If you’ve ever looked into training, either for yourself or your team, you’ve probably come across terms like accredited, non-accredited, nationally recognised, or industry licence.
But what do they actually mean? And how do you know what’s right for your goals?
The world of training can be tricky to navigate, especially when different providers use different language to describe what they offer. This guide is here to cut through the noise, so you feel confident, informed, and equipped to make training choices that work for you.
So, What is Accredited Training?
Accredited training is part of Australia’s nationally recognised training framework. That means it’s:
✔ Delivered by a Registered Training Organisation (RTO)
✔ Includes a national course code (e.g. SISSS000132)
✔ Aligned with a unit of competency and/or qualification
✔ Results in a Statement of Attainment or full qualification (check out an example below)
✔ Recognised nationwide by employers, regulators, and insurers
Did you know? It’s your legal right to choose where you complete accredited training. No one, individual or organisation, can force you to use a specific provider.If your role requires you to meet legal or industry standards, accredited training is usually essential. This includes qualifications like First Aid, Pool Lifeguarding, Swim Teaching, and Working at Heights, just to name a few.
What is Non-Accredited Training?
Non-accredited training refers to any course, workshop, or program that falls outside the national framework. It’s not necessarily lesser, it just serves a different purpose.
This kind of training might include:
– Internal or in-house upskilling
– Short courses or professional development (PD)
– Licensing schemes or refresher training
– Industry-specific workshops
– Emerging practices or soft skills training
You might still receive a certificate or badge, but it won’t be a Statement of Attainment, and it won’t carry national recognition.
✅ A quick way to check:
You’ll receive a Statement of Attainment
Need help spotting the difference? We’ll show you an example certificate below.
• Accredited training always includes a course code
• Only RTOs can deliver it
• You’ll receive a Statement of Attainment
Need help spotting the difference? We’ll show you an example certificate below.
When to Choose Each One
| Use Accredited Training When… | Use Non-Accredited Training When… |
| You need a formal qualification | You want to explore a new topic |
| You’re meeting legal/compliance standards | You’re brushing up existing skills |
| You’re applying for a funded program | You want internal staff development |
| You want recognised career pathways | You’re seeking quick, low-pressure PD |
Where It Can Get Confusing…
Some providers use terms like “industry licence,” “nationally aligned,” or “recognised by leading swim schools”.
It sounds official, but unless you see a course code and receive a Statement of Attainment, it’s not accredited.
If you’re unsure, check for:
🔍 A course code (e.g. SISCAQU025)
🔍 The provider’s RTO number
🔍 A clear outline of learning outcomes linked to national units
🔍 Confirmation you’ll receive a Statement of Attainment upon completion
No code? No RTO number? No nationally recognised certificate? It’s likely non-accredited.
At Ampd Academy, We Do Both
At Ampd Academy (RTO 31946), we proudly deliver both accredited and non-accredited training. because both can be valuable, depending on your needs.
Want to become a swim teacher, lifeguard, or provide First Aid? You’ll need accredited training.
Curious about Neurodiversity in Aquatics or want to learn the basics of water chemistry? (Yes, that’s a little teaser of what’s to come!) Non-accredited might be the perfect fit.We’ll always be transparent about what’s what, because informed decisions are the best kind, and (let’s be real) we legally have to be.
Make the Choice That’s Right for You
Both types of training have their place. What matters most is knowing the difference, so you can choose training that actually aligns with your goals.
Before you enrol in anything, ask yourself:
👉 Is this training accredited?
👉 Is the provider a registered RTO?
👉 What certificate will I receive, and does it meet my needs?When in doubt, do a quick check on training.gov.au or reach out to a trusted provider (like us!) for honest answers.
Want to know what a Nationally Recognised Certificate should look like?
Check our an example provided by the Australian Qualifications Framework Council, issued November 2012, and still current at the time of posting this blog:
