Student Handbook
Everything you need to know as a Zokal Safety Training learner — enrolment, support, assessments, fees, complaints, privacy and your rights and responsibilities. Keep this on hand throughout your training.
5/5 Friesian Close, Sandgate NSW 2304
Welcome
Thank you for choosing Zokal Safety Training. We look forward to working with you and supporting you on your learning journey to achieve your training and career goals.
Zokal is committed to providing high quality standards of vocational education and training. We aim to provide a happy, safe atmosphere in which to learn, and we will ensure that you receive the opportunity to fulfil your personal potential during your training. Every attempt will be made by staff to accommodate the training to meet your individual needs.
It is important to keep this handbook on hand during your training — it provides additional guidance as you progress. You will find information about Zokal's policies and procedures, together with forms and documents that you may need to refer to and/or complete.
If you have any suggestions on how we can improve our policies, procedures, training or any of our services, please let us know by emailing training@zokal.com.au, by completing the feedback form at the end of training, or by notifying a Zokal staff member.
We sincerely hope your time at Zokal is a positive and productive learning experience. If you require any assistance with understanding these policies and procedures, please do not hesitate to ask your trainer.
— Jim Prout, CEO
Our Commitment & Key Contacts
We're committed to:
- Providing quality training that meets the National Standards for Registered Training Organisations 2025.
- Making your learning experience safe, inclusive and supportive.
- Helping you succeed with the right support services and clear information.
Key contacts
- General enquiries: (02) 4960 9611 · training@zokal.com.au
- Address: 5/5 Friesian Close, Sandgate NSW 2304
- Web: www.zokal.com.au
How to use this handbook
This handbook guides you through your journey as a learner with Zokal Safety Training Pty Ltd. We recommend reading it in full at the start of your training and returning to it any time you need clarity on your rights, responsibilities or support options.
Accessing your student tools
Your learning materials, assessment tools and important course documents will be provided to you during your classroom introduction session. If pre-work is required, you can access learning and assessment materials through the RTOPilot Student Portal or, by request, by email.
At your first session, your trainer will:
- Explain the training schedule and assessment requirements.
- Provide your course workbook or folder (if printed).
- Provide forms for you to complete as part of enrolment.
- Walk you through any digital tools or portals used.
- Introduce the student support process and contacts.
Pre-Enrolment & Onboarding
Completing your enrolment and pre-training checks via the student portal before your course begins helps us confirm your eligibility, tailor support to your needs and secure your place. This ensures Zokal meets its obligations under Standards 2.1–2.6 of the Standards for RTOs.
Before choosing to enrol, you can access course information through zokal.com.au, including course code and title, delivery mode and duration, any fees or resources required, physical demands, pre-requisites, available support services and special requirements.
Suitability self-assessment
Conducting a suitability self-assessment before you complete your enrolment application ensures we can:
- Confirm you meet entry requirements.
- Identify any LLN, digital, physical or other support needs.
- Plan reasonable adjustments and support strategies.
- Document outcomes.
How the check works
- Access the link provided by email and log into the student portal.
- Answer the questions provided.
- Complete the LLND assessment.
- Provide information required to complete your enrolment application.
The LLND assessment
There is a short LLND assessment to be completed as part of the enrolment application. It assesses learning, reading, writing, oral communication and numeracy against the Australian Core Skills Framework (ACSF). It takes about 10 minutes, is not a test, and is not counted toward your overall results — it helps your trainer identify where you may need further assistance.
After review your trainer will determine whether you:
- Can proceed without adjustments.
- Require specified support (e.g. LLN workshop, digital skills coaching).
- Should consider alternative pathways or deferment.
USI & AVETMISS — Your Obligations & Our Reporting
Your Unique Student Identifier (USI) is your unique education number — 10 letters and numbers (never all numbers). You only need to create it once and you have it for life. It gives you access to a government-authenticated record of all your VET achievements since 2015.
You need a USI if you are:
- A student studying nationally recognised VET.
- Seeking a VET student loan.
- A higher education student seeking a HELP loan or Commonwealth Supported Place.
- A higher education student graduating.
How we manage your USI & AVETMISS data
- USI collection & verification — we collect your USI at enrolment (or with written consent, apply on your behalf via usi.gov.au) and verify your identity against your USI registration.
- AVETMISS data capture — we gather mandatory fields (demographics, employment, study details) from your enrolment form and submit data in compliance with Data Provision Requirements 2020.
- Regulatory compliance & data security — all processes conform to government standards, and data is stored and transmitted securely under the Privacy Act 1988 and USI privacy principles.
