Corporate & Commercial Advisory

Beyond disputes and compliance, RTOs need robust commercial agreements and governance frameworks. We act as trusted corporate counsel for RTOs, providing advice tailored to the education sector’s needs.

Focus areas include:

  
    Transactions Involving RTOs We assist with the sale or acquisition of RTO businesses (share sales or asset transfers). Our team performs due diligence mindful of ASQA requirements and prepares transaction documents that address regulatory notifications (e.g. change of ownership)[17]. We also handle mergers, joint ventures, and investment agreements involving training organisations. 
Contracts & Procurement Drafting and reviewing the full suite of contracts an RTO might need. This includes third-party delivery agreements (with partner RTOs or non-RTO training partners), agent or broker agreements, service contracts for trainers/assessors, supplier agreements for educational resources, and more[18]. We ensure these contracts protect your interests and comply with Standards for RTOs and the National Code (if applicable). 
Governance & Risk Management Advising boards and owners on governance structures that meet both corporate law and ASQA expectations. We help define clear decision-making frameworks, risk registers, conflict of interest policies, and board charters that align with Quality Area 7 (governance and administration). 
Privacy & Data Security Guidance on compliance with the Privacy Act and data protection, including obligations under the Student Identifiers Act and the Notifiable Data Breaches (NDB) scheme[19]. We help RTOs implement privacy policies, consent forms, and data breach response plans to safeguard student and staff information.
Competition & Consumer Law Ensuring your marketing and student recruitment practices comply with the ACL. We advise on appropriate disclaimers, avoiding misleading claims, and fair refund terms. We also handle issues related to the use of NRT and AQF logos, and any advertising restrictions specific to training providers 

Our commercial advisory work is highly attuned to the VET regulatory context – we don’t give generic advice in a vacuum. Instead, we shape every contract and policy to fit both legal requirements and the practical realities of running a compliant RTO. Whether you are expanding your college, entering a new partnership, or strengthening internal processes, we help set you up for sustainable success. 

  