That’s exactly why RPL certification in Australia is gaining traction across industries. Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) isn’t just a fast-tracked alternative to study—it’s becoming a respected, employer-recognised pathway for those who’ve built their experience hands-on.
And in 2025, that’s not just a trend. It’s a shift in how we value learning, qualification, and career progression, especially across trades like tiling, painting, decorating, and construction.
How RPL is gaining traction in the workplace
For a long time, there was a perception that RPL was somehow “less than” traditional study. But that’s changing—fast.
Why? Because employers have seen what happens when experience meets formal recognition. An employee who’s been working the trade for years but finally gets their certificate III in painting and decorating through RPL? Suddenly, they’re eligible for contracts, insurance, supervision roles—and their confidence goes through the roof.
In today’s tight labour market, businesses can’t afford to overlook skilled workers just because they don’t have a certificate on paper. Employer recognised RPL means those who’ve “done the job” get a chance to formalise that knowledge, and move forward.
According to the National Centre for Vocational Education Research, employers are increasingly prioritising practical, demonstrated skills. RPL fits neatly into that model, offering proof that a worker’s knowledge isn’t theoretical—it’s been tested in real conditions.
Hiring managers and the shift to skills-based evaluation
Think about the last time you hired—or were hired—for a role. Did a certificate alone seal the deal? Probably not.
Employers want proof of:
- Hands-on experience
- Task-specific skills
- Compliance with safety and regulatory standards
- The ability to supervise, communicate, and lead
RPL fills that gap beautifully. Instead of starting from scratch, workers provide a portfolio of real-world evidence—photos, videos, references, work samples. Assessors evaluate that against national training standards, and if it stacks up? The qualification is issued.
That’s why more companies now view RPL certification in Australia as a smart investment—not just for individuals, but for teams. From construction firms to painting contractors, it’s often cheaper and faster to help a good worker get qualified through RPL than to hire and train someone new.
It’s also a morale booster. When tradies know their hard-earned skills are valued, they stick around—and step up.
Job titles you can secure with RPL certification
Wondering where career growth with RPL might lead?
Here are a few roles where getting your skills recognised can open new doors:
Site Supervisor (with Builder’s Licence NSW)
Worked your way up on residential builds? Been managing subcontractors and reading site plans for years? RPL can help you qualify for a builder’s licence in NSW via a Certificate IV in Building and Construction.
With that licence, you could:
- Supervise jobs without relying on someone else’s licence
- Start your own construction business
- Bid on higher-value projects
Qualified Tiler (Certificate III in Wall and Floor Tiling)
If you’ve been laying tiles in bathrooms, kitchens, and commercial spaces but never got your cert, now’s the time. With RPL, you could gain your Certificate III in Wall and Floor Tiling (CPC31320) in a matter of weeks—no need to repeat work you already know how to do.
Senior Painter or Crew Leader (Certificate III in Painting and Decorating)
Have you trained apprentices, handled quoting, and tackled every painting surface under the sun? That qualifies as evidence. Painting and decorating RPL (CPC30620) can get you the formal credentials to take on more leadership, land commercial contracts, or mentor others in your field.
Case study: From worksite to licence via RPL
Let’s talk about Joe*—not his real name, but a real story.
Joe had been working in construction for over 12 years, mainly under the license of his employer. He supervised crews, handled safety reports, and knew the Building Code back to front—but he never qualified.
He wanted to apply for his own builder’s licence in NSW, but the paperwork was a problem. Full-time study wasn’t an option. That’s when he discovered Skills Certified and the RPL process.
Joe submitted:
- Photos of completed jobs
- Letters from employers
- Copies of safety audits he’d managed
- Client invoices and ABN records
- A timeline of his work experience
Within six weeks, Joe was awarded his Certificate IV in Building and Construction. Two months later, he was approved for his builder’s licence. Today, he runs his own residential construction company—and hires RPL-qualified workers to join him.
That’s not just a career upgrade. That’s a whole life shift.
Is RPL right for your next step?
If you’ve ever thought, “I could do that job—but I don’t have the ticket,” RPL might be the solution you didn’t know existed.
RPL certification in Australia is now widely accepted, backed by employers, and increasingly seen as a fast track to meaningful career growth. Whether you want a pay rise, a licence, or just the recognition you’ve earned over years of hard work, RPL can help get you there.
And if you’re not sure where to start? Skills Certified can help you figure out which qualification matches your experience, what documents you’ll need, and how to apply.
You’ve already done the work. Now it’s time to own it.
Check your eligibility today and take the next step with confidence.
