Meat Processing, General, Quality and Safety Skills Project
Menu: Click across the green arrows to view active and completed project stages. Consultation takes place at every stage of the project.Case for change
The AMP Meat Training Package has undergone a series of small changes over the last five years, designed to meet specific industry needs. While carrying out this work, it has become apparent that the full training package requires a review to meet the updated priorities in the Training Package Development and Endorsement Process Policy and Training Package Standards. As such the Meat Industry Reference Committee (IRC) has proposed a three part project to conduct a full review of the training package, including all 24 qualifications, 446 units of competency and 75 skill sets. In consultation with industry, they will be updated to meet Training Package Standards and improve user friendliness for employers, learners and registered training providers (RTOs). This work will reduce duplication across the training package, improve the ability for employers and learners to choose the appropriate program of learning, and will simplify RTO delivery. This project is the first stage and will include the review of all general meat processing qualifications and the units of competency supporting core skills across the industry.
The Australian Industry Skills Committee (AISC) approved stage one of this project, out of the 2021 Annual Update IRC Skills Forecast and Proposed Schedule of Work.
The Meat Industry Reference Committee (IRC) will oversee this project as part of their responsibility to support engagement with the sector, and to ensure the project meets industry stakeholder needs.
The Australian Industry Skills Committee (AISC) approved this project, out of the Annual Update IRC Skills Forecast and Proposed Schedule of Work.
Skills Impact and the Meat Industry Reference Committee (IRC) will oversee this project, consistent with the 2012 Standards for Training Package Development.
Download Project Proposal (see page 16)
Project Plan
Australia’s meat processing workforce is made up of an estimated 69,000 highly skilled people, who contribute $45.2bn of revenue annually. In producing high quality meat products for local and global consumers, this workforce relies on a combination of core skills in safety, quality assurance, and leadership. It is important that the qualifications and skills standards that describe these core skills are kept up to date, as they are critical to job roles across the entire meat processing industry.
Consultation will take place throughout this project to update qualifications and units of competency that support quality assurance, safety, leadership and general skills in the meat processing industry. They will be reviewed and streamlined to promote flexible career pathways and transferability throughout different sectors. Consideration will also be given to updating the qualifications and skills standards to be in line with current Training Package Standards, so that industry can continue to have access to nationally recognised and supported training and apprenticeships.
Recent projects to update qualifications and skills standards across the meat processing industry have focused on skills needs in specialist roles, such as those within halal meat processing, game harvesting auditing, poultry, meat slicing, and rendering, as well as leadership occupations. It has become apparent throughout these projects that the entire AMP Meat Training Package would benefit from a review to address duplication, adjust units to better reflect the level of task described, and remove skills standards that are no longer working for industry. This project is the first of a three-part process to update the Meat Training Package so that it supports flexible career pathways and is easier to deliver. More specialised industry skills standards that have not been recently reviewed will make up the following two stages of this project.
This project will be managed by Skills Impact working with MINTRAC, under the guidance of the Meat Industry Reference Committee.
Project Scope
This project will review the Certificate III in Meat Safety, Certificate III in Quality Assurance, Certificate IV in Meat Safety, Certificate IV in Quality Assurance and Certificate IV in Leadership qualifications and 125 units, with a focus on the core units required for these qualifications.
Specialisations or job role streams may be built into qualifications, to support flexible training pathways and remove duplication in the training system. This will also allow for groupings of job roles at relevant AQF levels within single qualifications.
Download a mapping image of the proposed qualification structure
Relevant Occupations
- Meat inspector/safety
- Quality assurance
- Leadership positions
- Various general meat processing roles
Project Team
| Lucinda O’Brien | Industry Skills Standards Manager | [email protected] |
| Don Jones | Training and Industry Engagement Lead, MINTRAC | |
| Jenni Oldfield | Industry Skills Standard Contractor |
Timeline
July – August 2021
Initial scoping
September – mid November 2021
Development of draft qualifications and units
Mid November 2021 – January 2022
Drafts available for broad consultation
June 2022
Validation of final drafts
July 2022
Finalisation of Training Package components
August 2022
Independent Quality Assurance, and Edit and Equity review of Training Package components
September 2022
IRC consideration for sign-off and submission for endorsement
Subject Matter Experts
Subject Matter Experts will be drawn on throughout this project to help review and draft the revised units and qualifications.
If you are able to volunteer your time to this project and would like to express interest to be a subject matter expert, please email details of your expertise to Lucinda O’Brien [email protected]
Opportunities for stakeholder input
Stakeholder input is essential throughout the duration of this project. The documents will be drafted in consultation with Subject Matter Experts and their networks. Opportunities to provide targeted feedback will occur when the draft materials are made available late November 2021, and again for validation of final drafts in June 2022. However, your feedback is welcomed at any time, and will help us in drafting the qualifications and units. It is important that training provides a skilled and flexible workforce for the future. The qualifications and units need to reflect real work experience. So if you work in the sector, Skills Impact and MINTRAC encourage and appreciate your input. Please feel free to register your interest for project updates and consultation opportunities by following the newsletter subscription link above. Alternatively, please feel free to contact Lucinda O’Brien [email protected].
You are also welcome to subscribe to the MINTRAC newsletter, the MINTRACker.
Stakeholder Consultation Process
A list of key stakeholder organisations has been identified for this project. Skills Impact and MINTRAC will ensure contact is made with each of these organisations to seek their involvement and their views on the draft qualifications and units.
If you are aware of an organisation that you think should be involved, please contact the project team to ensure they are contacted by us.
Of course, all interested industry participants are encouraged to engage in the consultation of this project, when the draft qualifications and units are available for feedback via this webpage and any other engagement activities. Consultation is not limited to the organisations on this list. This list simply helps us to identify those organisations that, because of their industry role, size or specialty, are likely to have a key interest in the development and outcomes of this project.
Development
The Australian meat processing industry relies on core skills in safety, quality assurance, and leadership to produce high quality meat products for local and global consumers. These skills are crucial for the entire industry, so it is important that the qualifications and skills standards that support them are up to date. This project will revise qualifications and units of competency to incorporate these essential skills.
A group of subject matter experts have been engaged to provide advice on the skills standard across six potential specialisations or job role streams, including:
- tracking and traceability
- meat inspection
- quality/food safety
- leadership/management
- operator skills/abattoirs
- game.
The subject matter experts have begun reviewing 125 units, as well as the:
- Certificate III in Meat Safety
- Certificate III in Quality Assurance
- Certificate III General
- Certificate IV in Meat Safety
- Certificate IV in Quality Assurance
- Certificate IV in Leadership
- Certificate IV General
Consideration has been given to updating job functions; reducing duplication; removing obsolete and under-utilised qualifications and units of competency, and those that do not comply with the current Training Package Standards, to improve RTO delivery and support increased enrolments. Updating the qualifications and units to incorporate specialisations or job role streams will support future work to improve the full Australian Meat Processing (AMP) Training Package. Specialist streams can be added to general or baseline qualifications, as required by industry.
Consultation Webinars – Registrations Open!
The draft qualifications and units are expected to be available for comment on this website in late November 2021, under the ‘Drafts Available’ menu above. We welcome your feedback and advice on the draft skills standards in this time. Please feel free to subscribe to our newsletter to keep informed of project updates and when drafts are available for feedback. There is also an opportunity to register for a consultation webinar, where you will have the opportunity to discuss the drafts with the project team and other individuals from your industry.
These webinars will focus on addressing the skills and knowledge required for work activities undertaken by Meat Inspectors/Safety and Quality Assurance Officers, and leadership and general skills in the meat processing industry.
- Tuesday 30 November 2021, 11am to 1pm AEST
- Wednesday 1 December 2021, 11am to 1pm AEST
- Thursday 2 December 2021, 3pm to 5pm AEST
- Thursday 9 December 2021, 3pm to 5pm AEST
- Wednesday 19 January 2022, 3pm to 5pm AEST
Training Delivery Webinars
Webinars are also being held specifically for stakeholders interested in discussing training delivery and assessment of the draft skills standards. Please register below.
Drafts Available
Core skills in safety, quality assurance, and leadership are essential to the Australian meat processing industry and its workforce of approximately 70,000 people. As such it is important that the qualifications and skills standards that describe these skills are kept up to date, supporting job roles across the entire meat processing industry.
Thank you to everyone who provided feedback on the draft qualifications and units of competency that were made available on this webpage from 11 November 2021 until 31 January 2022. Feedback received on the initial drafts indicated further significant changes were required for the qualifications and some units. Updated versions of these qualifications and units were made available for feedback from 21 February until 21 March 2022. The documents as they appeared at both of these stages and any comments made are available to view below.
All documents are now being prepared for validation, which is scheduled to take place in May. During this time you will have another chance to provide input on all qualifications and units that are part of this project. Summaries of the feedback received at each stage and how it was addressed in the final drafts will also be available.
Feedback Collected From 21 February Until 21 March 2022
Feedback was sought on whether the additional changes made based on your input reflect the current skills standards and practices of industry, and whether job functions are accurately described.
Key changes include:
- The Certificate III and IV meat safety qualifications were reviewed as separate qualifications. Initially, the safety qualifications were proposed to be replaced with specialisations in safety in the meat processing qualifications at the same level. However, industry feedback indicated that the separate qualifications in meat safety were needed to describe distinct job roles and regulatory requirements.
- Based on industry feedback, two units for micro meat processing premises were developed for the Certificate III in Meat Safety Inspection. For the purposes of these units, a micro meat processing premises is defined by the controlling authority, and as a guide, as operating less than four days a week with a small throughput for one or more species or employing fewer than five workers on the slaughter floor. These units apply to individuals who carry out work as a meat inspector or a meat safety officer in a micro meat processing premises where meat is processed for the Australian domestic market. They must only be selected for workers in micro meat processing plants when 100 hours of performance evidence for assessment is unachievable within a reasonable timeframe. The two units can be found under the heading ‘meat safety’ in the accordions below:
- AMPMSY4X14 Conduct ante and post-mortem inspection in micro meat processing premises
- AMPMSY4X15 Conduct post-mortem inspection in micro meat processing premises – Wild game
- Several units that were proposed for deletion were retained on the basis they are still required by industry. These units underwent review to bring them in line with the current Standards for Training Packages 2012.
