Currency is one of the four Rules of Evidence. It asks a simple question: does your evidence show what you can do now? It is also one of the most common reasons people end up with a partial RPL outcome, so it is worth understanding before you start.
There is no single national time limit
People often ask whether evidence has to be from the last two years, or five. There is no single rule that applies across every qualification. What counts as current depends on:
- the unit itself: some units or training packages state how recent evidence must be
- how fast the industry changes: technology, legislation and standards move faster in some fields than others
- licensing or regulatory requirements: these may set their own timeframes
- the RTO's assessment policy: many RTOs set guidance for each qualification, often looking for recent evidence of the skills in use
Ask the RTO what it considers current for your qualification before you collect evidence.
Why older experience still matters
Older experience is not wasted. Years in an industry build depth, judgement and a track record that recent evidence alone may not show. An assessor will often look at your whole history, then look for something recent that confirms you can still do the work to today's standard.
For example, someone who worked as a bookkeeper ten years ago and has used similar skills in a volunteer treasurer role more recently may be able to show currency through the volunteer work, combined with knowledge of current rules.
Where currency is most likely to be a problem
- Legislation and compliance: tax, work health and safety, privacy and industry regulations change. Knowledge from years ago may now be out of date.
- Technology and equipment: software, machinery and systems change quickly.
- Safety-critical skills: first aid, CPR, plant operation and similar skills usually need recent demonstration.
- Long breaks from the industry: if you have been out of the field for some time, expect to show recent skills.
How to show your skills are current
- Recent work samples: even a small number of recent examples can support a longer history.
- Recent professional development: short courses, workshops, webinars or industry updates you have completed.
- A current third-party report: a supervisor or client who has seen you work recently.
- A practical demonstration: showing the skill to an assessor now is direct evidence of currency.
- Volunteer or unpaid work: current skills used outside paid employment can count.
- The competency conversation: talking about current practices, rules and tools shows your knowledge is up to date.
If your evidence is not current
You still have options. The RTO may ask for a practical assessment, a short workplace task or a refresher. In some cases, a few units may need gap training. This is not a judgement on your experience. It is about making sure your qualification reflects what you can do today, which is what employers rely on.
A quick check before you start
For each unit, ask yourself: when did I last do this, and could I show someone doing it today? If the answer for a unit is "a long time ago", plan how you will show it is current before you submit.
For more on building a strong portfolio, read how much evidence you need for RPL.