• Home
  • Courses by Subject
      • Accounting
      • Bookkeeping
      • Compliance and Risk
      • Finance
      • MYOB
      • Payroll
      • Xero
      • Animal Care
      • Animal Science
      • Pet Grooming
      • Veterinary Nursing
      • Arts
      • Graphic Design
      • Interior Design
      • Photography
      • Web Design
      • Building and Construction
      • Plumbing
      • Business
      • Business Administration
      • Business Development
      • Business Operations
      • Change Management
      • Entrepreneurship
      • Human Resources
      • Leadership and Management
      • Logistics
      • Management
      • PRINCE2
      • Project Management
      • Quality Management
      • Supply Chain Operations
      • Aged Care
      • Alcohol and Other Drugs
      • Community Services
      • Disability
      • Individual Support
      • Child Care
      • Education
      • Education Support
      • Manufacturing
      • Agriculture
      • Conservation and Land Management
      • Horticulture
      • Sustainability
      • Beauty
      • Hairdressing
      • Lash
      • Makeup
      • Nail Technology
      • Allied Health
      • Counselling
      • Dental Assisting
      • Fitness
      • Health
      • Health Administration
      • Health Services Assistance
      • Massage
      • Mental Health
      • Nursing
      • Nutrition
      • Personal Training
      • Pharmacy
      • Practice Management
      • Psychology
      • Event Management
      • Hospitality
      • Travel and Tourism
      • Agile
      • Artificial Intelligence
      • AWS
      • Cisco
      • Cloud Computing
      • Coding
      • CompTIA
      • Cyber Security
      • Data Analytics
      • Data Science
      • IT
      • ITIL
      • Microsoft
      • Networking
      • Programming
      • Software
      • Systems Administration
      • Web Development
      • Legal
      • Work Health and Safety
      • Digital Marketing
      • Marketing
      • Social Media Marketing
    • Blended
    • In-class
    • Online
    • Virtual
    • ACT
    • New South Wales
    • Northern Territory
    • South Australia
    • Tasmania
    • Victoria
    • Western Australia
    • Queensland
    • Certificate II
    • Certificate III
    • Certificate IV
    • Short
    • Diploma
    • Advanced Diploma
    • Bachelor
    • Graduate Certificate
    • Graduate Diploma
    • Masters
    • Unaccredited
  • Resources
  • Workforce Training
  • Contact us
  • Advertise With Us
  • Affiliates
  • About us
Homepage 
ResourcesCareers in AustraliaEducation in AustraliaHow to StudyStudy in AustraliaTAFE in Australia
  1. Home
  2. Resources
  3. Education and Training
  4. What is competency based training? [FAQ]

Qualifications


Q: What is competency based training?

A:

Competency based training (CBT) is the nationally recognised method of vocational learning in training courses that encompasses a more flexible style of training that adapts to each learner.

Unlike traditional methods, competency-based learning around individual workplace skills prepares learners in a targeted way to meet the specific needs of many Australian industries.


What are the benefits of competency based training programs?

CBT has many benefits. Here are just a few:


  • Flexible learning timelines

    In a more modern learning approach, CBT allows learners to complete studies and be assessed on units of competency at their own pace. This flexible learning structure helps people to achieve their qualifications in a way that suits them.

  • Learning efficiency

    Competency based learning programs focus on usable skills for the workplace, and each industry has its own standards to be achieved. Because learners only study what is needed for the job and are assessed directly based on those skills, less time is spent on areas of study they don’t necessarily need.

  • Real-world experience

    The tangible skills acquired by learning in a CBT method are aimed at preparing learners for the workforce. CBT competencies are focused on hands-on, real-life training and skills development and often involve an element of industry work experience.


How is competency based training assessed?

A competency based assessment is based on national benchmarks, called competency standards. These standards confirm that an individual can successfully perform tasks expected in the workplace.


What is a benchmark in terms of competency based training?

A benchmark is a level of knowledge and skill required by an industry or sector that must be reached to achieve competency.

To complete the VET qualification, all units of competency for that course must be achieved.

Work-focused assessments may be conducted in many methods, including:

  • Written work
  • Oral presentations
  • Practical tasks
  • Portfolio presentations

Learn more flexibly and get real-world experience with VET and TAFE courses. Browse courses here.

Read More Qualifications Questions


GO BACK TO THE GUIDE

Frequently Asked Questions

Find answers to your burning questions about everything, from vocational education, to payment options, and everything in between.

