses with a nationally recognised component. The course approval, curriculum documentation and evaluation processes in place for publicly funded programs should also be applied to privately funded short courses of this kind. This is also the case for the ‘compliance’ courses (which lead to licensing or certification), where the quality of the course is endorsed by a government or industry body.

Short course activities should not be overlooked in the review of internal quality processes. Short course activities should be integrated into all organisational policies (eg grievance procedures, evaluation, assessment).

A short course program underpinned by the AQTF and based on principles of continuous improvement encourages public confidence in the value of a VET short course.

The Registered Training Organisation must comply with relevant Commonwealth, state and territory legislation and regulatory requirements (refer AQTF Standards).