Your role & actions
| Step | What you do |
|---|---|
| 1 | Create or provide your USI — enter it on your enrolment application, or complete the USI consent section to authorise us to apply on your behalf. Create your own at usi.gov.au/students/create-your-usi. |
| 2 | Complete AVETMISS fields — accurately fill all demographic and study-related fields, including disability status and employment details. |
| 3 | Notify of USI changes — submit an Access/Correction Request Form within 2 business days of the change. |
| 4 | Review privacy information — read the USI privacy notice and our AVETMISS privacy summary. |
Language, Literacy, Numeracy & Digital (LLND) Support
Strong LLND skills are essential to your success. By identifying your needs early and providing focused support, we ensure you can fully engage with course materials and demonstrate competence.
- Mandatory assessment — all students undertake an LLND assessment.
- Clear exemptions — you may be exempt if you hold a Certificate III+ or can demonstrate relevant industry experience.
- Rapid results & planning — we return your LLND results quickly, then tailor a Training Adjustment Plan if required.
- Timely implementation — agreed adjustments (extra time, tutorials, assistive technology) are put in place within days.
- Ongoing review — we monitor your progress and adapt support through regular check-ins.
Understanding Your Course Fees
Transparent and fair fee practices help you make informed decisions. This section outlines your financial obligations, refund entitlements, how to access certification and what to do if you need help with payments.
| What we do | What you need to know |
|---|---|
| Fee disclosure | Course information — including fees covering tuition, materials and admin — is on our website. A maximum of $1,500 can be collected before your course begins (where course cost exceeds $1,500). |
| Course fees | Course fees are payable in full prior to attendance to secure your place (where fees are less than $1,500). Course fees are all-inclusive. |
| Refund eligibility | Refunds are available under certain conditions (see Course Fees, Payments & Refunds section). |
| Certification | You will receive your certificate or Statement of Attainment within 30 calendar days of successful completion at no extra cost. |
| Reassessment | You get two free reassessment attempts per unit. A Statement of Attainment will be issued for units completed if the full course isn't finished. |
| Cooling-off period | You may cancel within 10 business days of booking and request a refund. |
Your Consumer Rights & Appeals
As a student you're protected by Australian Consumer Law, which guarantees that services must be delivered with care and skill, match the service described, and be fit for purpose.
If you believe Zokal has not met these expectations or wish to dispute a fee outcome:
- Submit a Complaint or Appeal Form detailing the issue and outcome you seek.
- Include any evidence (receipts, emails, correspondence).
- We'll acknowledge your submission within 3 business days.
- We aim to resolve complaints within 10 business days.
- If unresolved you may escalate to the Australian Skills Quality Authority (ASQA), the State Ombudsman, or a consumer protection agency.
What Your Course Includes
We deliver your training in accordance with the nationally recognised training product, using a validated Training and Assessment Strategy (TAS). Your course is structured into clear phases — orientation, training delivery and assessment — with each unit of competency mapped to the relevant training product requirements and delivered using appropriate methods (practical tasks, simulated work, online learning).
Trainers are qualified and current in their industry area. Assessment tools meet the Principles of Assessment and Rules of Evidence, and we monitor your progress, offer individualised support and keep your records accurate and secure.
Your role
- Engage in learning — attend sessions, complete tasks, ask questions.
- Meet unit requirements — understand the unit outcomes and use your course materials.
- Take responsibility — raise concerns early and make use of support.
Insurance
Maintaining the right insurance protects you, our trainers, staff and visitors if something goes wrong. Zokal Safety Training holds:
- Public liability insurance — continuous cover of at least AUD 10 million across all training and assessment activities. Certificate of Currency retained as evidence.
- Professional indemnity insurance — protects against claims arising from advice, assessments or services.
- Workers' compensation insurance — compliant with state Workers' Compensation laws, covering all employees (and contractors where required).
- Building & contents insurance — where we own or lease facilities.
- Contract works / products liability — for specialised training with licensed equipment.
Our insurers are APRA-authorised, and policies are reviewed and renewed annually against our scope of registration.
Training Adjustment Plans (TAPs)
A Training Adjustment Plan is not about changing course outcomes — it's about supporting you to reach them. Every student deserves a fair opportunity to succeed.
How TAPs work
- Trigger plan — based on LLND, pre-enrolment questions or declaration.
- Draft & approve — you and your trainer review and comment within 3 business days.
- Sign-off — you confirm the TAP within 2 business days (ask questions if unsure).
- Implementation — resources and sessions are arranged immediately.
