What is the Process of RPL in Australia? | Recognition of Prior Learning Explained
If you’re a skilled worker with hands-on experience but no formal qualification, you might be wondering how to get your skills recognized in Australia. This is where RPL – Recognition of Prior Learning – comes in.
What is RPL (Recognition of Prior Learning)?
RPL (Recognition of Prior Learning) is an official assessment process that allows you to turn your work experience, skills, and knowledge into a nationally recognised qualification — without needing to study the course from scratch.
This is especially useful for:
- Migrants with international work experience
- Tradespeople without formal Australian certificates
- Workers changing careers or applying for skilled visas
How Does the RPL Process Work in Australia?
Here’s a simplified step-by-step guide to how the RPL process typically works:
1. Initial Consultation
You’ll speak with an RPL consultant or Registered Training Organisation (RTO) to:
- Discuss your career background
- Understand your goals (e.g. visa, job promotion, qualification)
- Determine which qualification best matches your experience
2. Skills Review & Evidence Collection
You’ll be asked to provide evidence of your work experience and skills, such as:
- Resume or CV
- Reference letters from employers
- Photos/videos of your work
- Job contracts or pay slips
- Industry licenses or certificates
- Work samples or portfolios
3. Competency Assessment
Qualified assessors from an RTO will review your documentation and may:
- Call you for a phone or video interview
- Ask for work demonstrations or practical assessments
- Request additional supporting documents
4. Receive Your Qualification
If you meet the requirements, you’ll be awarded a nationally recognised Australian qualification, such as:
- Certificate III in Carpentry
- Certificate IV in Automotive Mechanical Diagnosis
- Diploma of Leadership and Management
- And many more…
This certificate is the same as someone who studied the course, and it can be used for:
- Job applications
- Promotions
- Licensing and registrations
- Immigration and visa applications
How Long Does RPL Take?
The RPL process can take anywhere from 2 to 6 weeks, depending on:
- How quickly you provide evidence
- The qualification you’re applying for
- Your assessor’s availability
What Does RPL Cost in Australia?
The cost varies depending on the course and RTO, but generally:
- Certificate-level qualifications: AUD $1,000–$2,500
- Diploma/Advanced Diploma: AUD $2,500–$4,000+
Many RTOs offer flexible payment plans to help you spread out the cost.
Final Thoughts: Is RPL Worth It?
Absolutely! If you’ve built your skills through years of hands-on work but don’t have the paper to prove it, RPL is a smart, fast, and affordable way to gain a formal qualification in Australia. It helps you stand out in the job market and opens doors for career growth, visa applications, and industry licensing.
