BKSB Digital Literacy Requirements for RTOs and Compliance Under New Australian Standards
The Australian vocational education and training (VET) sector is undergoing rapid transformation, driven by technology and evolving compliance requirements. Registered Training Organisations (RTOs) must ensure that learners are equipped with the digital literacy skills necessary to succeed in both study and the workplace. The BKSB (Basic Key Skills Builder) assessment has become a critical tool for measuring learners’ core skills, including digital literacy. With the introduction of new Australian standards, RTOs must align their compliance strategies with these requirements to maintain registration and deliver high-quality training.
Why Digital Literacy Matters for RTOs
Digital literacy is no longer optional—it is essential. The modern workforce relies on digital tools for communication, collaboration, problem-solving, and productivity. For RTOs, embedding digital literacy within training and assessment ensures learners are job-ready and capable of adapting to workplace technologies.
The Australian Government has highlighted digital skills as a core component of workforce development, linking them to economic growth and employability. According to the National Skills Commission, digital literacy is now considered a foundation skill, alongside reading, writing, numeracy, and learning agility.
BKSB and Digital Literacy Assessments
The BKSB assessment is widely used across RTOs to evaluate learners’ proficiency in literacy, numeracy, and digital literacy. It provides a diagnostic tool that identifies strengths and areas for improvement, helping trainers to design tailored learning plans.
Key features of BKSB digital literacy assessments include:
- Baseline testing: Identifies initial competency levels.
- Adaptive learning: Adjusts to the learner’s performance, providing a personalised experience.
- Mapped outcomes: Aligns with the Australian Core Skills Framework (ACSF) and the Digital Literacy Skills Framework.
For RTOs, the data generated from BKSB is invaluable in demonstrating compliance with Standards for RTOs 2015 and ensuring that training meets learner needs.
Compliance Under the New Australian Standards
Recent updates to compliance frameworks mean that RTOs must place greater emphasis on foundation skills, including digital literacy. Key compliance considerations include:
1. Standards for RTOs 2015
The Standards for RTOs 2015 require that training providers support learners with the skills needed to complete their training. Digital literacy testing through BKSB helps RTOs identify learners at risk and implement support strategies.
2. Australian Core Skills Framework (ACSF)
Digital literacy is now integrated into the ACSF, making it part of the core skills that RTOs must assess and address.
3. VET Quality Framework
Compliance with the VET Quality Framework requires evidence that training and assessment practices meet industry and learner needs. Using BKSB demonstrates a systematic approach to evaluating and developing digital skills.
4. ASQA Compliance Focus
The Australian Skills Quality Authority (ASQA) has highlighted the importance of foundation skills in audits. RTOs that fail to assess and support digital literacy risk non-compliance and possible sanctions.
Best Practices for RTOs Implementing BKSB
To ensure compliance and learner success, RTOs should adopt the following best practices:
- Integrate digital literacy into all training programs rather than treating it as a standalone requirement.
- Use BKSB results for personalised support plans, targeting learners who need additional assistance.
- Maintain accurate compliance records, demonstrating how BKSB assessments inform training strategies.
- Engage trainers in professional development, ensuring they understand how to interpret BKSB data and integrate digital skills into teaching.
- Leverage internal resources and external authority guidance, such as the Australian Government’s Digital Skills Organisation.
Internal and External Linking for RTO Websites
For RTO websites, internal linking should connect BKSB and compliance information to related pages such as:
- Course information pages
- Student support services
- Compliance and quality assurance policies
External linking to reputable sources—such as ASQA and the National Skills Commission—reinforces trustworthiness and supports E-E-A-T principles.
Optimising Page Experience and Engagement
Beyond content, page experience impacts compliance communications and learner engagement. RTOs should:
- Ensure websites are mobile-friendly and fast-loading.
- Present information with clear headings, bullet points, and visuals for readability.
- Use interactive features (e.g., BKSB demo links or digital literacy quizzes) to keep learners engaged.
Conclusion
BKSB digital literacy assessments are a vital component for RTOs striving to remain compliant under the new Australian standards. By embedding digital literacy into training delivery, aligning with compliance frameworks, and leveraging BKSB data, RTOs can ensure that learners are equipped with the skills they need for success. Compliance is not just about meeting regulatory requirements—it is about preparing learners for the realities of today’s digital-first workforce.