- Some units underwent significant changes, such as title changes, the addition or retention of prerequisites which had previously been proposed for removal, and the retention of separate units where they were previously proposed for merging.
- An updated list of 11 units were proposed for deletion.
For more detailed explanations of the changes made based on feedback received between 11 November 2021 and 31 January 2022, please download the Draft 2 Summary of Changes Document.
Online consultation sessions
Online consultation sessions have been held, where participants had the opportunity to discuss the revised and developed units with the project team and other individuals from your industry.
A recording of the webinar held on 3 March 2022 is available below. Please note the recording has been edited to remove comments by participants, to support their privacy.
You may also wish to download a copy of the slides
The qualifications were revised and meat safety was retained in separate qualifications at a Certificate III and IV level. These were previously proposed to be replaced with specialisations in the meat processing qualifications.
| Qualification code and name | Proposed changes or rationale | Link |
| AMP303X22 Certificate III in Meat Safety Inspection | Two micro meat inspection units added. | View draft qualification |
| AMP306X22 Certificate III in Meat Processing | This qualification offers a specialisation in Quality. Packaging rules updated. Core units and elective lists updated. | View draft qualification |
| AMP402X22 Certificate IV in Meat Processing | This qualification offers specialisations in:
Packaging rules updated. Core units and elective lists updated. | View draft qualification |
| AMP405X22 Certificate IV in Meat Safety Inspection | Reviewed as stand alone qualification. Previously proposed for replacement with specialisation within the Certificate III in Meat Safety. | View draft qualification |
The draft documents can be downloaded in Microsoft Word format by clicking here
| Unit code and name | Proposed changes or rationale | Link |
| AMPAUD4X1 Conduct an animal welfare audit of a meat processing premises | Unit title updated. Prerequisites returned and equivalence status updated. | View draft unit |
The draft documents can be downloaded in Microsoft Word format by clicking here
| Unit code and name | Proposed changes or rationale | Link |
| AMPCOM3X1 Communicate effectively at work | New unit, reworked to focus on general communication skills. Title updated. | View draft unit |
The draft documents can be downloaded in Microsoft Word format by clicking here
| Unit code and name | Proposed changes or rationale | Link |
| AMPLDR4X6 Foster a learning culture in a meat enterprise | Unit previously proposed for deletion, but retained due to industry need. Unit code updated. Foundation Skills added. Performance Evidence, Knowledge evidence and Assessment Conditions revised. | View draft unit |
The draft documents can be downloaded in Microsoft Word format by clicking here
| Unit code and name | Proposed changes or rationale | Link |
| AMPLSK3X2 Assess cattle according to industry standards | Unit code updated. Title changed. Performance Criteria clarified. Foundation skills added. Performance Evidence, Knowledge evidence and Assessment Conditions updated. | View draft unit |
| AMPLSK3X3 Assess sheep and lambs according to industry standards | Unit code updated. Title changed. Performance Criteria clarified. Foundation skills added. Performance Evidence, Knowledge evidence and Assessment Conditions updated. | View draft unit |
The draft documents can be downloaded in Microsoft Word format by clicking here
| Unit code and name | Proposed changes or rationale | Link |
| AMPMSY3X2 Recognise signs of emergency animal diseases | Title changed. Changes made to unit application and Knowledge Evidence. Performance Criteria updated. References to specific species removed throughout. Specificity about particular diseases added. Performance Evidence updated. | View draft unit |
| AMPMSY3X3 Conduct ante-mortem inspection and make disposition | Unit code and title updated. Performance Criteria clarified and duplication removed. Foundation skills added. Performance Evidence, Knowledge evidence and Assessment Conditions revised. | View draft unit |
| AMPMSY4X1 Perform ante and post-mortem inspection – Ovine and Caprine | Prerequisite returned and equivalence status updated. Performance Criteria, Foundation Skills, Performance Evidence, Knowledge Evidence and Assessment Conditions updated. | View draft unit |
| AMPMSY4X2 Perform ante and post-mortem inspection – Bovine | Calves added (more than 50kg dressed weight). Prerequisite returned and equivalence status updated. Performance Criteria updated, Foundation Skills, Performance Evidence, Knowledge Evidence and Assessment Conditions updated. | View draft unit |
| AMPMSY4X3 Perform ante and post-mortem inspection – Porcine | Prerequisite returned and equivalence status updated. Performance Criteria, Foundation Skills, Performance Evidence, Knowledge Evidence and Assessment Conditions updated. | View draft unit |
| AMPMSY4X4 Perform ante and post-mortem inspection – Poultry | Prerequisite returned and equivalence status updated. Performance Criteria, Foundation Skills, Performance Evidence, Knowledge Evidence and Assessment Conditions updated. | View draft unit |
| AMPMSY4X5 Perform ante and post-mortem inspection – Ratites | Prerequisite returned and equivalence status updated. Performance Criteria, Foundation Skills, Performance Evidence, Knowledge Evidence and Assessment Conditions updated. | View draft unit |
| AMPMSY4X6 Perform ante and post-mortem inspection – Camels | Prerequisite returned and equivalence status updated. Performance Criteria, Foundation Skills, Performance Evidence, Knowledge Evidence and Assessment Conditions updated. | View draft unit |
| AMPMSY4X8 Perform ante and post-mortem inspection – Rabbits | Prerequisite returned and equivalence status updated. Performance Criteria, Foundation Skills, Performance Evidence, Knowledge Evidence and Assessment Conditions updated. | View draft unit |
| AMPMSY4X9 Perform ante and post-mortem inspection – Deer | Prerequisite returned and equivalence status updated. Performance Criteria, Foundation Skills, Performance Evidence, Knowledge Evidence and Assessment Conditions updated. | View draft unit |
| AMPMSY4X10 Perform ante and post-mortem inspection – Horses | Prerequisite returned and equivalence status updated. Performance Criteria, Foundation Skills, Performance Evidence, Knowledge Evidence and Assessment Conditions updated. | View draft unit |
| AMPMSY4X11 Perform ante and post-mortem inspection – Alpacas or Llamas | Prerequisite returned and equivalence status updated. Performance Criteria, Foundation Skills, Performance Evidence, Knowledge Evidence and Assessment Conditions updated. | View draft unit |
| AMPMSY4X12 Perform ante and post-mortem inspection – Calves | Definition of calves added (less than 50kg dressed weight). Prerequisite returned and equivalence status updated. Performance Criteria, Foundation Skills, Performance Evidence, Knowledge Evidence and Assessment Conditions updated. | View draft unit |
| AMPMSY4X13 Recognise diseases and conditions during inspection of food animal | New unit. Unit title and application updated. References to LDL removed from Elements and assessment Conditions. Element 3 removed. Performance Criteria added. | View draft unit |
| AMPMSY4X14 Conduct ante and post-mortem inspection in micro meat processing premises | New unit developed based on feedback from industry about specific skills requited for job roles in micro meat processing premises. It applies to individuals who carry out work as a meat inspector or a meat safety officer in a micro meat processing premises where meat is processed for the Australian domestic market. Feedback is welcomed about the definition of a ‘micro meat processing premises’. | View draft unit |
| AMPMSY4X15 Conduct post-mortem inspection in micro meat processing premises – Wild game | New unit developed based on feedback from industry about specific skills requited for job roles in micro meat processing premises when working with wild game. It applies to individuals who carry out work as a meat inspector or a meat safety officer in a micro meat processing premises where meat is processed for the Australian domestic market. Feedback is welcomed about the definition of a ‘micro meat processing premises’. | View draft unit |
| AMPMSY4X16 Raise and validate requests for export permits and Meat Transfer Certificates | Unit previously proposed for deletion, but retained due to industry need. Unit code updated. Performance Criteria clarified. Foundation Skills added. Performance Evidence, Knowledge Evidence and Assessment Conditions revised. | View draft unit |
The draft documents can be downloaded in Microsoft Word format by clicking here
| Units code and name | Proposed changes or rationale | Link |
| AMPOPR2X5 Undertake routine preventative maintenance | Unit previously proposed for deletion, but retained due to industry need. Unit code updated. Performance Criteria clarified. Foundation Skills added. Performance Evidence, Knowledge Evidence and Assessment Conditions revised. | View draft unit |
The draft documents can be downloaded in Microsoft Word format by clicking here
| Units code and name | Proposed changes or rationale | Link |
| AMPPKG3X2 Supervise meat packing operation | Unit retained and updated, based on stakeholder feedback. Unit code updated. Unit application updated. Elements and Performance Criteria revised. Foundation Skills added. Performance Evidence, Knowledge Evidence and Assessment Conditions revised. | View draft unit |
The draft documents can be downloaded in Microsoft Word format by clicking here
| Unit code and name | Proposed changes or rationale | Link |
| AMPQUA3X1 Comply with hygiene and sanitation requirements | New unit. Unit title updated. Elements 5 and 6 removed. Performance Evidence updated. | View draft unit |
| AMPQUA3X2 Maintain food safety and quality programs | New unit. Unit title updated. Unit application updated. Performance Criteria 2.4 updated. Performance Criteria 4.3 removed. AS 4696:2007 added to Knowledge Evidence. | View draft unit |
| AMPQUA4X1 Support food safety and quality programs | Now Core proposed as a unit in the Certificate IV in Meat Processing. Unit title updated. Unit no longer proposed to be merged. | View draft unit |
| AMPQUA4X2 Maintain good manufacturing practice in meat processing | Now Core proposed as a unit in the Certificate IV in Meat Processing. Unit title updated. Unit application updated. Performance evidence reworded. | View draft unit |
