Regulatory authorities across Australia have identified staffing as a priority area, with a strong focus on ensuring educators hold valid, authentic qualifications. Unfortunately, fraudulent certificates continue to circulate, and some are sophisticated enough to fool even experienced leaders.
This article gives you a clear, practical guide to:
- How to verify qualifications
- Common red flags to watch for
- How to check an RTO properly
- What to do if you suspect or confirm a fake qualification
- How to strengthen your recruitment process
Qualification Verification Checklist
A simple, consistent process protects your service. Every time you sight a qualification, check:
1. RTO Name and RTO Code
- Confirm the RTO exists
- Ensure the name and code match the certificate
2. RTO Registration Status
- Is the RTO currently registered?
- Was it registered at the time the qualification was issued?
3. Qualification Code
- Does the code match a real qualification?
- Is it within the RTO’s scope of registration?
4. Issue Date
- Was the RTO still operating on that date?
- Does the date align with the student’s work history?
5. Transcript
- A genuine qualification always has a transcript
- Units should match the qualification requirements
6. Formatting and Details
- Spelling, layout, logos, and signatures should be consistent
- Check for unusual fonts or mismatched branding
7. Evidence of Identity
- Ensure the name on the certificate matches ID documents
8. Keep Records
- Save screenshots or PDFs of your verification
- Record who checked it and when
Common Red Flags in Fake Qualifications
Fraudulent certificates often share similar warning signs. Watch for:
- Issue date after the RTO was cancelled
- Incorrect or outdated qualification codes
- No transcript provided
- RTO name doesn’t match the RTO code
- Spelling errors or inconsistent formatting
- Logos that don’t match official branding
- Signatures that look copied or pixelated
- Unusual paper quality or low‑resolution printing
- A qualification issued extremely quickly (e.g., a diploma in 2–4 weeks)
If something feels “off,” it usually is.
How to Check an RTO on Training.gov.au
Training.gov.au (TGA) is the official national register. It’s your most reliable verification tool.
Step-by-step
- Go to training.gov.au
- Enter the RTO code or RTO name
- Check:
- Registration status
- Scope of registration
- Dates of registration
- Search the qualification code
- Confirm the RTO was approved to deliver that qualification at the time it was issued
What you’re looking for
- “Current” registration
- Qualification listed under “Scope”
- “Registration period” that covers the issue date
If the RTO was cancelled before the certificate date, the qualification is not valid.
What to Do If a Prospective Employee Has a Fake Qualification
If you suspect or confirm a fraudulent qualification:
1. Do Not Proceed With Employment
A person cannot work in a qualified role without a valid qualification.
2. Document Everything
Record:
- What you found
- How you verified it
- Screenshots from TGA
3. Notify the Applicant
Use neutral, factual language such as: “During our verification process, we were unable to confirm the validity of your qualification.” Avoid accusations—stick to evidence.
4. Report to the Regulatory Authority
This protects:
- Children
- Your service
- The sector
Regulators take this seriously and may investigate.
5. Review Your Recruitment Processes
A fake qualification is often a sign that your screening steps need strengthening.
Strengthening Your Recruitment Process
To reduce risk:
- Always verify qualifications before offering employment
Never rely on sighting a certificate alone.
- Request transcripts as standard practice
This filters out many fraudulent applicants immediately.
- Use structured interview questions
Ask about:
- Units they studied
- Practical placement experiences
- Key concepts from the qualification
People with fake qualifications often cannot answer confidently.
- Contact referees directly
Use workplace numbers, not mobile numbers provided by the applicant.
- Keep a centralised verification record
This helps during:
- Spot checks
- Assessment & Rating
- Compliance visits
Fake qualifications undermine the safety and integrity of early childhood education. By embedding strong verification processes into recruitment, services protect children, uphold professional standards, and meet regulatory expectations.
A consistent, documented approach ensures you never miss a red flag—and never unknowingly employ someone who is not qualified to care for children.
When a person presents a fake qualification, it isn’t just a paperwork issue—it’s a child safety risk, a regulatory breach, and a serious threat to service quality.
Further Reading
Fake Qualifications in Early Childhood Education
Fraudulent and Improper Qualifications In Childcare
Over 10,000 Early Childhood Education and Care Qualifications Revoked In 2024
Detecting Fast-Tracked Early Childhood Qualifications in Interviews
Fake Qualifications Are Out There, Early Childhood Education and Care—Queensland