Developed in response to changes in Australia's vocational education and training system to help maintain a skilled and adaptable workforce, this report examines principles and practices regarding arrangements for the recognition of prior learning (RPL) in Australia. The first section of the report discusses the context of report, highlights key principles of RPL, and provides definitions of key terms. The second section reviews recent developments in RPL, including the growing international acceptance and the application of RPL in Australia. This section also describes types of recognition, including appropriate placement of individuals in courses/programs, certification of skilled individuals to practice in regulated occupations, and assessment of employee competencies, and reviews the benefits for individuals, training providers, employers, immigrants, and the community. Section 3 discusses issues surrounding the implementation of RPL, including resource-efficient approaches, attitudinal barriers, costs, and standards for recognition. The final section describes exemplary practices in Australia for each stage of RPL, including publicity, initial support and counseling, applications, assessment, post-assessment guidance, and certification. Extensive appendixes provide findings from a national study of applications of RPL for vocational education students, higher education students, certified individuals in regulated occupations, and employers. A list of report contributors and 49 references are included. (MAB)