- Monitoring — outcomes are securely logged in our Student Management System and protected under the Privacy Act 1988.
Examples of reasonable adjustments
- Extra time for assessments or extensions on deadlines.
- One-on-one tutorial support or mentoring sessions.
- Assistive technology (screen readers, spell-check tools).
- Printed materials in large print or different formats.
- Modified practical tasks for mobility or sensory needs.
- Language support or simplified instructions.
Student Support & Wellbeing
Our support services are available before enrolment, during training and through to completion. All support is confidential and provided with your consent. We offer academic support (LLND assessments, one-on-one tutoring, reasonable adjustments), wellbeing services (confidential screening, counselling referrals, Student Support Officer check-ins), diversity and inclusion (accessible materials to WCAG 2.1, cultural partnerships, peer mentoring) and continuous improvement (feedback surveys, support reviews, policy updates).
Support services — where to get help
Mental health & crisis support
| Service | Description | Contact |
|---|---|---|
| Lifeline | 24/7 crisis support for people in distress | 13 11 14 |
| Beyond Blue | Mental health, anxiety and depression support | 1300 22 4636 |
| Suicide Call Back Service | Counselling for people affected by suicide | 1300 659 467 |
Youth & education support
| Service | Description | Contact |
|---|---|---|
| Headspace | Mental health and wellbeing for young people aged 12–25 | 1800 650 890 |
| Kids Helpline | Support for young people aged 5–25 | 1800 55 1800 |
LGBTIQA+ support
| Service | Description | Contact |
|---|---|---|
| QLife | Peer support for LGBTIQA+ individuals | 1800 184 527 |
Family & domestic violence support
| Service | Description | Contact |
|---|---|---|
| 1800RESPECT | 24/7 support for sexual assault and domestic violence | 1800 737 732 |
| Men's Referral Service | Help for men concerned about their behaviour | 1300 766 491 |
Multicultural & CALD student support
| Service | Description | Contact |
|---|---|---|
| Multicultural Health Connect | Health information and services in your language | 1800 186 815 |
| Translating & Interpreting Service (TIS) | Free interpreting for non-English speakers | 131 450 |
Disability & accessibility
| Service | Description | Contact |
|---|---|---|
| Disability Gateway | Information and referral for people with disability | 1800 643 787 |
| NDIS | National Disability Insurance Scheme | 1800 800 110 |
Financial & housing assistance
| Service | Description | Contact |
|---|---|---|
| National Debt Helpline | Free financial counselling and budgeting advice | 1800 007 007 |
| Ask Izzy | Find local housing, food, health and financial services | askizzy.org.au |
General health & sexual health
| Service | Description | Contact |
|---|---|---|
| Healthdirect | 24/7 trusted health advice from registered nurses | 1800 022 222 |
| SHINE SA (national referrals) | Sexual health support and education | shinesa.org.au |
All support conversations are confidential and focused on helping you feel safe, supported and ready to succeed. We regularly review and update this list — if you notice outdated details, please let us know.
Individual Support Strategies
We offer reasonable adjustments, support plans, intervention plans and leave plans. Supports are provided confidentially with your involvement, and they do not lower course standards or unit outcomes — they help you meet them.
Types of support plans
| Type | What it's for | Triggered when |
|---|---|---|
| Training Adjustment Plan (TAP) | Supports access for students with health conditions, disabilities, carer responsibilities or language needs | LLND assessment, pre-enrolment questionnaire or declaration |
| Individual Support Plan (ISP) | Short-term learning support (exam prep, confidence-building, access to tools) | You request tutoring or flag difficulty via the Support Services Form |
What you can expect
| Step | What we do | What you do |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Request support | Provide the Support Services Form by email or in class | Complete the form |
| 2. Draft a plan | Review your needs and prepare the most suitable plan within 3 business days | Attend the meeting and share relevant info (medical certificate, tech barriers) |
| 3. Agree and sign | Co-design your support strategy and send to the portal for sign-off | Review and sign the plan; ask questions if anything is unclear |
| 4. Deliver support | Schedule tutoring, LLND sessions, extra time or adjusted assessments | Attend sessions, complete work as agreed, let us know how it's going |
| 5. Monitor & update | Check in fortnightly and revise the plan monthly if needed | Give honest feedback — your needs may change, and that's okay |
Diversity, Inclusion & Accessibility
We value the richness of all backgrounds and are committed to building a safe, inclusive, accessible learning environment — regardless of language background, cultural identity, ability, gender, sexuality or belief system.
