How is generative AI reshaping the VET sector?

Australia’s Vocational Education and Training (VET) sector has long played a critical role in building a skilled workforce and contributing to the national economy. However, with the rise of generative AI technologies, the integrity of VET qualifications is facing an urgent new challenge

A Threat to Trust and Quality

Generative AI is capable of producing human like text, images, and other outputs . It has made it increasingly difficult to distinguish authentic student work from AI generated content. In a sector where assessments are foundational to certification and employability, this presents serious risks:

• Loss of trust in VET qualifications from employers and industry
  
• Compromised assessment practices leading to unqualified graduates
  
• Risks to business performance, safety, and compliance in industries reliant on VET trained staff
  
• Potential damage to Australia’s international education reputation
  

Real World Implications for RTOs and Employers

Employers depend on the credibility of qualifications to ensure that new hires are ready for job. If AI generated work leads to the certification of underqualified individuals, it can result in:

• Increased training and supervision costs
  
• Operational errors and inefficiencies
  
• Safety incidents in regulated industries like construction and healthcare
  
• Legal liability and reputational risk

For international students and markets, the perception of weak assessment integrity could also erode trust in Australia’s education system, which has historically been a multi billion dollar export sector.

What can the VET Sector Do?

To safeguard the value of qualifications and maintain compliance, RTOs must proactively adapt. Key strategies include:

• Implementing advanced plagiarism and AI detection tools
  
• Shifting toward practical, hands on assessments that are AI resistant
  
• Updating assessment methodologies regularly to stay ahead of misuse
  
• Embedding training on academic integrity and AI ethics into staff development programs
  

Upholding the Value of VET

Generative AI isn’t going away, but neither is the importance of credible, compliant training. With dynamic strategies, the VET sector can lead the way in maintaining trust and quality while responsibly embracing innovation.