There are 3 types of codes typically used in Nationally Recognised Training, these are;
- Training Package Codes
- Qualification Codes
- Unit Codes
These codes assign a unique identifier for each training package. The convention applied for most training packages is three letters followed by two numbers.
- The letters are a unique sequence (much like airport codes) to identify a training package.
- The numbers normally indicate the year of endorsement.
For example, the Transmission, Distribution and Rail Sector has the code:
UET21
- UET is the unique code for ESI
- 21 is the year the training package was first endorsed.
Each nationally recognised qualification will have a unique code. This is so it can be differentiated against qualification of similar names or different versions of the same qualification. For example the Certificate III in ESI Distribution Overhead was updated in 2021 and whilst it kept the title “Certificate III in ESI Distribution Overhead” the code changed from UET30619 to UET30621. The code allows the different versions to be distinguished.
Whilst the convention may change from one training package to another, most follow the logic as explained below:
- The first letters refer to the training package which contains the qualification
- The first number refers to the AQF level of the qualification
- The next two numbers indicate the sequence, basically the order in which the qualification is located within the training package
- The last two numbers show the year the qualification was endorsed.
For example, the Certificate III in ESI Distribution Overhead has the code:
UET30621
- UET is the Transmission, Distribution and Rail Sector Training Package
- 3 is the AQF Level for Certificate
- 06 is the sequence within the BSB Diploma level qualifications
- 21 is the year 2021, when the qualification was accredited
Unit codes are used for a similar purpose to qualification codes, they allow for a representation of a unique identifier for each unit of competence. As with qualifications unit codes can be used to identify the currency status for a specific unit. For example take two units with the same name, but different codes:
- UETTDREL16 – Working safely near live electrical apparatus
- UETDREL005 – Working safely near live electrical apparatus
The codes would be used to identify the actual unit completed by a student and the currency of the unit. By simply typing the codes into the national training database (training.gov.au) we can identify the following under the usage recommendations:
- UETTDREL16 – Working safely near live electrical apparatus (Superseded)
- UETDREL005 – Working safely near live electrical apparatus (Current)
In terms of coding, most units will use the following convention (note that there are differences across training packages):
- The first 3 letters refer to the training package
- The next 3 letters refer to the competency field or specialisation
- The following numbers are a uniquely assigned set of numbers for that unit
- The final letter refers to the revision number (starting at A)
For Example:
UETTDREL16A
- UETT is the Business Services Training Package
- DREL is the field code for Distribution (DR) Entry Level (EL)
- 16 is the unique unit ID
- A generally means that there have not been any revisions