Setting up an RTO?
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As your dedicated RTO Mentor & Business Coach, I bring guidance, insight and clarity and a steadfast commitment to ensuring your accountability. Together, we’ll navigate the complexities of your RTO journey, transforming challenges into stepping stones towards success.
Feeling stuck in the labyrinth of RTO setup and compliance?
You’re not alone.
You know what you want from your RTO business and yet it seems that at every turn you reach a dead-end and you’re left questioning where to turn next.
One thing isn’t clear: how to get there.
You’re probably overwhelmed by how much there is to do and frustrated that you seem to be the only one who can do it all.
You’re not alone. Let’s clear the path to clarity, efficiency, and growth in your RTO journey.
RTO Mentor
Registered Training Organisation Services
Helping you to set up your RTO so that you can get the funding and recognition your training deserves.
RTO Set Up
Looking to set-up an RTO I am here to support you, both commercially and personally so that you can create a business with impact and one that you are proud of.
Coaching to grow your RTO
Aligning your RTO with your bigger life goals, your values and, importantly, so that it sees financial success.
Experienced Mentorship
Helping you to set up your RTO so that you can get the funding and recognition your training deserves.
Whether you’re looking to set-up an RTO, grow or scale your existing RTO business, I am here to support you, both commercially and personally, so that you can create a business with impact and one that you are proud of.
Maybe you’re confused about what to prioritise, and just wish you knew what would really move the needle for you?
Or perhaps you’re just tired of grinding so hard but not getting ahead, watching everyone else around you succeed.
I’ve been there.
Having built & managed multiple RTO businesses, I know the enormous amount of things there are to do in building, managing the compliance, undertaking the marketing and running the businesses.
In helping you to become an RTO and improve your business, I draw on over 20 years of experience in managing corporate divisions and businesses, in marketing, sales, and managing RTO’s and their compliance.
All of that experience is backed-up with 15+ years’ experience of coaching and mentoring, as well as my successful entrepreneurial experience.
So in working with me, you will find I draw upon the lessons learnt from failures, successes and feedback to help YOU on your journey to enjoy more time and freedom.
- 15+ years’ experience of coaching
- 20+ years of RTO experience
- 16+ years of being in business
RTO Mentor
Expert Guidance
Navigating the intricate world of Registered Training Organisations (RTOs) requires more than just knowledge; it demands experience, insight, and a hands-on approach to overcoming obstacles and achieving excellence.
That’s where I come in. I’ve managed, marketed, optimised, trained, and held many RTO businesses accountable to achieve great success. Having been on the inside, I’ve directly navigated through the challenges and learned from mistakes, equipping me with the real-world expertise necessary to guide you to success.
Your RTO vision looks something like this:
✨ A thriving RTO business that satisfies your ambition, allows you to grow and be more than the role of being solely responsible for every task.
✨ To exceed your financial goals and have the lifestyle you really want
✨ A dynamic team where each member is empowered to contribute their expertise, creating a collaborative environment
✨ A legacy that extends beyond financial success.
Together, we’ll navigate the challenges, leverage opportunities, and turn your RTO aspirations into tangible achievements.
Set Up Your RTO for Operational Success.
Learn from the experiences of others and sidestep the most prevalent pitfalls that plague initial audit drop outs.
You’re in safe hands
RTO Mentor provides expert guidance to individuals aspiring to establish their own compliant training organisation, one that issues nationally recognised training. Our team assists you to navigate through the audit process, with attention to detail, systems, and industry-specific requirements.
Why RTO Mentor?
As an experienced RTO manager, I felt frustrated and disheartened by the recurring pattern of mismanagement and non-compliance I encountered in multiple RTOs. Each time I stepped into a new role, I was assured that the organisation was fully compliant and running smoothly, only to discover significant issues lurking beneath the surface. I would spend months and in some cases years, fixing the issues and then move on. I felt I was stuck in a never-ending loop of crisis management rather than driving genuine, industry-wide improvement.
The third time this scenario played out was the breaking point. I vividly remember walking into the office, filled with hope for a well-run RTO, and looking forward to inspiring the leaders. Only I was confronted with a mountain of compliance issues and operational inefficiencies. The stark contrast between the owner’s perception and the reality of the situation left me feeling overwhelmed and nearly brought me to tears.
Standing in that office, surrounded by evidence of systemic problems, I had an epiphany. I realized that the issue wasn’t isolated to just one or two RTOs, but was a widespread problem in the industry. At that moment, I decided that instead of continually trying to fix individual organisations from the inside, I needed to take a broader approach to create lasting change in the RTO sector.
I began researching RTO industry best practices, and effective management strategies specifically in learning & development. From all the sources I developed a comprehensive system that addressed common pitfalls and provided practical solutions for achieving and maintaining compliance. This system combined my years of hands-on experience with the latest management techniques and a deep understanding of regulatory requirements.