What we provide
- Cultural inclusion — alternative class schedules or assessment dates (e.g. Ramadan, NAIDOC Week), prayer breaks or quiet spaces, and interpreters (including AUSLAN). Submit an Inclusion Referral Form at any time.
- Disability inclusion — support for learning (e.g. dyslexia), mental health (e.g. anxiety) and sensory needs (vision/hearing) through simplified text, audio, extra time, quiet rooms, flexible assessment, screen readers, large print and captioned videos, delivered through a co-designed Individual Support Plan.
- Learning resource adaptation — increased font size or line spacing, simplified language, translated summaries or glossaries, and screen-reader-compatible digital files.
- Peer connection & mentoring — optional, confidential connection with a peer or mentor from a similar cultural, disability or lived-experience background.
Examples of adjustments
| Barrier | Possible adjustment |
|---|---|
| Visual impairment | Large-print handouts, screen readers |
| Hearing loss | Closed captions, AUSLAN interpreter |
| Dyslexia | Coloured overlays, audio assessments |
| Mental health | Quiet space, extended deadlines |
| Cultural obligation | Religious breaks, rescheduled assessments |
| First Nations identity | Yarning circles, community Elder engagement |
Workplace Health & Safety
Your safety is our top priority — whether you're on campus or on placement. The Work Health and Safety Act 2011 (as amended) sets clear duties to prevent harm and keep our learning environments healthy.
Your rights & what you should do
| Right | What you should do |
|---|---|
| Safe environment | Attend inductions, toolbox talks and follow all safety directives |
| Informed & consulted | Ask questions in briefings and participate in risk-assessment meetings |
| Report hazards & incidents | Use the WHS Incident Report form to report anything unsafe |
| Refuse unsafe work | If a task poses imminent risk, stop work immediately and seek advice |
Quick guide: what to do after an incident
- Ensure safety first — move away from danger and, if needed, call emergency services.
- Notify your trainer or supervisor — they'll help secure the area.
- Complete the WHS Incident Report — capture what happened, where and who was involved.
- Follow up — attend any review meeting and cooperate with corrective-action plans.
Reporting an incident
- Stay safe first — move yourself and others out of harm's way; if someone needs urgent medical help, call 000 then alert your trainer.
- Grab the WHS Incident Report Form — from your trainer or reception.
- Fill it out clearly — incident details, injury details (if relevant), hazard and immediate action taken.
- Submit within 24 hours — hand it to reception or email a scanned copy to the WHS Officer.
- WHS team follows up — logs it in the register, carries out risk assessments and records corrective actions.
- Continuous improvement — outcomes are reviewed at the next Quality & Compliance meeting.
Emergency & evacuation on-site
| When you hear an alarm | What you do |
|---|---|
| 1. Stop work immediately | Leave all equipment as is — do not tidy up or collect belongings. |
| 2. Follow your fire warden's instructions | Proceed calmly to the nearest safe exit. |
| 3. Use the nearest exit — not elevators | Head to the evacuation meeting point (muster area) as signed. |
| 4. Assist others if safe to do so | Help classmates with mobility needs — but never put yourself at risk. |
| 5. Report to the muster area | Wait for roll call; do not leave until formally dismissed. |
| 6. Alert the warden to missing persons | If you notice someone has not arrived, tell the warden immediately. |
Fire emergency tips
- Only fight small fires — aim at the base, sweep side to side.
- Know your ABCs — A for wood/paper, B for liquids, C for electrical.
- Don't take unnecessary risks — if in doubt, evacuate first.
Course Fees, Payments, Refunds & Certification
- Zokal Safety Training's course fees are all-inclusive. There are no additional charges for the duration of the training course. Course fees are outlined at zokal.com.au.
- In line with the RTO's Fee Protection Policy, we will not collect more than $1,500 per student prior to course commencement.
- Certificates and Statements of Attainment are issued to students assessed as competent in the units successfully completed. The cost is included in course fees.
Refund circumstances
a) Zokal-initiated refund
- 100% refund if Zokal is unable to run a course on the dates stated at enrolment, or (at the student's option) transfer to the next available course.
- 100% refund if the student is deemed to not meet the minimum LLND requirements by the trainer/assessor after commencement.
b) Company and group enrolment cancellation
- Purchase Order or payment in full is required to confirm booking.
- Withdrawal with less than 48 hours (two business days) notice — full course fee applies.
- Withdrawal 48 hours – 10 business days notice — 50% of course fee.
- Full refunds available when notice is given more than 10 business days prior.
- No-show for a public course — full course fee.
- Zokal reserves the right to issue refunds at its discretion.
c) Individual / public course cancellation
- Payment in full is required to confirm booking.