| AMPQUA4X4 Maintain a Meat Hygiene Assessment program | Title updated. Prerequisites added. Equivalence status updated. | View draft unit |
| AMPQUA4X8 Contribute to meat processing premises design and construction processes | Unit title updated. Term ‘abattoir’ replaced with ‘meat processing premises’ throughout to accommodate workplaces other than abattoirs. | View draft unit |
| AMPQUA4X10 Manage the collection, monitoring and interpretation of animal health data from a meat processing premises | Title updated to match terms used in Australian Standard. | View draft unit |
| AMPQUA4X19 Monitor meat preservation process | Unit retained and updated. Unit code updated. Performance Criteria clarified. Foundation Skills added. Performance Evidence, Knowledge Evidence and Assessment Conditions revised. | View draft unit |
| AMPQUA4X20 Monitor the production of processed meats and smallgoods | Unit retained and updated. Unit code and title updated. Performance Criteria clarified. Foundation Skills added. Performance Evidence, Knowledge evidence and Assessment Conditions revised. | View draft unit |
| AMPQUA4X21 Prepare for and respond to an external audit of the establishment’s quality system | Unit retained and updated. Suggested replacement unit has a different focus. Unit code and title updated. Performance Criteria clarified. Foundation Skills added. Performance Evidence, Knowledge evidence and Assessment Conditions revised. | View draft unit |
| AMPQUA4X22 Specify pork product using AUS-MEAT language | Unit previously proposed for deletion, but retained due to industry need. Unit code updated. Performance Criteria clarified. Foundation Skills added. Performance Evidence, Knowledge Evidence and Assessment Conditions revised. | View draft unit |
| AMPQUA4X23 Participate in the ongoing development and implementation of a HACCP and QA system | Unit previously proposed to be merged retained as separate unit. Unit code and title updated. Performance Criteria clarified. Foundation Skills added. Performance Evidence, Knowledge Evidence and Assessment Conditions revised. | View draft unit |
The draft documents can be downloaded in Microsoft Word format by clicking here
| Unit code and name | Proposed changes or rationale | Link |
| AMPGAM3X2 Operate a wild game harvester vehicle | Title updated to be in line with Australian Standards. Performance evidence updated to include: ‘Checked, loaded, Unloaded and cleaned’. Knowledge Evidence updated. | View draft unit |
| AMPGAM3X3 Use firearms to safely and humanely harvest wild game | Unit title updated. Phrase ‘and the relevant state/territory permits to harvest wild game’ removed from unit application. Element 4 added to address euthanising dependent young. Minor updates to wording in Performance evidence and Assessment Conditions. | View draft unit |
The draft documents can be downloaded in Microsoft Word format by clicking here
| Unit code and name | Proposed changes or rationale | Link |
| AMPWHS2X1 Sharpen and handle knives safely | Unit title updated. Performance Criteria updated. Performance Evidence reduced to two (rather than three) to demonstrate consistency of performance. Knowledge Evidence updated. Assessment conditions updated to require co-assessment with a meat processing unit that requires the use of a knife. | View draft unit |
| AMPWHS3X1 Contribute to workplace health and safety processes | New unit. Performance Criteria 1.4 removed. | View draft unit |
| AMPWHS4X1 Monitor workplace health and safety processes | Unit application updated. Two knowledge evidence dot points combined. | View draft unit |
The draft documents can be downloaded in Microsoft Word format by clicking here
Units proposed for replacement
| Unit code and name | Rationale | Link |
| AMPA3071 Implement food safety program | Proposed to be replaced with FBPFSY3005 Control contaminants and allergens in food processing | View unit on training.gov.au |
| AMPX206 Operate forklift in a specific workplace | Proposed to be replaced with TLID2010 Operate a forklift | View unit on training.gov.au |
| AMPX309 Identify and repair equipment faults | Proposed to be replaced with FBPOPR3020 Plan, conduct and monitor equipment maintenance | View unit on training.gov.au |
| AMPX403 Monitor and overview the production of Uncooked Comminuted Fermented Meat (UCFM) | Proposed to be replaced with FBPTEC4024 Produce fermented and dry-cured meat products | View unit on training.gov.au |
| AMPX405 Conduct statistical analysis of process | Proposed to be replaced with FBPOPR4001 Apply principles of statistical process control | View unit on training.gov.au |
| AMPX418 Lead communication in the workplace | Propose replacing with BSBXCM401 Apply communication strategies in the workplace | View unit on training.gov.au |
Units proposed for Deletion
| AMPA405 Develop and implement Quality Assurance program for a rendering plant | Unit removed from merge with AMPQUA4X1 Facilitate and review food safety and quality programs and proposed for deletion based on industry feedback that it is no longer required | View unit on training.gov.au |
| AMPX413 Manage and maintain a food safety plan | Unit removed from merge with AMPQUA4X1 Facilitate and review food safety and quality programs and proposed for deletion based on industry feedback that it is no longer required | View unit on training.gov.au |
| AMPMGT505 Manage maintenance systems | Indications from industry representatives are that this unit is no longer required | View unit on training.gov.au |
| AMPR107 Undertake minor routine maintenance | Indications from industry representatives are that this unit is no longer required | View unit on training.gov.au |
| AMPX410 Facilitate achievement of enterprise environmental policies and goals | Indications from industry representatives are that this unit is no longer required | View unit on training.gov.au |
Summary of Consultation to Date
The qualifications and units were drafted in consultation with Subject Matter Experts. They considered feedback that was received out of Workforce Functional Analysis workshops throughout September and October 2021. People with experience across a range of industry sectors participated and provided information on the skills and knowledge required for job roles and tasks, including those with expertise in sectors tracking and traceability, meat inspection, quality/food safety, leadership/management, operator skills/abattoirs and game.
The first drafts were available on this webpage for broad stakeholder review from 11 November 2021 to 31 January 2022. During this time, feedback was collected via the Skills Impact feedback hub, email, phone and 11 consultation webinars and meetings. The project team received 505 pieces of feedback on the initial drafts of the units and qualifications.
Thank you to those who provided feedback during these activities.
A description of how feedback has been considered and applied in draft 2 of the documents can be downloaded below. Please click the ‘Download Summary of Feedback, Responses and Actions’ button.
Summaries of all feedback raised on Draft 1 and Draft 2 of the documents will be available during the Validation stage of the project.
Feedback Collected From 11 November 2021 Until 31 January 2022
Thank you to everyone who provided feedback on the draft qualifications and units that were made available from 11 November 2021 until 31 January 2022.
Feedback was sought on the revision and merging of seven meat processing qualifications were into two qualifications, resulting in one at a Certificate III level and one at a Certificate IV level. They contain specialisations to promote flexible delivery and career pathways. Feedback was also sought on units of competency that were revised and updated to include updated skills for tracking and traceability, quality assurance and safety, and to comply with current Standards for Training Packages 2012. Five units were also developed to capture skills required to promote workplace health and safety, working as part of a team, hygiene, sanitation, food safety and quality, and recognising animal diseases and conditions. Sixteen units were proposed for deletion as they are no longer required by industry. Nineteen units were proposed to be merged into three units to better reflect job functions and reduce duplication.
For more details and explanations about what changes were made in the development of Draft 1 of the documents, please download the Draft 1 summary of changes document.
Feedback on Draft 1 and Draft 2 will inform the work on the final drafts which will be available for industry validation in June 2022.
Consultation webinars
As part of this stage, there was an opportunity to participate in a consultation webinar to discuss the drafts with the project team and other individuals from industry. These webinars focused on addressing the skills and knowledge required for work activities undertaken by Meat Inspectors/Safety and Quality Assurance Officers, and leadership and general skills in the meat processing industry.
A recording of the webinar held on 30 November 2021 is available below. Please note the recording has been edited to remove comments by participants, to support their privacy.
You may also wish to download a copy of the slides
Qualifications
The Qualifications were revised and merged into one Certificate III and one Certificate IV qualification, each with optional vocational specialisations.
Key changes include:
- Removal of the points system, which assigns points to units as undertaken as part of a qualification, as it is not compliant with Standards for Training Packages 2012
- Updated core units
- Vocational specialisations added
- Imported units added.
For more details and explanations about what changes were made, please download the summary of changes document.
| Qualification code and name | Proposed changes or rationale | Link |
| AMP30X22 Certificate III in Meat Processing | This qualification offers specialisations in:
| View qualification |
| AMP40X22 Certificate IV in Meat Processing | This qualification offers specialisations in:
| View qualification |
The draft documents can be downloaded in Microsoft Word format by clicking here.
Units of Competency
All of the units of competency underwent changes to bring them into line with the current Standards for Training Packages 2012.
Other key changes were made to the following areas to better reflect the skills and knowledge required for the job task, these include:
- Titles updated to better reflect unit content
- Unit sector updated
- Removal of prerequisites where possible
- Edits to Elements and Performance Criteria
- Foundation Skills added
- Edits to Performance Evidence, Knowledge Evidence and Assessment Conditions.