As an RTO consultant and mentor, I’ve been able to impact a much larger number of organisations. I now work with multiple companies and RTOs, helping them identify and address compliance issues, implement effective management systems, and create a culture of continuous improvement. The satisfaction of seeing RTOs transform from struggling entities to thriving, compliant organisations has been immensely rewarding. I know from feedback across the country that RTO Mentor has improved individual RTOs and also contributed to raising standards across the industry.
" When I first came to Merinda I was lacking knowledge in regards to the creation of an RTO, and the process involved. Merinda has a wealth of experience in training, auditing and RTO management so she was able to help and direct me in a language that I was able to understand."
"Merinda’s approach is very engaging and on a personable level combined with her knowledge of the training process she was able to simplify a complex system. Definitely call Merinda and discuss how she can help you. "
"Due to Merinda’s wealth of knowledge and experience she will be able to tailor a program for your needs. Whilst working with Merinda we have enjoyed the process, and the creation of documentation that is now used in the RTO and training space have improved in their clarity and ease of delivery. "
TestimonialS
What Others Say...
Our clients’ words speak volumes about their experiences with us. Here, you’ll find authentic accounts of how our services have made a difference in the lives and businesses of those we’ve had the privilege to serve.
"Working with Merinda at RTO Mentor has been an absolute game-changer for us. Her expertise and guidance were invaluable in planning and setting up our Registered Training Organisation (RTO)."
"Having been in the RTO industry for many years, I thought I had a good handle on running my business. However, Merinda showed me that there's always room for improvement."
"Merinda's support and insights were instrumental every step of the way. We truly couldn't have done it without her. Her professionalism, knowledge, and dedication to our success have made all the difference."
Insights & Inspiration
Explore our blog to find valuable insights, practical tips, and timely industry updates, all curated to help you stay informed and empowered in your RTO and training endeavours.
Revolutionise Your RTO: Tech-Driven Leadership for 2025 and Beyond
The key benefits of watching the webinar, aligning them with the new RTO standards and emphasising the importance of technology in meeting these standards.
Introducing the New Era of RTO Leadership!
RTO Leadership is changing. RTO leadership is needing to undergo significant changes as vocational education and training continues to change. I’ve been writing about this for years, and finally we have it written in the RTO Standards. , Today’s RTO leaders are expected to adapt their strategies, moving beyond a sole focus on compliance to cultivate a culture of excellence and innovation. This shift means so much more than what ahs happened in the past with many RTO. It means prioritising a student-centric approach that meets regulatory standards and enhances the overall learning experience. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cfr0fQdGYq8 With the recent updates to the RTO Standards, the role of RTO leaders is evolving, and we’re here to talk about what that means. What’s New?The new standards emphasise integrity, accountability, and a commitment to quality outcomes for students. As an RTO leader, you’re not just overseeing operations; you’re shaping a culture of excellence and continuous improvement. Key Responsibilities: Why It Matters: Effective leadership is critical for delivering high-quality vocational education. By taking on these changes, you can empower your team and provide exceptional support for your students. Here’s why: Quality Assurance: With the increased focus on quality outcomes, your leadership directly impacts the standard of education your RTO provides. By embracing these changes, you’re ensuring that your students receive the training that truly prepares them for their careers. By focusing on risk management and continuous improvement, you’re building an RTO that’s surviving, and thriving in a continuously changing sector. This resilience is key to long-term success. Industry Relevance: Your ability to create strong industry connections means your RTO can deliver training that’s compliant, AND genuinely valuable in the real world. This makes your graduates more employable and your RTO more reputable. As you navigate these changes successfully, you’re not just leading your RTO – you’re helping to elevate the entire VET sector. Your innovations and best practices can inspire others and contribute to the overall quality of vocational education in Australia. Student Success: The emphasis on student wellbeing and support means you have the power to create an environment where every student can thrive. Your leadership in this area can dramatically improve completion rates and student satisfaction. By championing these changes, you’re creating a culture of excellence that motivates and empowers your staff to deliver their best. Effective leadership in this new landscape isn’t just about ticking boxes – it’s about seizing the opportunity to redefine what quality vocational education looks like. By looking at these standards proactively, you’re positioning your RTO as a trusted, compliant organisation. This can lead to smoother audits and a stronger reputation with regulators. Win! You have the chance to make a real difference in the lives of your students and the strength of your industry. This is your moment to shape the future of vocational education, creating a legacy of excellence that extends far beyond your own RTO. By welcoming these changes and leading with vision and purpose, you’re going to ensure meeting standards and you’re setting new benchmarks for what vocational education can achieve. Your leadership can transform lives, boost industries, and contribute to a more skilled and prosperous Australia. I challenge you to rise together and make a lasting impact on the VET sector!