- Company-registered no-show — full course fee.
- Cancellation less than 48 hours before — full course fee.
- Cancellation more than 48 hours before — full refund or transfer to another date.
- Cancellation of the second course date — full fee payment.
- If the student commences but does not complete the course, no refund is payable.
Cancelling during the cooling-off period
You are eligible to cancel your enrolment by placing formal notice in writing to the RTO Manager within 10 business days of enrolment, unless you have already commenced training.
Your role:
- Send a written Cancellation Notice to training@zokal.com.au within 10 business days of completing your Enrolment Agreement. Include full name, course code and enrolment date.
- Complete and attach the Refund Request Form to your email cancellation.
- Keep a copy of your sent email (with timestamp) as confirmation.
- We will acknowledge your cancellation and refund request within 2 business days.
Rights, Responsibilities & Code of Conduct
Your rights as a student
- Learn in a safe, inclusive and respectful environment — free from discrimination, bullying and harassment.
- Receive accurate, timely and accessible information about your course, assessments and progress.
- Request reasonable adjustments for disability, health condition, learning need or personal circumstance.
- Access support services at no cost to assist with academic success and personal wellbeing.
- Have your personal information protected in accordance with the Privacy Act 1988.
- Provide feedback and participate in surveys that inform continuous improvement.
- Lodge complaints and appeals without fear of penalty, handled fairly, confidentially and in a timely manner.
What we expect from you
- Participate actively and meet attendance, engagement and submission deadlines.
- Treat trainers, staff, peers and host employers with respect and courtesy.
- Act honestly and independently in assessments — plagiarism and cheating are not tolerated.
- Comply with WHS guidelines in all environments.
- Communicate early if you need help, are at risk of falling behind or require adjustments.
- Respect the confidentiality of any information encountered during training or placement.
- Follow the Student Code of Conduct in all settings (campus, online, work placement).
Our shared values
| Value | What this means |
|---|---|
| Respect | Treat all students, staff, clients and partners with courtesy and professionalism. |
| Responsibility | Take ownership of your learning, meet deadlines and attend scheduled classes. |
| Integrity | Submit your own work, be honest in all assessments and follow fair use of AI. |
| Inclusion | Celebrate diversity, accommodate difference and use inclusive language and behaviour. |
| Safety | Follow all WHS instructions, report hazards or misconduct and avoid behaviour that risks others' wellbeing. |
| Professionalism | Dress appropriately, use mobile devices responsibly and honour placement etiquette. |
Prohibited behaviours
You must not:
- Harass, bully, intimidate or discriminate against others.
- Damage, misuse or remove RTO property or training equipment.
- Attend class or placement under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
- Use threatening, abusive or inappropriate language.
- Share confidential information about others without consent.
- Breach academic integrity (plagiarise, cheat, misuse AI).
- Share assessments, learning content or login credentials.
- Bring weapons or prohibited substances into a training or workplace setting.
Online behaviour & devices
- Use respectful and inclusive language; avoid spam or offensive material.
- Keep your camera on when requested and engage actively.
- Never record or share content without permission.
- Keep mobile phones on silent in class unless authorised by your trainer.
- Never use AI tools or devices during assessments unless permitted.
- Do not use technology to impersonate others or fabricate data.
What happens if you breach the code?
Zokal may issue a verbal or written warning, apply temporary suspension, cancel enrolment for serious or repeated breaches, or refer matters to external authorities (e.g. police or placement hosts). All incidents are documented and monitored through our Governance Register.
Academic Integrity & Assessment
Academic integrity means submitting your own work, citing sources correctly and declaring any external tools (including AI) used. We uphold a fair assessment process for all students.
- Sign the Academic Integrity Agreement before submitting assessments if not completed in a supervised environment.
- Use correct referencing (e.g. Harvard) to acknowledge all external sources.
- Declare AI tools used — state the tool, version and extent on the cover sheet.
- Do not engage in cheating, plagiarism, collusion, data fabrication or impersonation.
Cheating, plagiarism & misuse of AI
- Cheating — using unauthorised notes/devices, getting someone else to do your work, sharing answers.
- Plagiarism — using someone else's ideas or words without citation, including from AI tools.
- Misuse of AI — uploading assessments to AI platforms or submitting AI-generated work without disclosure.
| Offence type | Outcome |
|---|---|
| Minor / first | Resubmission with support |
| Serious / repeated | Fail grade and misconduct record |
Students have the right to appeal via the Complaints & Appeals Policy.