For more details and explanations about what changes were made, please download the summary of changes document.
| Unit code and name | Link |
| AMPABT3X1 Prepare head for inspection | View unit |
| AMPABT3X2 Prepare and present viscera for inspection | View unit |
| AMPABT3X3 Use standard product descriptions – sheep and goats | View unit |
| AMPABT3X4 Use standard product descriptions – beef | View unit |
| AMPABT3X5 Use standard product descriptions – pork | View unit |
The draft documents can be downloaded in Microsoft Word format by clicking here.
| Unit code and name | Link |
| AMPAUD4X1 Conduct an animal welfare audit of a meat processing plant | View unit |
The draft documents can be downloaded in Microsoft Word format by clicking here.
| Unit code and name | Link |
| AMPCOM3X1 Work effectively within a team (New unit) | View unit |
| AMPCOM4X1 Build productive and effective workplace relationships | View unit |
The draft documents can be downloaded in Microsoft Word format by clicking here.
| Unit code and name | Link |
| AMPLDR4X1 Develop and implement work instructions and SOPs | View unit |
| AMPLDR4X2 Supervise new recruits | View unit |
| AMPLDR4X3 Plan, conduct and report a workplace incident investigation | View unit |
| AMPLDR4X4 Manage own work performance and development | View unit |
| AMPLDR4X5 Oversee export requirements | View unit |
The draft documents can be downloaded in Microsoft Word format by clicking here.
| Unit code and name | Link |
| AMPLSK2X1 Apply animal welfare and handling requirements | View unit |
| AMPLSK3X1 Handle animals humanely while conducting ante-mortem inspection | View unit |
| AMPLSK4X1 Oversee humane handling of animals | View unit |
The draft documents can be downloaded in Microsoft Word format by clicking here.
| Unit code and name | Link |
| AMPMGT4X1 Manage biogas facilities | View unit |
| AMPMGT5X1 Develop and implement a TACCP and VACCP plan | View unit |
| AMPMGT8X10 Communicate and negotiate in a culturally diverse context | View unit |
| AMPMGT8X11 Develop and manage international business operations | View unit |
| AMPMGT8X12 Manage change to organisational digital technology systems | View unit |
| AMPMGT8X13 Undertake research project | View unit |
| AMPMGT601 Benchmark to manage and improve enterprise performance | View unit |
| AMPMGT602 Monitor and manage organisational legal responsibilities | View unit |
| AMPMGT603 Manage meat processing systems to maintain and improve product quality | View unit |
| AMPMGT604 Manage effective operation of meat enterprise cold chain and refrigeration systems | View unit |
| AMPMGT606 Analyse and develop enterprise systems for new opportunities | View unit |
The draft documents can be downloaded in Microsoft Word format by clicking here.
| Unit code and name | Link |
| AMPMSY3X1 Apply food animal anatomy and physiology to inspection processes | View unit |
| AMPMSY3X2 Identify and report emergency diseases of food animals | View unit |
| AMPMSY4X1 Perform ante and post-mortem inspection – Ovine and Caprine | View unit |
| AMPMSY4X2 Perform ante and post-mortem inspection – Bovine | View unit |
| AMPMSY4X3 Perform ante and post-mortem inspection – Porcine | View unit |
| AMPMSY4X4 Perform ante and post-mortem inspection – Poultry | View unit |
| AMPMSY4X5 Perform ante and post-mortem inspection – Ratites | View unit |
| AMPMSY4X6 Perform ante and post-mortem inspection – Camels | View unit |
| AMPMSY4X7 Perform post-mortem inspection – Wild game | View unit |
| AMPMSY4X8 Perform ante and post-mortem inspection – Rabbits | View unit |
| AMPMSY4X9 Perform ante and post-mortem inspection – Deer | View unit |
| AMPMSY4X10 Perform ante and post-mortem inspection – Horses | View unit |
| AMPMSY4X11 Perform ante and post-mortem inspection – Alpacas or Llamas | View unit |
| AMPMSY4X12 Perform ante and post-mortem inspection – Calves | View unit |
| AMPMSY4X13 Recognise animal diseases and conditions for meat inspection (New unit) | View unit |
The draft documents can be downloaded in Microsoft Word format by clicking here.
| Units code and name | Link |
| AMPOPR2X1 Clean work area during operations | View unit |
| AMPOPR2X2 Operate scales and semi-automatic labelling machinery | View unit |
| AMPOPR2X3 Clean chillers | View unit |
| AMPOPR2X4 Operate metal detection unit | View unit |
| AMPOPR3X1 Follow and implement an established work plan | View unit |
| AMPOPR3X2 Handle meat product in cold stores | View unit |
| AMPOPR3X3 Manage animal identification data | View unit |
The draft documents can be downloaded in Microsoft Word format by clicking here.
| Units code and name | Link |
| AMPPKG2X1 Package product using gas flushing process | View unit |
| AMPPKG3X1 Monitor production of packaged product to customer specifications | View unit |
The draft documents can be downloaded in Microsoft Word format by clicking here.
| Units code and name | Link |
| AMPPPL3X1 Provide coaching | View unit |
| AMPPPL3X2 Provide mentoring | View unit |
The draft documents can be downloaded in Microsoft Word format by clicking here.
| Units code and name | Link |
| AMPPMG2X1 Undertake pest control in a food processing establishment | View unit |
| AMPPMG4X1 Develop, implement and evaluate a pest control program in a meat processing premises | View unit |
The draft documents can be downloaded in Microsoft Word format by clicking here.
| Unit code and name | Link |
| AMPQUA2X1 Follow electronic labelling and traceability systems in a food processing establishment | View unit |
| AMPQUA2X2 Monitor meat temperature from receival to sale | View unit |
| AMPQUA3X1 Monitor hygiene and sanitation performance (New unit) | View unit |
| AMPQUA3X2 Monitor food safety and quality programs (New unit) | View unit |
| AMPQUA3X3 Identify and control contaminants to meat | View unit |
| AMPQUA3X4 Perform carcase Meat Hygiene Assessment | View unit |
| AMPQUA3X5 Perform process monitoring for Meat Hygiene Assessment | View unit |
| AMPQUA3X6 Perform boning room Meat Hygiene Assessment | View unit |
| AMPQUA3X7 Perform offal Meat Hygiene Assessment | View unit |
| AMPQUA3X8 Grade beef carcases using MSA standards | View unit |
| AMPQUA3X9 Perform manual chemical lean testing | View unit |
| AMPQUA3X10 Inspect transportation container or vehicle | View unit |
| AMPQUA3X11 Assess effective stunning and bleeding | View unit |
| AMPQUA3X12 Assess meat product in chillers | View unit |
| AMPQUA3X13 Perform pre-operations hygiene assessment | View unit |
| AMPQUA3X14 Follow hygiene, sanitation and quality requirements when handling and dispatching chilled meat | View unit |
| AMPQUA3X15 Maintain production records | View unit |
| AMPQUA3X16 Collect and prepare standard samples | View unit |
| AMPQUA4X1 Facilitate and review food safety and quality programs | View unit |
| AMPQUA4X2 Facilitate good manufacturing practice in meat processing | View unit |
| AMPQUA4X3 Utilise refrigeration index | View unit |
| AMPQUA4X4 Implement a Meat Hygiene Assessment program | View unit |
| AMPQUA4X5 Oversee plant compliance with Australian Standards for meat processing | View unit |
| AMPQUA4X6 Apply meat science | View unit |
| AMPQUA4X7 Conduct and validate pH and temperature declines to MSA standards | View unit |
| AMPQUA4X8 Contribute to abattoir design and construction processes | View unit |
| AMPQUA4X9 Review or develop an Emergency Animal Disease Response Plan | View unit |
| AMPQUA4X10 Manage the collection, monitoring and interpretation of animal health data from a meat processing plant | View unit |
| AMPQUA4X11 Calculate carcase yield in a boning room | View unit |
| AMPQUA4X12 Specify beef product using AUS-MEAT language | View unit |
| AMPQUA4X13 Specify sheep product using AUS-MEAT language | View unit |
| AMPQUA4X14 Coordinate a product recall | View unit |
| AMPQUA4X15 Undertake chiller assessment to AUS-MEAT requirements | View unit |
| AMPQUA4X16 Conduct an internal audit of a documented program | View unit |
| AMPQUA4X17 Establish sampling program | View unit |
| AMPQUA4X18 Conduct a document review | View unit |
The draft documents can be downloaded in Microsoft Word format by clicking here.
| Unit code and name | Link |
| AMPGAM3X1 Apply knowledge of the wild game meat industry | View unit |
| AMPGAM3X2 Operate a game harvesting vehicle | View unit |
| AMPGAM3X3 Use firearms to harvest wild game following animal welfare standards | View unit |
| AMPGAM3X4 Eviscerate, inspect and tag wild game carcase in the field | View unit |
The draft documents can be downloaded in Microsoft Word format by clicking here.
| Unit code and name | Link |
| AMPWHS2X1 Handle knives safely | View unit |
| AMPWHS3X1 Contribute to workplace health and safety processes (New unit) | View unit |
| AMPWHS4X1 Monitor workplace health and safety processes | View unit |
The draft documents can be downloaded in Microsoft Word format by clicking here.
The following units are proposed for deletion, either because they are not required by industry or there is another more appropriate unit that reflects the required skills. You can provide feedback via the form below.
| Unit code and name | Rationale | Link |
| AMPMGT505 Manage maintenance systems | Indications from industry representatives are that this unit is no longer required | View unit on training.gov.au |
| AMPA3116 Supervise meat packing operation | Propose replacing with FBPOPR3019 Operate and monitor interrelated processes in a production or packaging system | View unit on training.gov.au |
| AMPR207 Undertake routine preventative maintenance | Indications from industry representatives are that this unit is no longer required | View unit on training.gov.au |
| AMPX206 Operate forklift in a specific workplace | Propose replacing with TLID2010 Operate a forklift | View unit on training.gov.au |
| AMPR107 Undertake minor routine maintenance | Indications from industry representatives are that this unit is no longer required | View unit on training.gov.au |
| AMPX309 Identify and repair equipment faults | Propose replacing with FBPOPR3020 Plan, conduct and monitor equipment maintenance | View unit on training.gov.au |
| AMPX401 Monitor meat preservation process | Indications from industry representatives are that this unit is no longer required | View unit on training.gov.au |
| AMPX402 Monitor and overview the production of processed meats and smallgoods | Indications from industry representatives are that this unit is no longer required | View unit on training.gov.au |
| AMPX403 Monitor and overview the production of Uncooked Comminuted Fermented Meat (UCFM) | Indications from industry representatives are that this unit is no longer required | View unit on training.gov.au |
| AMPX405 Conduct statistical analysis of process | Propose replacing with FBPOPR4001 Apply principles of statistical process control | View unit on training.gov.au |
| AMPX406 Manage or oversee an external audit of the establishment’s quality system | Propose replacing with BSBAUD512 Lead quality audits | View unit on training.gov.au |
| AMPX410 Facilitate achievement of enterprise environmental policies and goals | Indications from industry representatives are that this unit is no longer required | View unit on training.gov.au |
| AMPX411 Foster a learning culture in a meat enterprise | Indications from industry representatives are that this unit is no longer required | View unit on training.gov.au |
| AMPX417 Specify pork product using AUS-MEAT language | Indications from industry representatives are that this unit is no longer required | View unit on training.gov.au |
| AMPX418 Lead communication in the workplace | Propose replacing with BSBXCM401 Apply communication strategies in the workplace | View unit on training.gov.au |
| AMPX424 Raise and validate requests for export permits and Meat Transfer Certificates | Indications from industry representatives are that this unit is no longer required | View unit on training.gov.au |
Validation
The Australian meat processing industry is made up of a workforce of approximately 70,000 people with core skills in safety, quality assurance, and leadership. It is important that the qualifications and skills standards that describe these skills are kept up to date, as they are essential for roles throughout the entire meat processing industry.
