The Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) Framework supports Victorian public health services to recognise staff training completed at other services. The framework enables a consistent, statewide approach to recognising core training.
It aims to:
- reduce duplication of mandatory training
- support workforce mobility
- improve consistency in education and training
- maintain safety and quality standards across the system
The RPL Framework purpose
The framework:
- reduces duplication of common training for healthcare professionals moving between services
- supports workforce mobility, including for staff working across multiple employers or in rural and regional areas
- improves consistency and quality of education across the sector
- supports a future centralised and digitally enabled approach to education and recognition
- enables scalable, system-wide education approaches that strengthen workforce resilience
By recognising prior learning, health services can avoid unnecessary repeat training while maintaining safety and quality requirements.
How it works
- Prior learning can be recognised within and across Victorian public health services
- Health services align their existing training to agreed statewide learning outcomes
- Health services continue to manage and deliver their own training programs
- Departmental funding supports services to update and align training for recognition across the system
Scope of the framework
The RPL Framework applies to all Victorian public health services.
It currently covers six mandatory training domains:
- hand hygiene
- cybersecurity
- occupational violence and aggression
- occupational health and safety
- respectful workplace behaviours
- manual handling
The framework sets agreed statewide learning outcomes in these non-specialist areas to support consistent recognition of training.
Implementation and approach
The framework is being implemented in phases.
Key features include:
- funding for large metropolitan and regional health services to support rollout
- ongoing monitoring, reporting and evaluation
- partnership with health services to refine implementation over time
The framework lays the foundation for future system-wide and digital approaches to education and RPL.
Objectives
The RPL Framework aims to:
- provide consistent, clear information to all stakeholders
- build shared understanding of the framework, including its benefits and limitations
- support engagement with health services during rollout and evaluation
- encourage leadership ownership and visible support
- increase workforce awareness, confidence and uptake
- maintain confidence in safety, quality and professional standards
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