Understanding the Difference: Training Packages vs. Accredited Courses

Author: Danielle Duncan MBA, B.Comm, Dip.VET, Dip.TDD, Dip.ProjMgmt, Dip.LeadMentor, Dip.RetailMgmt

When considering professional development in the animal training and behaviour industry, it’s important to understand the distinction between training packages and accredited courses. Although all vocational qualifications are taught by Registered Training Organisations (RTOs) and overseen by the Australian Skills Quality Authority (ASQA), there are some distinct differences.

What is an Accredited Course?

The Australian Government defines Accredited Courses as those being overseen by either vocational education managed by the Australian Skills Quality Authority (ASQA) or university-level courses overseen by the Tertiary Education Quality and Standards Agency (TEQSA). Courses or programs of study which are not accredited by neither body are considered to be unaccredited forms of Continuing Professional Development (CPD). While unaccredited courses may provide valuable skills and knowledge for professional advancement, they do not carry formal accreditation or contribute to nationally recognised qualifications. CPD courses serve as supplementary education, allowing professionals to stay current in their fields or acquire new competencies, but they are not equivalent to accredited programs that meet the regulatory standards set by TEQSA or ASQA.

Training Packages: A Nationally Standardised Approach

Training packages are a set of nationally endorsed standards, units of competency, qualifications and assessment guidelines that define the skills and knowledge required for employment in specific industries. They are developed by industry experts and government bodies and aim to ensure consistent standards across Australia. They are regularly updated to ensure they remain relevant to industry standards and technological advancements, and are regulated by ASQA.

The Certificate 4 in Animal Training and Behaviour, which aligns with WAFA’s accreditation, is an example of a qualification within the Animal Care and Management (ACM) Training Package.

The key benefits of training package qualifications include:

· Industry recognition: Employers and industry bodies recognise these qualifications.

· Consistent standards: Ensures quality and consistency in training and assessment.

· Career progression: Can lead to higher-level roles and further study.

· Broader delivery: Can be offered by any accredited Registered Training Organisation (RTO) meeting specific industry competency requirements.

Accredited Courses: A More Limited Scope

Where a gap exists in the current Training Package, independent organisations may apply to ASQA for permission to develop an Accredited Course. Accredited Courses, like the 225424C

Certificate III in Dog Behaviour and Training, are developed and assessed by private organisations in conjunction with a Registered Training Organisation (RTO) and are overseen by ASQA. While they can provide valuable training, their recognition and portability can be more limited.

Key considerations for accredited courses:

· Limited delivery: Often restricted to the course provider or their licensed partners.

· Varying quality standards: Quality can vary between pro4ders.

· Fewer career pathways: May not offer the same range of career opportunities as training package qualifications.

Once a Training Package duplicates the content covered in an Accredited Course, the Accredited Course can no longer exist. This is why the 10777NAT Diploma of Canine Training and Development is no longer offered.

Why WAFA Aligns with the Certificate 4

WAFA’s decision to align with the Certificate 4 in Animal Training and Behaviour reflects a commitment to raising industry standards, expanding career pathways, promoting ongoing learning, and supporting the growth of the animal care sector.

Certificate 4 in Animal Training and Behaviour requires a higher level of knowledge, practical skills, and competency, setting a rigorous standard for professionalism in the field. Unlike Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF) Level 3 qualifications, which prepare individuals for operational roles that require technical skills, Level 4 qualifications are aimed at equipping students with advanced competencies, critical thinking, and a sense of responsibility suitable for complex roles. By aligning with this qualification, WAFA ensures that professionals are not only well-trained but also capable of taking on leadership and supervisory responsibilities, ultimately enhancing the quality and credibility of animal training services.

Attaining the Certificate 4 in Animal Training and Behaviour opens up diverse employment opportunities across a range of settings. Graduates of this qualification gain skills and knowledge that prepare them for higher level functions in supervisory and management roles, and support individuals to develop and run their own business. The certification also acts as a bridge to higher-level roles, enabling individuals to pursue careers that require specialized training and an advanced understanding of animal behaviour and welfare.

Certificate 4 emphasises the importance of continuous professional development, encouraging trainers to pursue further learning and specialisation. This approach fosters a culture of lifelong learning in the industry, allowing trainers to continually enhance their skills, stay updated with best practices, and respond effectively to advancements in animal care, training techniques, and behaviour studies. Such a commitment to growth not only benefits individual trainers but also contributes positively to the broader animal welfare community.

By aligning with a nationally recognised qualification, WAFA actively contributes to the professionalization of the animal training and behaviour industry. The Certificate 4 ensures that a standardised level of expertise and skill is maintained across the sector, which is essential for the sustainable development of a skilled workforce. This alignment also reinforces WAFA’s role in shaping an industry that values quality, competence, and ethical practices, ultimately building trust and credibility with clients and stakeholders.

By choosing Certificate IV, WAFA is committed to supporting the growth and development of the animal training and behaviour industry, ensuring that professionals are equipped with the knowledge and skills to pro4de the best possible care for animals.

About the Author: Danielle “Dani” Duncan is a highly respected leader in Vocational Education and Training (VET), known for her expertise in instructional design, business coaching, and compliance. As founder of Learnivation Pty Ltd (RTO 45570), she has successfully guided numerous organisations through ASQA audits and led the design of TAFE Queensland’s Small Business Solutions qualification, impacting thousands of businesses across Queensland. With over a decade of experience, Dani has pioneered hybrid training models that blend traditional learning with Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) and clustered assessments, enhancing student experiences. She is also developing an innovative methodology, Skills Coaching, to improve student engagement and accountability. Her strategic approach and communication skills make her a key influencer in the VET sector, where she continuously drives quality and innovation.