Consultation is taking place throughout this project to review and update qualifications and skill standards that describe some of the core skills used throughout Australia’s meat processing industry.
Thank you to those who provided validation and comment on the final draft qualifications, skill set and units of competency for meat safety, quality assurance and leadership skills. They were made available on this webpage from 17 May until Tuesday 14 June 2022.
They were revised to include feedback received on skills and knowledge required by workers in the meat processing industry. Changes included updates to the equivalence status of some of the draft units. The assessment conditions of most units were updated to require at least three forms of evidence and the assessment conditions of the ante and post-mortem inspection units were updated to include a description of a suitable supervisor for the unit. Further information was added to the two new micro meat processing safety units. A skill set was developed to capture the important role of a mentor in a meat processing setting to support new entrants and retention of workers. Meat safety qualifications have had the proposed entry requirements removed following industry feedback at the validation stage.
A Training Package Companion Volume Implementation Guide (CVIG) is also being produced to help deliver the qualifications, skill set and unit. It will include information on assessment conditions of all units, specific advice on the assessment of meat safety units, co-assessment, mandatory workplace requirements, foundation skills, notes about Australian and Industry Standards, and terminology. Feedback was encouraged on the information to be included in the Companion Volume Implementation Guide and on the current teach out period.
For more detailed explanations on what changes were made to the final draft version of the qualifications, skill set and units click here to download the Summary of Changes document.
The documents and any comments made are available to view below.
Summary of Consultation and Feedback
Thank you to those stakeholders who provided feedback on the drafts that were made available from 11 November 2021 to 31 January 2022, and the additional drafts made available from 21 February to 21 March 2022, under the ‘Drafts Available’ stage. During these times, feedback was collected via the online feedback hub, webinars, phone call and email. The units were drafted with guidance from Subject Matter Experts, made up of workplace experts and industry.
Changes to the drafts include:
- Equivalence status of the draft units was checked and some determinations updated.
- A skill set for a meat processing mentor was developed to capture the skills required to support new entrants to the industry, assisting them in adjusting to the work environment, supporting their wellbeing and promoting retention of workers.
- Assessment Conditions:
- Assessment Conditions of the ante and post-mortem inspection units were updated to include the following: ‘A suitably qualified supervisor must hold this unit [Insert code and title of relevant species-specific ante and post-mortem inspection unit] or have equivalent and current skills and knowledge.’
- The following sentence was added to the Assessment Conditions of most units: ‘Assessment for this unit must include at least three forms of evidence.’
- Meat Safety:
- Entry requirements were added to Meat Safety qualifications.
- Further information on micro meat processing for the assistance of training and assessment was added to the draft units AMPMSY4X14 Conduct ante and post-mortem inspection in micro meat processing premises and AMPMSY4X15 Conduct post-mortem inspection in micro meat processing premises – Wild game, which can be found under the heading ‘meat safety’ in the accordion below. The following information was added to these two units:
This unit applies to individuals who carry out work as a meat inspector or a meat safety officer in a micro meat processing premises where meat is processed for the Australian domestic market. A micro meat processing premises is defined for training and assessment purposes, as:
• operating fewer than four days a week with a small throughput for one or more species, or
• employing fewer than four workers on the processing floor.
This unit must only be selected for workers in micro meat processing premises when 100 hours of performance evidence for assessment is unachievable within a reasonable timeframe. It must only be selected for training and assessment in states/territories where the controlling food safety authority deems it is appropriate. This unit must not be co-delivered with an ‘Ante and post-mortem inspection’ unit that requires 100 hours of performance evidence. Users must note that this unit will not satisfy the regulatory requirements for meat inspection work in export premises or larger domestic premises. - Meat inspectors who hold one of the new micro units (without the 100 hours logged for assessment) will need to top up their training and assessment by enrolling and completing species-specific ante and post-mortem unit/s (with 100 hours logged for assessment, or 50 hours for second species) to work in larger domestic or export plants. Details about pathways to work in different contexts, and about how to determine which units of competency a candidate has achieved, will be included in a Training Package Companion Volume Implementation Guide (CVIG).
A Companion Volume Implementation Guide (CVIG) is also being produced to include additional information on:
- Assessment Conditions, including principles of assessment, rules of evidence, assessment methods and evidence
- Assessment of Meat Safety units, including who is a ‘suitably qualified supervisor’, overlapping assessment, ‘micro’ meat processing units, pathways into different meat safety workplaces and meat safety regulators
- Co-assessment
- Mandatory workplace requirements
- Foundation skills
- Notes about Australian and Industry Standards
- Usage of terminology.
Descriptions of how feedback has been considered and applied can be downloaded below. The documents that underwent an additional round of feedback and the documents that only underwent round 1 have been dealt with in separate documents.
A Training Package Companion Volume Implementation Guide (CVIG) is being produced to help deliver the qualifications, skill set and unit. It will include information on assessment conditions of all units, specific advice on the assessment of meat safety units, co-assessment, mandatory workplace requirements, foundation skills, notes about Australian and Industry Standards, and terminology. Feedback is encouraged on the information to be included in the Companion Volume Implementation Guide and the current teach out period.
| Document title | Link |
| Proposed Additions to Meat Processing Companion Volume Implementation Guide | View draft CVIG information |
The draft document can be downloaded in Microsoft Word format by clicking here
| Qualification code and name | Proposed changes or rationale | Link |
| AMP303X22 Certificate III in Meat Safety Inspection | Entry Requirements added and Core and elective units revised | View final draft qualification |
| AMP306X22 Certificate III in Meat Processing | Packaging rules revised, Quality specialisation reduced to at least five units and Electives revised | View final draft qualification |
| AMP402X22 Certificate IV in Meat Processing | Description, Packaging rules, core and elective units lists updated | View final draft qualification |
| AMP405X22 Certificate IV in Meat Safety Inspection | Entry Requirements added and Core and elective units revised | View final draft qualification |
The draft documents can be downloaded in Microsoft Word format by clicking here
| Skill set code and name | Proposed changes or rationale | Link |
| AMPSS000X81 Meat Processing Mentor Skill Set | New skill set developed to capture the important role of a mentor in a meat processing setting. Mentors require unique expertise to support workers who are new to the industry, assisting them in adjusting to the work environment, supporting their wellbeing and promoting retention of workers. | View final draft skill set |
The draft documents can be downloaded in Microsoft Word format by clicking here
| Unit code and name | Proposed changes or rationale | Link |
| AMPABA3X1 Prepare head for inspection | ‘Plant’ changed to ‘premises’ throughout. Performance Criteria 4.2 and 4.4 updated. Order of Performance Criteria in Element 3 swapped. Foundation Skill updated. Numbers in Performance Evidence increased to three heads at chain speed to allow for demonstration of consistent skills and updated to specify that head is ‘prepared and presented’ for inspection. Assessment Conditions updated. | View final draft unit |
| AMPABA3X2 Prepare and present viscera for inspection | ‘Plant’ changed to ‘premises’ throughout. Performance Criteria 4.2 and 4.4 updated. Order of Performance Criteria in Element 3 swapped. Foundation Skill updated. Numbers in Performance Evidence increased to three to allow for demonstration of consistent skills. Assessment Conditions updated. | View final draft unit |
| AMPABA3X3 Use standard product descriptions – sheep and goats | Unit application updated to include ‘sheep and/or goat meat’. Performance Criteria’s 1.1, 2.1, 2.4 and 2.6 updated, 2.5 removed. Numeracy Foundation Skill removed. Performance Evidence updated to ‘three occasions’. Assessment Conditions updated. | View final draft unit |
| AMPABA3X4 Use standard product descriptions – beef | Performance Criteria’s 1.1, 1.3, 2.4 and 2.6 updated, 2.5 removed. Numeracy Foundation Skill removed. Performance Evidence updated to ‘three occasions’. Assessment Conditions updated. | View final draft unit |
| AMPABA3X5 Use standard product descriptions – pork | Application updated to specify that this unit must not be delivered in the same qualification as AMPQUA4X22 Specify pork product using AUS-MEAT language. Performance Criteria’s 1.1, 2.1, 2.4 and 2.6 updated, 2.5 removed. Numeracy Foundation Skill removed. Performance Evidence updated to ‘three occasions’. Assessment Conditions updated. | View final draft unit |
The draft documents can be downloaded in Microsoft Word format by clicking here
| Unit code and name | Proposed changes or rationale | Link |
| AMPAUD4X1 Conduct an animal welfare audit of a meat processing premises | Performance Criteria 7.1 updated. Assessment Conditions updated. | View final draft unit |
The draft documents can be downloaded in Microsoft Word format by clicking here
| Unit code and name | Proposed changes or rationale | Link |
| AMPCOM3X1 Communicate effectively at work | Performance Criteria 3.4 updated. Application, Knowledge Evidence and Assessment Conditions revised to be ‘food or meat processing’ for flexibility. Assessment Conditions updated. | View final draft unit |
| AMPCOM4X1 Build productive and effective workplace relationships | Changed ‘enterprise’ to ‘workplace’ throughout. Performance Criteria 3.2 updated to include ‘needs’. Performance Evidence dot points reworded. Assessment Conditions updated. | View final draft unit |
The draft documents can be downloaded in Microsoft Word format by clicking here
| Unit code and name | Proposed changes or rationale | Link |
