South Australian Skills Act Changes Explained: What Training Organisations Need to Know

From 1 July 2021, significant legislative changes introduced under the South Australian Skills Act (SAS Act) reshaped how training organisations operate. These reforms were designed with one clear goal in mind and that is to simplify processes, clarify responsibilities, and create a more flexible and transparent training system.

If you’re a training provider, employer, or stakeholder involved in apprenticeships and traineeships in South Australia, understanding these changes isn’t optional but essential. Let’s break it down in a clear, engaging, and practical way.

A New and Simplified Framework for Training Organisations

One of the most impactful outcomes of the SAS Act is the streamlining of administrative requirements. Previously, training organisations were required to submit training plans along with training contract applications. Under the new framework, this is no longer the case.

Now, the focus is on accountability, collaboration, and proper record-keeping, rather than excessive paperwork. Training plans still matter but how they’re managed has changed significantly.

The Shift from RTOs to Nominated Training Organisations (NTOs)

Under the South Australian Skills Act, Registered Training Organisations (RTOs) are now referred to as Nominated Training Organisations (NTOs).

This change is more than just a name update. It reflects a broader and more inclusive approach, allowing both:

• Registered Training Organisations, and
• Registered higher education providers

to be formally nominated under a training contract. This gives apprentices and employers greater flexibility when choosing suitable training providers.

Who Is Responsible for Developing the Training Plan?

The responsibility now sits clearly with the Nominated Training Organisation (NTO).

While the NTO is accountable for preparing the training plan, it must be developed in collaboration with both the employer and the apprentice or trainee. This ensures the plan is practical, relevant, and aligned with real workplace requirements.

Although the training plan no longer needs to be submitted with the training contract application, the NTO must:-

• Notify the South Australian Skills Commission once the plan is endorsed
• Maintain a copy for records
• Provide a final copy to both the employer and apprentice or trainee

This approach balances flexibility with accountability.

Updated Timelines for Training Plan Development

Once an NTO accepts a nomination, it has 28 days to prepare the training plan with all parties involved.

Most importantly:-

• The plan does not need to be sent to the Commission
• However, it must be retained and made available if requested

If completing the plan within 28 days isn’t feasible, NTOs can apply for an extension; provided the request is submitted at least five business days before the deadline.

Is the Training Plan Proforma Mandatory?

Yes, but with flexibility.

NTOs must work through the official training plan proforma and ensure the relevant sections are signed. However, details about training delivery can be recorded using alternative systems, such as a learner management system, as long as:-

• All required information is captured
• Records are properly maintained
• The employer and apprentice can track training progress

This allows organisations to modernise their processes without compromising compliance.

How Are NTOs Notified of a Nomination?

When a training contract application is lodged by Apprentice Connect Australian Providers (ACAPs), the nominated training organisation receives a notification via the ATLAS system.

From there, the NTO can:-

• Review the nomination
• Accept it through the ATLAS Portal

This ensures a smooth and transparent nomination process.

What Happens If a Training Plan Can’t Be Completed on Time?

If challenges arise, NTOs aren’t left stranded. An extension request can be submitted online through the Skills website, giving organisations room to manage legitimate delays without breaching compliance requirements.

Regular Reviews Are Still Mandatory

Training plans must be reviewed at least once every six months.

While these reviews don’t need to be submitted to the South Australian Skills Commission, NTOs must:-

• Keep evidence of each review
• Provide documentation if requested

Regular reviews help ensure training remains aligned with workplace needs and learner progress.

Acceptance of Nomination and the UAN Test

An NTO does not need to formally accept a nomination before an apprentice or trainee undertakes the Upfront Assessment of Needs (UAN) test.

• If the NTO hasn’t established a training account yet, it may still conduct the UAN
• If a training account exists, the nomination is considered accepted

This flexibility supports early assessments without administrative bottlenecks.

Managing Non-Attendance by Apprentices or Trainees

If an apprentice or trainee is not attending training, the NTO must first engage directly with:

• The employer
• The apprentice or trainee

If the issue continues and obligations under the training plan aren’t being met, the NTO is required to notify the South Australian Skills Commission through the designated online process.

Changes When Transferring to a New NTO

A transfer to a new Nominated Training Organisation requires:-

• A review of the existing training plan
• Formal notification to the South Australian Skills Commission

This ensures continuity and compliance throughout the training contract.

Penalties for Non-Compliance

Failure to meet obligations under the SAS Act can have serious consequences. For breaches related to NTO responsibilities:-

• The maximum penalty can reach $5,000
• The expiation fee is $315

These measures reinforce the importance of compliance and quality assurance.

Navigating Skills Compliance with Confidence

The South Australian Skills Act has brought clarity, flexibility, and accountability to the training ecosystem. While the administrative burden has reduced, the responsibility on training organisations has become more defined.

Understanding these changes and implementing them correctly is crucial for long-term compliance and operational success.

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