Navigating the Noise in a World of Self-Proclaimed Experts
Who are you listening to? There are many different people saying they are experts. Expert guidance seems to be everywhere. Yet there are pitfalls. We live in a business world of information-saturation. We’re bombarded with opinions, advice, and “expert” guidance from every direction. Social media, podcasts, blogs, and even well-meaning friends and family all contribute to a cacophony of voices telling us how to live, work, and succeed. But in this sea of opinions, whose voice should you really be listening to? I see and have had opinions from so many people – people who want to share their thoughts onto me and that is OK. Now, I don’t make it an issue. Yet when I wasn’t so wise to see it as “their opinion” I did allow it to become an issue. When I was younger, I fell into the trap of trying to please everyone. I listened intently to every piece of advice: “You need to speak more assertively.” “Your appearance isn’t professional enough.” “You’re too young to be taken seriously.” “You need more qualifications before you can succeed.” I tried to conform to these expectations, moulding myself into what I thought others wanted me to be. The result? I found myself running in circles, exhausted and no closer to my goals than when I started. Then I woke up and became conscious. The turning point came when I realised that in trying to please everyone, I had lost touch with the most important voice of all – my own. For me this message was the way to my freedom. To be just me and learn from my own experience. Building Meaningful Connections Getting to know the people you work with is so important. Whether they are industry stakeholders, regulatory bodies, students, clients or staff. Try these tips: Understanding Individual Contexts. Take time to learn about each person’s background, goals, and challenges. Tailored Support. Offer guidance that’s relevant to their specific situation and aspirations. Building Trust. Genuine interest and understanding create and encourage trust, making your advice more impactful. Encouraging Self-Reflection. Help others develop their own critical thinking skills rather than just providing answers. Are you listening to people who have no idea as to what it is like to be you? Everyone is unique, we all have different experiences, different ideologies. Therefore others cannot understand what it is like to be uniquely you. They don’t know you ideals, or goals. Other people’s opinions are real, for them. They have not been through your experience. They do not know what your heart says. No one should say that you shouldn’t do whatever it is you want to do. They are judging your life, by their own life. Are we paying attention to people who have no idea what you are about? This is advice you can apply now. Filter the advice. Not all advice is created equal. I learned to consider the source and how it aligned with my values and goals. Trust my instincts. Our gut feelings are often more insightful than we give them credit for. Learn from experience. Instead of relying solely on others’ opinions, I started valuing my own experiences as a source of wisdom. Seek diverse perspectives. While not accepting every opinion, I made an effort to expose myself to diverse viewpoints to broaden my understanding. Seeking Mentors, Not Just Advisors Mentors invest in understanding your unique situation and aspirations. They offer insights based on relevant experience, not just theoretical knowledge. Good mentors recognize and respect your individual journey, offering guidance without imposing their path on you. Unlike advisors who might offer quick fixes, mentors consider your long-term growth and development. For me, the people who I work with, I get to know them. Recognising Limiting Beliefs Have you ever heard someone say: “You don’t have the money” “It’s hard work” “It’s not worth it” “If you earn that much, you’ll be taxed more” These statements often reflect the speaker’s own limitations rather than your potential. Many successful RTO owners and entrepreneurs have achieved their goals by ignoring such naysayers. Be cautious of taking advice from those with poor track records, especially in specialised fields like setting up RTOs. Their experiences may not align with best practices or current industry standards. When receiving advice: Listen actively Consider the source Reflect on how it resonates with your inner wisdom Evaluate its relevance to your specific situation The Fitness Analogy I wouldn’t seek fitness advice from an overweight personal trainer. Similarly, in business, seek guidance from those who embody the success you aspire to achieve. Surrounding Yourself with Inspiration Choose associates who inspire rather than expire you Seek out those who understand and support your vision Align yourself with individuals who represent your aspirational self For those looking to set up an RTO, the support of an experienced RTO mentor is essential. Look for someone who: Has a proven track record Possesses extensive audit experience Understands the current regulatory landscape Can provide practical, actionable advice Making decisions can be challenging, but remember, you are the expert on your own life and business. Seek advice, but trust your instincts Align yourself with those who support your vision Don’t be afraid to seek specialised help when needed When you’re ready to take your RTO journey to the next level, consider working with a mentor who has been there before. We’re here to support you with the experience and knowledge you need to thrive in the RTO sector. Remember, those who truly support your growth will offer guidance that empowers you to make your own informed decisions, rather than trying to make decisions for you. So let me leave you with this knowledge and consider if you are being true to yourself and listening to the people who truly want to support you and your goals. And whilst you’re in this journey, strive to be that kind of supportive presence for others as well. So if you want to work with me, send me a message
