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The cornerstone for the vocational education and training system reform in Australia is the development of competency based training. The competency based training system includes the establishment of competency standards within each occupation classification, training curriculum to meet those standards, and mechanisms for assessing the skills of individuals against such standards and the certification of skills possessed. Recognition of prior learning (RPL) processes enables the recognition of competencies acquired through skills developed outside the workforce, through on-the-job training, through accredited courses and through training programs undertaken overseas. The recognition of skills acquired informally is of especial significance to women and disadvantaged groups. Industry partners and government agree that a nationally consistent approach to recognition is needed. The project to develop and trial RPL was divided into three parts. In Part A 12 occupations were selected to trial the RPL process. Competency schedules were developed for each occupation and guidelines for managing the process were developed into a manual. Information booklets for applicants were also produced. The trialling process began in late 1991 and is reviewed here. Part B focussed on the development of an assessment mechanism to facilitate the entry and re-entry of women into the workforce. By recognising their competencies the women were directed into occupations related to their competencies. Part C examined processes in the ACT hospitality industry for RPL and competency based training. The ACT experience was then analysed and compared with the new national approach. Selected documents are included.