A group training organisation (GTO) recruits apprentices and trainees and places them with host employers.
A GTO will make sure that their apprentices and trainees get the right work experience and training.
Standards and guidelines for group training organisations
Group training organisations (GTOs) must have approval to employ apprentices and trainees.
All GTOs must meet the National Standards for Group Training Organisations(opens in a new window).
The standards make sure that GTOs provide ethical, consistent, high-quality services.
In Victoria, GTOs must also follow our policy and procedures.
You can find GTOs on:
GTO recognition
GTO recognition is a formal approval that shows a GTO meets the National Standards for Group Training Organisations.
We are responsible for GTO recognition in Victoria. We coordinate GTO recognition with the Apprenticeship Employment Network (AEN)(opens in a new window).
A GTO recognised in another state or territory must apply to us for recognition in Victoria.
Recognised GTOs can apply to the State Revenue Office Victoria(opens in a new window) for exemptions from payroll tax.
Recognised GTOs may use the Group Training logo(opens in a new window) to promote and certify that they meet the National Standards.
How to apply for GTO recognition
Before applying for GTO recognition, you need approval to employ apprentices and trainees.
Maintaining GTO recognition
We conduct cyclical audits of GTOs to confirm their compliance with the standards.
We audit GTOs on a 5-year cycle. The audit may be onsite, desktop or a combination.
If your GTO complies with the standards, we recommend GTO recognition for up to five years.
Cancellation of GTO recognition
We may cancel recognition when a GTO does not:
- follow the National Standards for Group Training Organisations
- rectify compliance issues
- adhere to the legislative requirements for employers of apprentices and trainees.
Sometimes, we may become aware that a GTO is not meeting the standards from external sources, such as a complaint.
We may conduct an audit and financial capability assessment. We will request specific evidence to show compliance with the standards.
If we find non-compliance with the standards, you have 28 days to rectify issues and provide evidence.
If you cannot prove compliance, we may cancel your GTO recognition.
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