This project will develop, pilot and evaluate a national VET model to improve Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) outcomes and support AMSA’s revalidation and recognition of current competency processes, to help accelerate the certification of Australian seafarers and address maritime workforce shortages.
Australia’s maritime industry is facing significant workforce challenges, including long certification lead times and a shrinking, ageing workforce. The Strategic Fleet initiative and broader maritime sector growth demand faster, more efficient pathways to recognise existing skills and qualifications.
The Revalidation and Recognition of Current Competence Model project supports Recommendation 9 of the Strategic Fleet Taskforce Final Report.
The project will focus on high-demand roles and promotes collaboration across government, industry, and training organisations.
This project aims to strengthen the national skills system by improving RPL outcomes and enabling faster certification of partially qualified seafarers to support establishment of the Strategic Fleet and to meet the needs of the broader industry.
Scoping Paper: Identifies critical elements for a national model that supports accessible, robust, and AMSA-compliant revalidation and recognition of current competency for seafarers.
Model Options Paper: Presents proposed model options for stakeholder consultation, review, and refinement.
National Model Development Paper: Documents the agreed national model developed in collaboration with maritime stakeholders.
Pilot Program Strategy and Implementation Plan: Details the design and rollout of a national pilot program, led by the National Maritime Skills Network and partners.
Trainer and Assessor Tools: Develops a suite of resources to support recognition of prior learning and effective model implementation.
Industry Skills Australia will collaborate closely with state-based RTOs, national skills agencies, maritime enterprises, unions, regulators, and the National Maritime Skills Network to ensure coordinated input throughout the project.