Responsible Use of RTO Resources
You'll have access to digital platforms, printed materials, work placement tools and assessment templates. These are for your personal study and development only.
Permitted use
- Use course materials solely for your own learning and assessment.
- Save personal notes or assignments to the system as advised by your trainer.
- Use AI tools (e.g. Grammarly, ChatGPT) only when explicitly permitted by your trainer and declared on your cover sheet.
- Seek clarification on AI use before starting assessments.
You must not
- Share or upload assessment tasks or RTO documents to public AI tools, websites or forums.
- Use AI-generated content in assessments unless approved and properly cited.
- Distribute RTO-owned resources to others.
- Copy, modify or repurpose Zokal assessments for any other use.
- Use AI or digital tools to impersonate, fabricate results or avoid learning activities.
Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) & Credit Transfer
We know your skills and experience count. RPL lets you gain credit for what you already know, reducing duplication and fast-tracking your qualification.
Your rights & our commitments
- Right to apply — you may apply for RPL at any time, ideally within 2 weeks of enrolment.
- Clear guidance — we provide an RPL Kit and support to gather evidence.
- Fair assessment — your evidence is assessed against unit requirements by qualified assessors.
RPL procedure
- Decide and declare — indicate interest on your Enrolment Agreement or contact Student Support (within 2 weeks of course start).
- Receive and complete the RPL Kit — we supply within 3 business days of your request.
- Gather and submit evidence — portfolios, observations, interviews, simulations, written work, third-party reports (within 10 business days).
- RPL interview / assessment — MS Teams or on-site, within 7 business days of evidence verification.
- Outcome and validation — written outcome within 10 business days; validation within 30 days. If granted, your Training Plan is updated; if not, we discuss a Gap Training Plan.
Credit Transfer
If you've already achieved competencies with another RTO, Credit Transfer gives you full recognition — no extra assessment needed for matched units.
- Complete the Credit Transfer Form.
- Provide a certified/authenticated VET transcript (or USI transcript / QR-code authenticator).
- Submit via Student Portal → Forms → Credit Transfer, ideally within 2 weeks of enrolment.
- We verify eligibility via USI (for completions after 1 January 2015) and check transcript authenticity.
- Outcome notified in writing within 10 business days.
If unsuccessful, you can appeal under our Complaints and Appeals process.
Complaints, Appeals & Feedback
How to give feedback
- Quality Indicator Survey — we collect course feedback for ASQA's annual indicators and improvement planning.
- Informal feedback — tell your trainer or Student Support Officer in person or via the portal at any time.
- Formal feedback — submit a Feedback Form (via QR code). You can remain anonymous.
- Post-course evaluation — a course satisfaction survey at the end of training.
- Continuous improvement — we review every piece of feedback and track enhancements in our Continuous Improvement Register.
How to raise a complaint
We value your right to speak up. Whether it's feedback, a concern or a formal complaint — about another student, staff member, our training delivery or a third-party partner — we're committed to hearing you and acting.
- Multiple pathways — informal feedback, formal complaint or appeal.
- Support & fairness — you may involve a support person or interpreter at any stage. All parties get a fair opportunity to respond.
- Timely resolution — we acknowledge formal complaints within 5 business days and aim to resolve most within 60 calendar days. If not, we update you every 20 business days.
- Escalation & independent review — you can escalate to a senior manager, request a no-cost independent review, or contact ASQA or the Ombudsman.
- Confidentiality — matters are handled discreetly.
Appeals process
You have the right to challenge an assessment result if you believe it is incorrect, unfair or inconsistent.
| Step | What we do | What you do |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Submit appeal | Receive within 10 business days of the decision | Submit your appeal within 10 business days of receiving the complaint decision |
| 2. Informal discussion | Your trainer discusses the outcome with you | Raise the concern within 7 calendar days; be specific and refer to your Assessment Guide |
| 3. Acknowledge formal appeal | Acknowledge in writing within 5 business days | Submit the appeal via portal within 7 business days of informal discussion |
| 4. Investigate & meet | RTO Manager convenes a review panel (excluding the original assessor) | Attend the meeting and bring supporting evidence; you may involve a support person |
| 5. Decision issued | Written outcome within 15 business days | Review the result; attend re-assessment if offered |
| 6. Independent re-assessment | Qualified, independent assessor reassesses within 10 business days | Submit revised or original work; attend as scheduled |
| 7. Review board (optional) | Panel including external RTO representative reviews the case; finalised within 60 calendar days unless extended | Request an independent review if still dissatisfied |
| 8. Final decision & logging | Final result within 20 business days of the Review Board; case logged in Governance Register | Final decision is binding; if procedural fairness was breached, escalate to external agency |
- National Training Complaints Hotline — 13 38 73, Mon–Fri 8am–6pm.
