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25 August 2025

EA Accreditation: Quick Step-by-Step Process for RTOs

Phase 1: Initial Assessment & Planning

Step 1: Conduct Gap Analysis

  • Review your current engineering programs against EA's three pillars (CP, CE, CQ)

  • Identify shortfalls in program structure, staffing, facilities, and quality systems

  • Assess current volume of learning (must total 1600-2000 hours for combined Diploma/Advanced Diploma)

Step 2: Secure Leadership Commitment

  • Obtain formal RTO commitment for the EA accreditation journey

  • Allocate budget for staff, resources, facilities, and external support

  • Establish an internal project team with clear accountabilities

Step 3: Review Staffing Requirements

  • Ensure a minimum of 8 full-time equivalent teaching staff

  • Verify that at least three staff have an engineering specialisation in the offered streams

  • Plan recruitment or professional development if gaps exist

Phase 2: Program Development

Step 4: Redesign Program Structure

  • Map units to EA Stage 1 Competency Standards

  • Ensure clear progression from Diploma to Advanced Diploma (no unit duplication)

  • Include a mandatory ethics unit (CPPCOM4001) and sustainability components

  • Plan capstone project integration (preferably RIICWD601E)

Step 5: Develop Assessment Strategy

  • Create authentic assessments aligned with performance criteria

  • Include diagnostic, formative, and summative assessment methods

  • Design professional practice component (minimum 30 days equivalent)

  • Implement moderation and validation processes

Step 6: Establish Quality Systems

  • Set up a formal advisory committee with industry representatives

  • Create learner feedback mechanisms and survey instruments

  • Develop continuous improvement processes and documentation systems

  • Establish benchmarking practices with comparable programs

Phase 3: Infrastructure & Resources

Step 7: Upgrade Facilities & Equipment

  • Ensure laboratories support hands-on, investigatory learning

  • Provide access to current industry software and simulation tools

  • Verify accessibility for learners with disabilities

  • Document equipment maintenance and replacement plans

Step 8: Develop Documentation

  • Create comprehensive unit mapping matrices

  • Prepare learner and assessor guides with clear performance criteria alignment

  • Document training and assessment strategies (TAS)

  • Establish record-keeping systems for audit readiness

Phase 4: Stakeholder Engagement

Step 9: Build Industry Partnerships

  • Establish a formal advisory committee with senior industry representatives

  • Develop workplace placement partnerships for professional practice

  • Create guest lecturer and industry expert networks

  • Document stakeholder feedback and program improvement responses

Step 10: Implement Pilot Programs

  • Test program delivery with small cohorts

  • Collect learner feedback and assessment validation data

  • Refine processes based on pilot outcomes

  • Document continuous improvement actions

Phase 5: Application & Evaluation

Step 11: Prepare EA Application

  • Compile a comprehensive documentation package

  • Include mapping evidence, staff profiles, and facility descriptions

  • Provide stakeholder engagement records and quality assurance evidence

  • Submit the application with the required fees

Step 12: Support Evaluation Process

  • Facilitate site visits and evaluation panel meetings

  • Present evidence of compliance across all three pillars

  • Respond to panel queries and requests for additional information

  • Implement any required improvements identified during evaluation

Phase 6: Ongoing Compliance

Step 13: Maintain Accreditation Standards

  • Conduct annual program reviews with stakeholder input

  • Monitor learner outcomes and industry feedback

  • Update curriculum based on industry changes

  • Prepare for 6-year accreditation renewal

Step 14: Continuous Quality Improvement

  • Regular assessment validation and moderation

  • Staff professional development programs

  • Facility and equipment updates

  • Benchmarking with other accredited programs

Key Success Factors

✅ Early Planning: Start preparation well in advance of the intended accreditation 

✅ Adequate Resourcing: Budget for staff, facilities, and external support 

✅ Industry Engagement: Establish genuine partnerships, not token consultation 

✅ Documentation: Maintain comprehensive, traceable evidence 

✅ Professional Support: Consider CAQA Resources for compliant materials and guidance

Need Help?

For comprehensive resources and support throughout this process:

  • Email: info@caqa.com.au 

  • Website: www.caqaresources.com.au

  • Services: Gap analysis, program development, assessment tools, mapping documents, and ongoing compliance support