Richer, faster data supporting evidence-based decision-making and better outcomes for students, industries, and governments.
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Introduction to the VET Data Streamlining program.
About the program
Australia must quickly address emerging challenges, skill gaps, and market opportunities to remain as a global leader in vocational education and training (VET). Modern systems and a new VET Information Standard are essential.
The VET Data Streamlining (VDS) Program is the foundation of the Enhanced VET Data and Evidence initiative, aimed at enhancing the accuracy, timeliness, and security of VET activity data. This initiative is a key component of the National Skills Agreement NSA).
Once fully implemented, the outcomes of the VDS Program will be improved data quality, reduced reporting timelines and decreased time delay between data creation, validation, reporting, and usage.
The VDS Program is a collaborative effort involving Commonwealth, state and territory training authorities, the National Centre for Vocational Education Research (NCVER), and VET sector regulators.
There are three components to the program:
The VDS program will be rolled out progressively from 2026. Training organisations will have ample time to transition to the new Standard and data submission processes by 31 December 2028, when the revised reporting obligations become mandatory.
RTOs registered by the Western Australian Training Accreditation Council or the Victorian Registration and Qualifications Authority should consult their Regulators for advice about the timing and terms of their transition to the new reporting arrangements.
Benefits for the VET sector
- More efficient data validation and submission practices and flow of data throughout the VET sector.
- A richer, consistent national dataset due to an expanded VET Information Standard.
- Up-to-date evidence of VET student competencies and training progress.
- Improved protection of data through contemporary system controls and cyber security measures.
- More timely, national VET dataset supporting evidence-based decision-making for consumers of VET data.
- Enhanced analytics capabilities that are trusted by governments and others to inform decisions.
Transition to VET Data Streamlining
These key dates outline the transition timeframe for RTOs and SMS vendors.
Dates may shift as we work with the sector to make transition as smooth as possible. If this happens, we will let you know.
Get involved
The VDS Program runs program showcases every 10 weeks, which are open to all members of the VET sector.
Showcases contain program updates, opportunities for people to submit questions and to demonstrate program products.
The VET sector is welcome to join the Program Showcase distribution list, enquire about the program or indicate interest in activities like user testing and design consultation.
To get in touch, email us at VDSEngagement@dewr.gov.au or fill out the registration form.
More information
- View the National VET Data Policy and the National VET Data Frequently Asked Questions
- Find out more about the other Skills Reform resources.