Thinking about buying an RTO? Before you sign the dotted line, make sure you’re not buying into a compliance nightmare.
Buying a Registered Training Organisation (RTO) can be a smart investment — if done right. But with Australia’s strict regulatory environment, it’s not just about getting a good price. It’s about protecting yourself from hidden risks, lost records, or worse — non-compliance with ASQA that could shut you down.
Here’s a simple, practical due diligence checklist every RTO buyer should follow (and yes, it includes all the things most people forget — like ASQA’s 90-day notification rule!).
Why Due Diligence Matters When Buying an RTO
Due diligence is like your pre-purchase inspection — for training providers. It’s your way of making sure the RTO:
- Is compliant with ASQA’s standards
- Has no hidden legal or financial issues
- Has quality training and assessment resources
- Is ready to hand over the reins — clean and compliant
The Simple RTO Due Diligence Checklist (For Non-CRICOS RTOs)
Here’s what you must check before taking over:
1. Compliance and Registration
- ASQA notified 90 days in advance of ownership change
- Completed Self-Assessment Tool ready for ASQA review
- Scope of registration is current (check https://training.gov.au/)
- No current sanctions, suspensions or conditions from ASQA
- All third-party agreements are compliant
2. Training & Assessment
- Are Trainers & Assessors properly qualified? (Check against the Credential Policy)
- Do they have supervision arrangements if “working towards” a TAE?
- TAS (Training & Assessment Strategies) are updated and contextualised
- Validation and industry consultation records are available
- Training resources are mapped and aligned with units of competency
3. Student Records & Support
- Student files are complete: USI, ID, enrolment, assessment
- Student support services are documented
- Complaints and appeals are tracked and resolved
- AVETMISS data submitted on time
- Student surveys are collected and acted upon
4. Certification & Records
- AQF certificates issued correctly within 30 days
- Records of certifications issued are retained
- Assessment evidence is stored securely (min 2 years)
- All admin systems (SMS, LMS) are active and auditable
5. Financials & Governance
- Financial statements (3 years) and budgets available
- Passes the Financial Viability Risk Assessment
- Public liability insurance is current
- CEO’s annual declaration submitted
- Lease agreement and premises documentation secured
Bonus Tip: Ask for These Documents Too
✔️ Latest ASQA audit report
✔️ Internal audit results
✔️ Trainer PD logs
✔️ Marketing material (check for non-compliant claims)
✔️ Website NRT logo compliance
Want It Done for You?
We’ve created a free fillable checklist in Word formats — complete with built-in checkboxes and pre-filled tasks to keep you on track.
👉 Download the RTO Due Diligence Checklist
Need help with the ASQA submission or want an expert to audit the RTO for you?
📞 Talk to our compliance team today — we make RTO acquisition stress-free and fully compliant.
Final Word
Buying an RTO doesn’t have to be risky — if you know what to look for.
Use this checklist as your roadmap to make sure the business you’re buying is worth the investment and ready for a smooth transition.
Need a second opinion before you buy an RTO?
Chat with us — we audit, guide, and protect buyers like you every day.
Why VET Resources?
When it comes to RTO compliance, audit preparation, and resource development, you need more than checklists — you need trusted tools backed by VET experts.
Here’s why VET Resources is your go-to solution:
✅ ASQA-aligned tools – All our templates meet current and future RTO Standards (2025 ready!)
✅ Customisable documents – TAS, validation tools, policies, procedures, checklists and more
✅ Audit-proof systems – Developed by experienced RTO consultants
✅ Save time – Focus on quality delivery while we handle the paperwork
✅ Expert support – Get advice, not just documents
Whether you’re buying an RTO, starting a new one, or scaling your current operation — we help you stay compliant, confident, and competitive.
👉 Explore our resources today at eranurag.tech/
Or email us at info@vetresources.com.au to book a free compliance health check.