| AMPLDR4X1 Develop and implement work instructions and SOPs | Context for delivery and assessment expanded to include food processing, for broader application. Assessment Conditions updated. | View final draft unit |
| AMPLDR4X2 Supervise new recruits | ‘Reading’ removed from Foundation Skills field. Performance Evidence reduced. Knowledge Evidence language updated. Assessment Conditions updated. | View final draft unit |
| AMPLDR4X3 Plan, conduct and report a workplace incident investigation | Performance Evidence and Knowledge Evidence dot points updated. Assessment Conditions updated. | View final draft unit |
| AMPLDR4X4 Manage own work performance and development | Context for delivery and assessment expanded to include food processing, for broader application. Replaced ‘enterprise’ with ‘workplace’ Assessment Conditions updated. | View final draft unit |
| AMPLDR4X5 Oversee export requirements | ‘Plant’ changed to ‘premises’ throughout unit. ‘Department of Agriculture’ replaced with ‘export controlling authority’ throughout. Performance Criteria 3.4 moved to 4.4. Assessment Conditions updated. | View final draft unit |
| AMPLDR4X6 Foster a learning culture in a meat processing workplace | Unit title updated. Performance Evidence dot points 5 and 6 removed and concepts included in Foundation Skills. Assessment Conditions updated. | View final draft unit |
The draft documents can be downloaded in Microsoft Word format by clicking here
| Unit code and name | Proposed changes or rationale | Link |
| AMPLSK2X1 Apply animal welfare and handling requirements | Unit application updated. ‘Stock’ changed to ‘animals’ throughout. PCs in Element 5 renumbered. Performance Evidence revised to one lot of animals. Knowledge Evidence dot points updated. Assessment Conditions updated. | View final draft unit |
| AMPLSK3X1 Handle animals humanely while conducting ante-mortem inspection | Performance Criteria 4.2 and 4.4 updated. Reading and Numeracy Foundation Skills added. Performance Evidence revised to once. Knowledge Evidence updated. Assessment Conditions updated. | View final draft unit |
| AMPLSK3X2 Assess cattle according to industry standards | Performance Evidence updated to five pens. Assessment Conditions updated. | View final draft unit |
| AMPLSK3X3 Assess sheep and lambs according to industry standards | Performance Evidence updated to five pens. Assessment Conditions updated. | View final draft unit |
| AMPLSK4X1 Oversee humane handling of animals | Performance Criteria 3.4 removed. Performance Evidence, Knowledge Evidence and Assessment Conditions updated. | View final draft unit |
The draft documents can be downloaded in Microsoft Word format by clicking here
| Unit code and name | Proposed changes or rationale | Link |
| AMPMGT4X1 Manage biogas facilities | Assessment Conditions updated. | View final draft unit |
| AMPMGT5X1 Develop and implement a TACCP and VACCP plan | Updated to food or meat processing plant throughout unit for flexibility. Assessment Conditions updated. | View final draft unit |
| AMPMGT602 Monitor and manage organisational legal responsibilities | Replaced ‘enterprise’ with ‘workplace’ and throughout unit. Assessment Conditions updated. | View final draft unit |
| AMPMGT603 Manage meat processing systems to maintain and improve product quality | Replaced ‘enterprise’ with ‘workplace’ and throughout unit. Assessment Conditions updated. | View final draft unit |
| AMPMGT6X8 Benchmark to manage and improve workplace performance | Title updated to replace ‘enterprise’ with ‘workplace’ and throughout unit. Assessment Conditions updated. | View final draft unit |
| AMPMGT6X9 Manage effective operation of meat workplace cold chain and refrigeration systems | Title updated to replace ‘enterprise’ with ‘workplace’ and throughout unit. Assessment Conditions updated. | View final draft unit |
| AMPMGT6X10 Analyse and develop workplace systems for new opportunities | Title updated to replace ‘enterprise’ with ‘workplace’ and throughout unit. Assessment Conditions updated. | View final draft unit |
| AMPMGT8X10 Communicate and negotiate in a culturally diverse context | Replaced ‘enterprise’ with ‘workplace’ and throughout unit. Assessment Conditions updated. | View final draft unit |
| AMPMGT8X11 Develop and manage international business operations | Replaced ‘enterprise’ with ‘workplace’ and throughout unit. Assessment Conditions updated. | View final draft unit |
| AMPMGT8X12 Manage change to organisational digital technology systems | Replaced ‘enterprise’ with ‘workplace’ and throughout unit. Assessment Conditions updated. | View final draft unit |
| AMPMGT8X13 Undertake research project | Assessment Conditions updated. | View final draft unit |
The draft documents can be downloaded in Microsoft Word format by clicking here
| Unit code and name | Proposed changes or rationale | Link |
| AMPMSY3X1 Apply food animal anatomy and physiology to inspection processes | References to specific disease removed. Pet meat included in unit application and Knowledge Evidence. PC4.3 added, PCs 9.1 & 10.2 updated. Knowledge Evidence and Assessment Conditions updated. | View final draft unit |
| AMPMSY3X2 Recognise signs of emergency animal diseases | Minimum list of Emergency Animal Diseases (EADs) updated. ‘Symptoms’ replaced with ‘signs’ throughout. Changed to not equivalent. | View final draft unit |
| AMPMSY3X3 Conduct ante-mortem inspection and make disposition | PC2.5 updated. Assessment Conditions updated. ‘Livestock’ replaced with ‘food animal’ throughout. | View final draft unit |
| AMPMSY4X1 Perform ante and post-mortem inspection – Ovine and Caprine | Knowledge Evidence point added back. Assessment Conditions updated. | View final draft unit |
| AMPMSY4X2 Perform ante and post-mortem inspection – Bovine | Definition of calf as more than 50kg dressed weight removed. Knowledge Evidence point added back Assessment Conditions updated. | View final draft unit |
| AMPMSY4X3 Perform ante and post-mortem inspection – Porcine | Performance Evidence corrected. Knowledge Evidence point added back. Assessment Conditions updated. | View final draft unit |
| AMPMSY4X4 Perform ante and post-mortem inspection – Poultry | PC2.1 removed Knowledge Evidence point added back. Assessment Conditions updated. | View final draft unit |
| AMPMSY4X5 Perform ante and post-mortem inspection – Ratites | Performance Evidence corrected. Knowledge Evidence point added back. Assessment Conditions updated. | View final draft unit |
| AMPMSY4X6 Perform ante and post-mortem inspection – Camels | Knowledge Evidence point added back. Assessment Conditions updated. | View final draft unit |
| AMPMSY4X7 Perform post-mortem inspection – Wild game | ‘Wild goats, wild deer, wild rabbits’ added to Application. References of ‘ante-mortem’ removed. PC2.4 added, 3.3 & 3.4 reordered. Writing Foundation Skill added. Knowledge Evidence point added back and updated. Assessment Conditions updated. | View final draft unit |
| AMPMSY4X8 Perform ante and post-mortem inspection – Rabbits | Knowledge Evidence point added back. Assessment Conditions updated. | View final draft unit |
| AMPMSY4X9 Perform ante and post-mortem inspection – Deer | Knowledge Evidence point added back. Assessment Conditions updated. | View final draft unit |
| AMPMSY4X10 Perform ante and post-mortem inspection – Equine | Unit title and refences to horses updated throughout unit. Knowledge Evidence point added back. Assessment Conditions updated. | View final draft unit |
| AMPMSY4X11 Perform ante and post-mortem inspection– Alpacas or Llamas | Knowledge Evidence point added back. Assessment Conditions updated. | View final draft unit |
| AMPMSY4X12 Perform ante and post-mortem inspection – Calves | Knowledge Evidence point added back. Assessment Conditions updated. | View final draft unit |
| AMPMSY4X13 Recognise diseases and conditions during inspection of food animal | Element 2 added. Language throughout updated to refer to ‘common’ diseases and conditions. Lists of common diseases, conditions and parasites included in Knowledge Evidence. | View final draft unit |
| AMPMSY4X14 Conduct ante and post-mortem inspection in micro meat processing premises | Definition of micro plant updated. Knowledge Evidence point added back. Assessment Conditions updated. | View final draft unit |
| AMPMSY4X15 Conduct post-mortem inspection in micro meat processing premises – wild game | Definition of micro plant updated. Oral Communication Foundation Skill updated. References to ‘slaughtering’ removed. Knowledge Evidence point added back. Assessment Conditions updated. | View final draft unit |
| AMPMSY4X16 Raise and validate requests for export permits and Meat Transfer Certificates | ‘In meat export licensed premises’ added to unit Application to clarify context. ‘Enterprise’ changed to ‘workplace’ throughout. | View final draft unit |
The draft documents can be downloaded in Microsoft Word format by clicking here
| Units code and name | Proposed changes or rationale | Link |
| AMPOPR2X1 Clean work area during operations | Performance Criteria updated. Reading added to Foundation Skills and Numeracy updated. Performance Evidence, Knowledge Evidence and Assessment Conditions updated. | View final draft unit |
| AMPOPR2X2 Operate scales and semi-automatic labelling machinery | Knowledge Evidence and Assessment Conditions updated. | View final draft unit |
| AMPOPR2X3 Clean chillers | Performance Criteria 2.1 and 2.3 clarified. Performance Evidence and Assessment Conditions updated. | View final draft unit |
| AMPOPR2X4 Operate metal detection unit | Assessment Conditions updated. | View final draft unit |
| AMPOPR2X5 Undertake routine preventative maintenance | Knowledge Evidence and Assessment Conditions updated. | View final draft unit |
| AMPOPR3X1 Follow and implement an established work plan | Assessment Conditions updated. | View final draft unit |
| AMPOPR3X2 Handle meat product in cold stores | Performance Criteria 4.3 moved to 1.4. Assessment Conditions updated. | View final draft unit |
| AMPOPR3X3 Manage animal identification data | Performance Criteria’s 1.2 and 1.3 added ‘movement’, 2.4 reordered and removed. National Vendor Declarations (NVDs) ‘facility’ changed to ‘premises’ in Performance Evidence. Knowledge Evidence dot point updated to note specific movement documents. ‘Relevant movement documents’ added to Assessment Conditions. | View final draft unit |
The draft documents can be downloaded in Microsoft Word format by clicking here
| Units code and name | Proposed changes or rationale | Link |
| AMPPKG2X1 Package product using gas flushing process | Performance Evidence updated to ‘three products’ rather than three ‘different’ products as worker might just package one type of item. Assessment Conditions updated. | View final draft unit |
| AMPPKG3X1 Monitor production of packaged product to customer specifications | Unit application updated. PC 2.3 removed, 4.4 updated. Knowledge Evidence and Assessment Conditions updated. | View final draft unit |
| AMPPKG3X2 Supervise meat packing operation | Knowledge Evidence and Assessment Conditions updated. | View final draft unit |
The draft documents can be downloaded in Microsoft Word format by clicking here
| Units code and name | Proposed changes or rationale | Link |
| AMPPPL3X1 Provide coaching | Performance Evidence and Assessment Conditions updated. | View final draft unit |