Avatar photo
Candlefox
Candlefox

Navigator Illustration
Not sure which course to choose? Let us recommend the best courses to suit you!
gator tooltip icon
Our course navigator helps refine thousands of courses into a personalised list that suits you. Click to answer each question, so we can provide you with the best possible courses, tailored to your preferences.
Not sure which course to choose? Let us recommend the best courses to suit you!

Try our navigator tool and find the right course.

Start Here
Navigator Illustration

Latest Articles


Top In-Demand Skills You Need to Stay Employable in 2026

As we approach 2026, the global workforce is being reshaped by accelerating technology, demographic...

Avatar photo
Kristen Michaelides
Dec 5, 2025
Read More

21 Legit Ways to Make Money Online Fast (& Slow) in 2026

Need to boost your income? We compare the best ways to make money online, short- and long-term, that...

Avatar photo
Kristen Michaelides
Nov 26, 2025
Read More

What is Community Services? Roles, Courses, and Career Paths

Certificate III in Community Services – A starting point for support roles under supervision. Certif...

Avatar photo
Kristen Michaelides
Nov 14, 2025
Read More

Want to Read More?


Why a Double Diploma is Better Than a Single Diploma

In today’s competitive job market, a single diploma may no longer be enough to stand out from the cr...

Avatar photo
The College for Adult Learning
Jul 17, 2023
Read More

Qualifications FAQs — Your Questions Answered

Q: What is a recognised qualification? Q: What is an apprenticeship or traineeship?...

Claudia Reiners
May 27, 2022
Read More

VET Courses vs. Higher Education: Choosing the Right Path

Gone are the days when a one-size-fits-all approach to education was the norm. The traditional belie...

Avatar photo
Kristen Michaelides
Apr 29, 2024
Read More

Subscribe to Our Newsletter

Get expert advice, insights, and explainers on tricky topics — designed to help you navigate your learning journey with confidence.

By submitting this enquiry I accept the "Privacy Policy" and "Terms of Use"
  • chevron-left
  • Popular Subjects
  • Study Locations
  • Qualification Type
  • Popular Blogs
  • chevron-right
  • Community Services
  • Accounting
  • Animal Care
  • Aged Care
  • Child Care
  • Counselling
  • IT
  • Business Admin
  • Business
  • Disability
  • Education
  • Project Management
  • Marketing
  • Allied Health
  • Building and Construction
  • Fitness
  • View More
  • New South Wales
  • Northern Territory
  • Queensland
  • South Australia
  • Tasmania
  • Victoria
  • Western Australia
  • View More
  • Advanced Diploma
  • Certificate III
  • Certificate IV
  • Diploma
  • Masters
  • Short
  • Graduate Certificate
  • View More
  • 5 Low-Stress Jobs to a Create Perfect Work-Life Balance
  • 10 Highest Paying Jobs in Australia Without a Degree
  • 12+ Best Side Hustles in Australia: Money Makers
  • What Are The Most Enjoyable Careers? Top 12 Fun Jobs
  • 22 Jobs You Don't Need Experience For: Learn While You Earn
  • TAFE, VET and AQF – Acronyms in Australian Learning
  • Changing Careers Over 50: The Best Decision You’ll Ever Make
  • Government Funded Courses and Subsidised Training
  • Never Too Late: Studying at TAFE as a Mature Age Student
  • Study at TAFE | Guide to TAFE Courses in Australia
  • 35 Profitable (and Fun) Home Business Ideas You Can Start Today
  • The Top Careers That Earn Over $100K Without a Degree
  • Top 10 High Income Skills of 2026 (Based on Real Data)
  • What is TAFE (Technical and Further Education)
  • View More

Newsletter sign up

We'll email you updates on job trends, career advice, study tips, news and more.
Courses
  • All subjects
  • Online courses
About Us
  • About tafecourses.com.au
Contact us
  • Contact
  • Advertise your course
  • Become an affiliate
Resources
  • Our blog
  • Workforce training
Privacy Policy Terms of Use
Certified B Corporation
Tafecourses Facebook Tafecourses Instagram
Certified B Corporation
Australian Aboriginal flag Torres Strait Islander flag
In the spirit of reconciliation, tafecourses.com.au acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of country throughout Australia and their connections to land, sea and community. We pay our respect to their Elders past and present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples today.
Copyright © 2025 Tafecourses.com.au
All Rights Reserved.

Newsletter Sign Up

We’ll email you updates on job trends, career advice, study tips, news and more.

By downloading this template I accept the "Privacy Policy" and "Terms of Use"
Back to Top