- Australian Skills Quality Authority (ASQA).
- Ombudsman & Fair-Trading Offices — contact details available via Student Support.
Legislative & Regulatory Requirements
When undertaking training or work placement, students must comply with both employer and RTO policies and procedures, informed by the legislation below.
National standards & regulatory framework
- Standards for Registered Training Organisations — Outcome Standards, Compliance Standards and Fit and Proper Person Requirements, and the Credential Policy.
- Financial Viability Risk Assessment Requirements 2021.
- Data Provision Requirements 2020.
- Australian Qualifications Framework.
RTO responsibilities
- Ensure compliance with the Standards for RTOs 2025 under the NVETR Act 2011.
- Maintain systems for self-assurance, governance, risk management, public liability and annual reporting to ASQA.
Student responsibilities
- Familiarise with and comply with this handbook, policies and legislative obligations.
- Engage in internal and external quality surveys and feedback processes.
Data Provision Requirements 2020
What we do:
- Capture accurate data — enrolments, attendance, assessment and completion data recorded per AVETMISS NCVER standard.
- Submit Quality Indicator surveys — you may receive invitations (e.g. ACER Learner Questionnaire).
- Report to ASQA & NCVER — annual AVETMISS data lodgement (March–April).
- Maintain data security & privacy — secure handling per Privacy Act 1988.
Your role:
- Provide accurate personal/course details at enrolment (e.g. USI, prior qualifications).
- Respond to surveys promptly and truthfully.
- Notify Student Support of any changes within 5 business days.
- Understand your data is used for VET sector monitoring and policymaking, not publication.
Statutory Education Licence
Under Part VB of the Copyright Act 1968, RTOs can legally use third-party material under the Statutory Education Licence administered by Copyright Agency Ltd (CAL). Contact CAL on 02 9394 7600 or educationlicences@copyright.com.au.
Privacy Protection & Media Consent
Privacy Act 1988 & 2024 amendments
Why we collect information: to deliver training, meet regulatory obligations and safeguard you. We collect name, contact, enrolment, assessment results and health/disability info for reasonable adjustments.
- APP 1 — transparent data management; full Privacy Policy on Student Portal.
- APP 6 — limited use/disclosure; only with consent or legal requirement.
- APP 8 — overseas transfers only to providers meeting Australian privacy standards.
- APP 11 — secure storage with restricted authorised access.
- Statutory tort for serious privacy invasions from 10 June 2025.
- New criminal offence for doxxing from 10 December 2024.
- Automated decision-making disclosures required by 10 December 2026.
Your rights & responsibilities
- APP 12 & 13 — access and correction requests via Student Support.
- APP 2 — choose to remain anonymous or use a pseudonym unless legal identifiers are required.
- Keep personal records up to date.
- Lodge privacy complaints internally or with the OAIC via oaic.gov.au.
- Report breaches under the new tort or doxxing laws.
Media consent & usage
Zokal reserves the right to use media (photos, videos, audio) captured during a student's enrolment for educational, administrative and promotional purposes.
- We obtain written informed consent before any media is captured or used.
- We explain how the media will be used (marketing, e-portfolio, social media).
- We securely store consent forms and respect withdrawal wherever practical.
- For students under 18 we verify capacity to consent per OAIC guidance (students 15+ are presumed capable unless assessed otherwise).
Your role: read and sign the media consent form prior to participation; notify Student Support if you wish to withdraw consent.
Anti-Discrimination, Harassment & Bullying
Discrimination based on age, disability, race, sex, intersex status, gender identity or sexual orientation is prohibited across education and employment under:
- Age Discrimination Act 2004
- Disability Discrimination Act 1992
- Racial Discrimination Act 1975
- Sex Discrimination Act 1984
- NSW Anti-Discrimination Amendment (Religious Vilification) Act 2023
- NSW Conversion Practices Ban Act 2024 (effective 4 April 2025)
- Similar conversion practice bans in VIC, QLD, ACT and SA
Sexual harassment
Sexual harassment is unlawful under the Sex Discrimination Act 1984 — unwelcome sexual conduct that is reasonably offensive, intimidating or humiliating. Zokal applies the Sexual and Gender-based Harassment Code of Practice under WHS obligations (effective March 2025). Report instances internally or to AHRC or the Fair Work Commission.
Bullying, victimisation & harassment
Harassment, victimisation and bullying are illegal under federal and state legislation. Examples include:
- Unwelcome physical contact or repeated unwelcome invitations.