| AMPPPL3X2 Provide mentoring | Performance Evidence and Assessment Conditions updated. | View final draft unit |
The draft documents can be downloaded in Microsoft Word format by clicking here
| Units code and name | Proposed changes or rationale | Link |
| AMPPMG2X1 Undertake pest control in a food processing premises | Title updated, context updated to include ‘food and meat’. Performance Criteria 4.3 removed. Assessment Conditions updated. | View final draft unit |
| AMPPMG4X1 Develop, implement and evaluate a pest control program in a food processing premises | Title updated, context updated to include ‘food and meat’. Performance Criteria’s 1.2 and 3.2 removed, 3.3 updated. Foundation Skills and Assessment Conditions updated. | View final draft unit |
The draft documents can be downloaded in Microsoft Word format by clicking here
| Unit code and name | Proposed changes or rationale | Link |
| AMPQUA2X1 Follow electronic labelling and traceability systems in a food processing establishment | Assessment Conditions updated. | View final draft unit |
| AMPQUA2X2 Monitor meat temperature | Unit title, application and Performance Evidence updated to remove the restricted context. Assessment Conditions updated. | View final draft unit |
| AMPQUA3X1 Comply with hygiene and sanitation requirements | Performance Criteria 1.1 and Performance Evidence updated to ‘own work area’. Assessment Conditions updated. | View final draft unit |
| AMPQUA3X2 Maintain food safety and quality programs | Unit application updated to include ‘plant or premises’. Assessment Conditions updated. | View final draft unit |
| AMPQUA3X4 Perform carcase Meat Hygiene Assessment | Unit application updated. ‘Microbiological’ replaced by ‘physical or macro-contamination’. Performance Criteria 2.8 updated to include ‘regulatory requirements’. ‘Plant’ updated to ‘premises’ throughout. Assessment Conditions updated. | View final draft unit |
| AMPQUA3X5 Perform process monitoring for Meat Hygiene Assessment | ‘Microbiological’ removed from unit application and Knowledge Evidence. Assessment Conditions updated. | View final draft unit |
| AMPQUA3X6 Perform boning room Meat Hygiene Assessment | References to ‘offal’ removed throughout and ‘plant’ updated to ‘premises.’ Assessment Conditions updated. | View final draft unit |
| AMPQUA3X7 Perform offal Meat Hygiene Assessment | Unit application updated. ‘Microbiological’ replaced by ‘physical or macro-contamination’ and ‘carcase’ replaced with ‘offal’. Performance Criteria 2.8 updated to include ‘regulatory requirements’. ‘Microbiological’ removed from Knowledge Evidence. Assessment Conditions updated. | View final draft unit |
| AMPQUA3X8 Grade beef carcases using MSA standards | Performance Criteria 4.2 & 5.3 updated. Performance Evidence and Assessment Conditions updated. | View final draft unit |
| AMPQUA3X9 Perform manual chemical lean testing | References to ‘carton meat’ changed to ‘carton or container meat’. Assessment Conditions updated. | View final draft unit |
| AMPQUA3X10 Inspect transportation container or vehicle | Assessment Conditions updated. | View final draft unit |
| AMPQUA3X11 Assess effective stunning and bleeding | ‘Animal’ changed to ‘food animal’ in unit application. Performance Criteria 2.3 ‘insensitivity’ changed to ‘insensibility’. ‘Abattoir and ‘knackeries’ changed to ‘slaughtering establishments’ in Assessment Conditions. Assessment Conditions updated. | View final draft unit |
| AMPQUA3X12 Assess meat product in chillers | Performance Criteria 2.2 updated to read: ‘Set up and follow schedule for daily, weekly cleaning and where applicable fumigation’. Performance Evidence updated to at least one meat product. Assessment Conditions updated. | View final draft unit |
| AMPQUA3X13 Perform pre-operations hygiene assessment | Wording in Performance Criteria’s 1.6, 2.1 and 2.3 clarified. Knowledge Evidence and Assessment Conditions updated. | View final draft unit |
| AMPQUA3X14 Follow hygiene, sanitation and quality requirements when handling and dispatching chilled meat | New Performance Criteria 2.1 added, 2.5 and 2.6 updated. Performance Evidence, Knowledge Evidence and Assessment Conditions updated. | View final draft unit |
| AMPQUA3X15 Maintain production records | Wording in Performance Criteria 2.2, 2.3 and 2.4 clarified. Assessment Conditions updated. | View final draft unit |
| AMPQUA3X16 Collect and prepare standard samples | ‘Pathological’ changed to ‘microbiological’ in unit application. Performance Criteria 4.2 updated, 4.3 and 4.3 combined. Assessment Conditions updated. | View final draft unit |
| AMPQUA4X1 Support food safety and quality programs | Duplicated Numeracy Foundation Skill removed. Performance Evidence added. Assessment Conditions updated. | View final draft unit |
| AMPQUA4X2 Maintain good manufacturing practice in meat processing | Performance Evidence, Knowledge Evidence and Assessment Conditions updated. | View final draft unit |
| AMPQUA4X3 Utilise refrigeration index | Assessment Conditions updated. | View final draft unit |
| AMPQUA4X4 Maintain a Meat Hygiene Assessment program | Elements 1, 2 and 3 updated. Element 5 removed. Assessment Conditions updated. | View final draft unit |
| AMPQUA4X5 Oversee compliance with Australian Standards for meat processing | Unit title updated. ‘plant’ changed to ‘premises’ throughout. Performance Evidence updated to include ‘prepared for’ audit, rather than ‘conducted’ audit. Assessment Conditions updated. | View final draft unit |
| AMPQUA4X6 Apply meat science | Application updated. Numeracy added to Foundation Skills. Performance Evidence statement clarified. Knowledge Evidence point added. Assessment Conditions updated. | View final draft unit |
| AMPQUA4X7 Conduct and validate pH/temperature declines to MSA standards | Updated wording from ‘pH and temperature’ to ‘ph/temperature’ throughout, including unit title. Wording of Performance Criteria 2.1, 2.2, 3.1 clarified. Performance Evidence, Knowledge Evidence and Assessment Conditions updated. | View final draft unit |
| AMPQUA4X8 Contribute to meat processing premises design and construction processes | Performance Criteria 2.3 updated. Assessment Conditions updated. | View final draft unit |
| AMPQUA4X9 Review or develop an Emergency Animal Disease Response Plan | Performance Criteria 1.1, 1.2, 2.1, 2.3, 2.4, 2.5, 3.4 and 3.5 reworded/clarified. Knowledge Evidence point updated. Assessment Conditions updated. | View final draft unit |
| AMPQUA4X10 Manage the collection, monitoring and interpretation of animal health data | Title updated. Licencing statement added to Application. Assessment Conditions updated. | View final draft unit |
| AMPQUA4X11 Calculate carcase yield in a boning room | ‘Stock’ replaced with ‘animal’ throughout unit. Assessment Conditions updated. | View final draft unit |
| AMPQUA4X12 Specify beef product using AUS-MEAT language | Sentence removed from unit Application. Numeracy Foundation Skill added. Performance Criteria 3.4 removed (duplicated 3.1). Performance Evidence, Knowledge Evidence and Assessment Conditions points clarified. | View final draft unit |
| AMPQUA4X13 Specify sheep product using AUS-MEAT language | Performance Criteria 2.5 ‘enterprise’ changed to ‘workplace’. Numeracy Foundation Skill added. Assessment Conditions updated. | View final draft unit |
| AMPQUA4X14 Coordinate a product recall | Application updated. Performance Criteria 1.1 removed and 2.2 reworded. References to ‘third-party’ changed to ‘workplace’ and ‘controlling authority’. Minor edit to Performance Evidence adding ‘mock’. Assessment Conditions updated. | View final draft unit |
| AMPQUA4X15 Undertake chiller assessment to AUS-MEAT requirements | Elements 2 and 3 retitled and Performance Criteria’s refined. Performance Evidence, Knowledge Evidence and Assessment Conditions points updated. | View final draft unit |
| AMPQUA4X16 Conduct an internal audit of a documented program | Assessment Conditions updated. | View final draft unit |
| AMPQUA4X17 Establish sampling program | Details of Australian Standard 1199.1-2003 Sampling procedures for inspection by attributes added to Knowledge Evidence. Assessment Condition updated. | View final draft unit |
| AMPQUA4X18 Conduct a document review | Assessment Conditions updated. | View final draft unit |
| AMPQUA4X19 Monitor meat preservation process | Assessment Conditions updated. | View final draft unit |
| AMPQUA4X20 Monitor the production of processed meats and smallgoods | Assessment Conditions updated. | View final draft unit |
| AMPQUA4X21 Prepare for and respond to an external audit of the establishment’s quality system | Element 1 wording refined. Performance Criteria 2.2, 2.3 and 2.4 updated. Assessment Conditions updated. | View final draft unit |
| AMPQUA4X22 Specify pork product using AUS-MEAT language | Application updated. Performance Criteria 1.1 and 3.2 language clarified, 3.4 removed. Numeracy Foundation Skills added. Performance Evidence, Knowledge Evidence and Assessment Conditions updated. | View final draft unit |
| AMPQUA4X23 Participate in the ongoing development and implementation of a HACCP and QA system | Assessment Conditions updated. | View final draft unit |
| AMPQUA4X24 Monitor the production of UCFM smallgoods | Unit no longer proposed for deletion and updated. Assessment Conditions updated. | View final draft unit |
The draft documents can be downloaded in Microsoft Word format by clicking here
| Unit code and name | Proposed changes or rationale | Link |
| AMPGAM3X1 Apply knowledge of the wild game meat industry | References to Australian Standards updated. Assessment Conditions updated. | View final draft unit |
| AMPGAM3X2 Operate a wild game harvester vehicle | Application typo corrected. ‘Death’ replaced by ‘harvest in Knowledge Evidence. Assessment Conditions updated. | View final draft unit |
| AMPGAM3X3 Use firearms to safely and humanely harvest wild game | Performance Criteria 3.5, 3.6, 3.8, 4.1 and 4.2 updated, 4.3 removed. Equivalence status updated to ‘Not equivalent’. Performance Evidence and Knowledge Evidence updated for clarity. Assessment Conditions updated. | View final draft unit |
| AMPGAM3X4 Eviscerate, inspect and tag wild game carcase in the field | Performance Evidence and Assessment Conditions updated. | View final draft unit |
The draft documents can be downloaded in Microsoft Word format by clicking here
| Unit code and name | Proposed changes or rationale | Link |
| AMPWHS2X1 Sharpen and handle knives safely | Application updated. Performance Criteria’s 2.1, 2.2 and 3.1 refined. Wording of Performance Evidence clarified. Assessment Conditions updated. | View final draft unit |
| AMPWHS3X1 Contribute to workplace health and safety processes | Performance Criteria 2.1 updated. Knowledge Evidence and Assessment Condition updated. | View final draft unit |
| AMPWHS4X1 Monitor workplace health and safety processes | Performance Criteria 4.2 updated. Assessment Condition updated. | View final draft unit |
The draft documents can be downloaded in Microsoft Word format by clicking here
The following units are proposed for deletion, either because they are not required by industry or there is another more appropriate unit that reflects the required skills. Feedback was collected via form.
