
Risk Management – A Key Focus for RTOs
In the ever-evolving landscape of the VET sector, the revised (draft) Standards for RTOs have introduced a crucial Focus Area: Risk Management, stipulating that risk related to VET students, staff, and the RTO must be identified and managed effectively.
This risk management system also extends to managing:
✅conflicts of interest
✅ensuring the safety and wellbeing of VET students under 18 are aligned with the child-safe principles
✅ensure the ongoing suitability and safety of facilities, resources, and equipment provided by the RTO and third parties
✅risks associated with work-integrated learning, work placements, or other community-based learning.
💡 What does this mean for RTOs?
The benefits of a detailed risk management process are numerous:
➡️Early identification of potential issues
➡️Proactive measures to address potential threats
➡️Minimisation of financial losses
➡️Safer work environment
➡️Protection of reputation and prevention of reputational damage
➡️Increased confidence and resilience within the organisation
➡️Improved employee engagement and staff retention
➡️More strategic planning and informed decision-making
➡️Enhanced communication
📢 The forecasted date of the release of the revised Standards for RTOs is mid-2025, but now is the time to start preparing.
As the new (draft) Standards for RTOs emphasise a whole-of-organisation approach to risk management, Harris Styles provides staff professional development (PD) on risk management specifically relevant for your RTO. For more information, please contact us at margaret@harrisstyles.com.au or call 0418 102 045.