- Insulting or threatening language or gestures.
- Continual unjustified comments about someone's work or capacity.
- Jokes and comments about ethnicity, colour or race.
- Pictures, posters, graffiti or electronic images that are offensive, obscene or objectionable.
- Aggression, verbal abuse and behaviour intended to punish; persistent unreasonable criticism; put-downs.
We all have a right to feel safe and respected. Report any observed or experienced incidents to your trainer, Student Support or the CEO. All complaints are promptly investigated.
AFP National Police Check
Some industries (e.g. aged care, children's services) require students and staff to complete a National Police Check before commencing work placement. Full payment must accompany the application, and 100 points of ID must be provided (do not send originals). Apply online at afpnationalpolicechecks.converga.com.au.
Child Protection & Working With Children
All staff and students participating in child-related work must comply with the legislative obligations in each jurisdiction, including:
- Commonwealth — National Principles for Child Safe Organisations (2019, re-endorsed 2022).
- NSW — Child Safe Scheme (2020), Child Safe Standards.
- VIC — Child Safe Standards (2016; updated 2022).
- TAS — Child and Youth Safe Organisations Act 2023 (from 2024).
- ACT — Child Safe Standards under Human Rights Commission Act (2024).
Working with Children Checks
| Jurisdiction | Body | Where to apply |
|---|---|---|
| NSW | Office of the Children's Guardian | service.nsw.gov.au — Apply for a WWCC |
| VIC | Department of Justice & Community Safety | vic.gov.au/working-with-children-check |
| QLD | Blue Card Services | qld.gov.au — Blue Card |
| SA | Department for Child Protection | sa.gov.au — Screening WWCC |
| WA | Department of Communities | wa.gov.au — Working with Children Check |
| TAS | Department of Justice | service.tas.gov.au |
| NT | Department of Education | nt.gov.au — WWCC |
| ACT | Access Canberra | accesscanberra.act.gov.au — WWVP |
Child safe principles
- Child safety and wellbeing embedded in leadership, culture and governance.
- Children and young people are informed, involved and listened to.
- Supporting diversity and inclusion — First Nations, multicultural, LGBTQIA+ and neurodiverse children.
- Staff and students are screened, trained and supervised for child safety.
- Empowering families and communities to help safeguard children.
- Clear policies and processes to respond to complaints and reportable conduct.
- Child-safe environments regularly reviewed and improved.
- Online and physical environments minimise harm risks.
- Staff and students receive professional development in child protection.
- Policy documentation reflects best practice and is readily accessible.
Your responsibilities
- Obtain and maintain a valid Working with Children Check where relevant; inform the RTO immediately of any change in status.
- Complete all child safeguarding training and adhere to the Child Safe Policy.
- Report any concerns — neglect, abuse, threat or boundary violation — to the RTO or placement supervisor.
- Use digital technology (photos, devices) in line with policies and informed-consent protocols.
Forms & Resources
Throughout your studies, you may be asked to complete or access certain forms to support your training, assessments and communication. Here are the key forms available:
| Form name | Purpose | Where to get it |
|---|---|---|
| Enrolment Agreement Form | Enrol in your chosen course and provide personal, contact and emergency information | Pre-enrolment, student portal or website |
| Training Adjustment Plan | Request or record adjustments to training or assessment due to learning needs or support | From your trainer or Student Support |
| Intervention Plan | Support your learning progress if you are at risk of not completing successfully | Completed with your trainer or RTO Manager |
| Support Services Form | Document any support provided or referrals made | From your trainer or Student Support |
| Assessment Appeal Form | Formally request a review of an assessment outcome you disagree with | Available from Student Support |
| Student Feedback Form | Provide formal feedback on your course, facilities, trainer and learning outcomes | From your trainer or Student Support |
| Complaints & Appeals Form | Raise concerns or suggestions about your experience | Available from Student Support |
| Credit Transfer / RPL Application | Apply for recognition of prior learning or previous studies | On request |
| WHS Incident Report | Report an injury, hazard or near miss | Trainer or reception |
| Media Consent Form | Consent to use of photos, video and audio | During enrolment |
Document reference: NCL-TRAIN-GUIDE-0020-1 · Owner: Fiona Czadrik · Approved: 09 Jul 2026. This web version summarises the official Student Handbook (v7, 2026). For the complete PDF including form templates, download the handbook here.
Questions about anything in this handbook?
Our team can walk you through any policy or process — enrolment, support, assessments, refunds or complaints. Just reach out.