| Unit code and name | Rationale | Link |
| AMPA3071 Implement food safety program | Propose replacing with FBPFSY3005 Control contaminants and allergens in food processing | View unit on training.gov.au |
| AMPA405 Develop and implement Quality Assurance program for a rendering plant | Unit removed from merge with AMPQUA4X1 and proposed for deletion | View unit on training.gov.au |
| AMPMGT505 Manage maintenance systems | Indications from industry representatives are that this unit is no longer required | View unit on training.gov.au |
| AMPR207 Undertake routine preventative maintenance | Indications from industry representatives are that this unit is no longer required | View unit on training.gov.au |
| AMPX206 Operate forklift in a specific workplace | Propose replacing with TLID2010 Operate a forklift | View unit on training.gov.au |
| AMPX309 Identify and repair equipment faults | Propose replacing with FBPOPR3020 Plan, conduct and monitor equipment maintenance | View unit on training.gov.au |
| AMPX405 Conduct statistical analysis of process | Propose replacing with FBPOPR4001 Apply principles of statistical process control | View unit on training.gov.au |
| AMPX410 Facilitate achievement of enterprise environmental policies and goals | Indications from industry representatives are that this unit is no longer required | View unit on training.gov.au |
| AMPX413 Manage and maintain a food safety plan | Unit removed from merge with AMPQUA4X1 and proposed for deletion | View unit on training.gov.au |
| AMPX418 Lead communication in the workplace | Propose replacing with BSBXCM401 Apply communication strategies in the workplace | View unit on training.gov.au |
Finalisation
Core skills in safety, quality assurance, and leadership are what enable Australia’s meat processing workforce to continue to produce high quality products. These skills are essential for roles throughout the entire meat processing industry. However, the industry has changed over time and skills needs have shifted. Technology is playing an ever greater role and meat quality and safety requirements have been improved to meet the demands of the export market. There is also a higher demand for wild game meat products in both domestic and export markets. Consultation has taken place throughout this project to review and update the qualifications, skill sets and units that describe general, safety, quality assurance, and leadership skills for meat processing so that they are up to date.
This project focused on updating qualifications, skill sets and units to reflect changes to currency/regulatory standards, remove duplication across the training package, improve deliverability, and to bring them in line with the current Standards for Training Packages 2012. The updated qualifications and skills standards have been endorsed and are now published on the national training register (training.gov.au).
Qualifications have been merged and streamlined where appropriate and specialisations added to support flexibility of delivery and career pathways. The core units and packaging rules of the qualifications were reviewed and updated to reflect current occupations. The nested qualification content and point system were removed to promote flexibility, better reflect job outcomes and bring the qualifications in line with the Standards for Training Packages.
New units were developed and added to qualifications to address current and future job tasks, including skills in communication, meat inspection, recognising diseases and conditions, supporting meat quality and work health and safety. One hundred and seventeen units were reviewed and updated to reflect current skills needs, with proposed merging of some units to reduced duplication and proposed deletion of others that are no longer needed by industry. Two skill sets were developed – one to support skills required for meat processing mentors and one to provide a pathway into the Certificate IV. Another existing skill set in animal welfare was updated. A Training Package Companion Volume Implementation Guide (CVIG) was also produced, including additional advice to help deliver the qualifications, skill sets and units.
A lot of work has been done with existing units that have presented problems for trainers delivering to specific parts of the industry. Changes has been made to enable trainers to bring trainees to a level of competency that meets the requirements of the unit and industry. The updated qualifications will give trainees the opportunity to use recognition of prior learning to gain a new qualification that opens up a new direction within our industry. This has a significant positive influence on recruitment and retention. I look forward to continuing teaching and working with trainees within our industry with the updated standards for meat processing.
Tom Collyer
Key changes
- Eight qualifications were reviewed, resulting in five being merged to become two and three being updated with new codes. Changes include:
- Updates were made to improve flexibility in selecting electives to suit job tasks and to provide pathways through the meat processing industry.
- Packaging rules were reviewed to ensure the combination of units selected is a better match with current and future occupations.
- Nested qualification content was removed and qualifications realigned to sit more squarely at the nominated Australian Qualification Framework (AQF) level to better reflect job outcomes.
- The point system was removed to ensure compliance with Standards for Training Packages and allow more flexibility in the selection of elective units.
- Core units were revised to include only AMP meat-specific units.
- New units were added to qualifications to address current and future job tasks, such as meat inspection in micro meat processing enterprises.
- Merged qualifications were structured to provide either a general meat processing qualification or a specialisation, including a quality specialisation in the Certificate III in Meat Processing and quality management or leadership in the Certificate IV in Meat Processing.
- Mandatory work requirements were retained where needed to ensure users can easily identify requirements and so that the qualifications are equivalent to international qualifications in countries to which Australian meat is exported.
- Two skill sets were developed: one for meat processing mentors and one to act as a pathway into the Certificate IV.
- One skill set in animal welfare was updated.
- One hundred and seventeen units were reviewed, including 15 merged to become two. Changes include:
- Industry sector codes were added to unit codes so that users can easily identify broad areas of content, aiding decisions about elective choices.
- Updates were made to ante and post-mortem inspection units to include the following: ‘A suitably qualified supervisor must hold this unit [Insert code and title of relevant species-specific ante and post-mortem inspection unit] or have equivalent and current skills and knowledge.’
- The following sentence was added to the Assessment Conditions of most units: ‘Assessment for this unit must include at least three forms of evidence’. Previously this assessment guideline was located in the Performance Evidence of a unit, with strong support for this to be located in the assessment with the Companion Volume Implementation Guide (CVIG) to provide suggested assessment methods.
- Co-assessment was included for AMPWHS201 Sharpen and handle knives safely. The Assessment Condition requires the Performance Evidence for the unit to be co-assessed with a meat processing unit that requires the use of a knife. This requirement has been added to ensure that the individual can safely sharpen and maintain a sharp edge on a knife while carrying out a real meat processing task.
- Seven units were developed to support skills in communication, meat safety, quality, and work health and safety. Two of these units are to cover the job roles of meat inspectors in micro meat processing enterprises that are located in some regional and remote areas.
- Three units were deleted and seven identified for potential deletion as part of future projects.
- A Training Package Companion Volume Implementation Guide (CVIG) was also produced to support delivery of the qualifications, skill sets and units. It includes information on assessment conditions of all units, specific advice on the assessment of meat safety units, co-assessment, mandatory workplace requirements, foundation skills, notes about Australian and Industry Standards, and terminology.
Summary of Consultation
A Subject Matter Expert Working Group was established to provide advice on the skills standard across six potential specialisations or job role streams, including:
- tracking and traceability
- meat inspection
- quality/food safety
- leadership/management
- operator skills/abattoirs
- game.
The broader industry was consulted on the draft documents at two different stages – the ‘Drafts Available’ and ‘Validation’ stages. Industry from across Australia provided input via the Skills Impact feedback hub, webinars, email, and phone.
Descriptions of how feedback has been considered and applied can be downloaded below. The documents that underwent an additional round of ‘Drafts Available’ stage feedback and the documents that underwent round one without needing a have been dealt with in separate documents. All qualifications, units and skill sets are included in the same summary of feedback and responses for the ‘Validation’ stage.
The final draft units of competency, skill sets and qualifications were endorsed by the Australian Industry and Skills Committee (AISC) on 29 November 2023 (read the communique) and have also been conisdered by the state and territory skills ministers.They have undergone an edit and equity and independent quality assurance process, including support from the Meat IRC. They have also been considered by the State/Territory Training Authorities (STAs/TTAs). They are now published on the national training register (training.gov.au).
A Companion Volume Implementation Guide was also produced to assist industry and registered training providers (RTOs) deliver the units, qualifications and skill sets. It contains key information to help trainers adapt to any new changes, as well as additional information about the impacts of regulation and licensing implications and workplace health and safety on their training
Click here to download the Case for Endorsement
Click here to download the Companion Volume Implementation guide part 1
Click here to download the Companion Volume Implementation guide part 2