Operating requirements for group training organisations

To ensure that a high quality and viable group training network continues to be available, a group training organisation (GTO) recognised in Queensland must comply with:

• the requirements of its certificate of recognition as a GTO
• the National Standards for Group Training Organisations (PDF, 64KB) in accordance with Queensland audit arrangements for group training
• all Australian and state legislation, regulations, guidelines and policies including, but not limited to, companies, associations, employment, and vocational education and training
• all relevant Department of Employment, Small Business and Training's policies and procedures.

The GTO must adhere to:

• the intent and spirit of the Further Education and Training Act 2014 (the Act) and other relevant legislation
• obligations as the legal employer of the apprentices and trainees employed under contracts of training
• obligations, where applicable, under the Queensland Group Training Program performance and funding agreement
• the principles of sound corporate governance and financial management, and operate under the principles of accountability and transparency.

The GTO must ensure that:

• the board continues to meet and operate in accordance with its Articles of Incorporation or Articles of Association.

Recognised GTOs must also:

• agree to cooperate with any audit or evaluation program of the GTOs operations, which the department prescribes
• deliver relevant records, files and/or other documentation which the department requests for the purposes of conducting an audit or evaluation
• maintain board representation in accordance with its Articles of Incorporation or Articles of Association
• take all practical steps necessary to ensure the well-being and adequate training of apprentices and trainees employed by the GTO under the Act, including not engaging a prohibited employer, as defined under the Act, as a host employer
• have an apprenticeship and traineeship policy in place to ensure that the GTOs apprentices and trainees obtain the necessary range of skills (including a provision in the policy for rotation, as necessary)
• respond to any reasonable request for the department for information
• inform the department immediately of any matters that may significantly affect its ongoing operations and/or financial viability – the department will liaise with the chair of the GTOs board of directors on any matters that may have the potential to impact on the financial viability and/or capability of the GTO.

All GTOs recognised after 1 March 2003 are also required to be recognised by, and operate in accordance with, the Corporations Act 2001 (Cwlth). All existing GTOs not currently recognised by, and operating in accordance with, the Corporations Act, are encouraged to do so.

Last updated 2 February 2024