Statement of Attainment vs Verification of Competency: What Employers and Workers Need to Know
In high-risk industries such as construction, mining, civil and agriculture, the terms VOC and SOA are often used interchangeably — but they mean very different things. Understanding the difference is critical for employers, supervisors and workers to remain compliant and safe on site.
Statement of Attainment (SOA)
A Statement of Attainment (SOA) is a nationally recognised document issued by a Registered Training Organisation (RTO) when a person successfully completes a Unit of Competency.
This is the formal qualification that proves someone has been trained and assessed against the requirements of the nationally endorsed training package. For example:
- Completing a Working at Heights course results in an SOA for that unit.
- Completing a machinery unit such as excavator, skid steer or roller operation results in an SOA for that plant item.
- High Risk Work licences (such as Dogging or Crane) also require completion of the relevant unit of competency before a licence is issued.
An SOA confirms that the individual has met the required standard at the time of training. It is evidence of formal training and competency.
Verification of Competency (VOC)
A Verification of Competency (VOC) is different.
A VOC is not a new qualification and does not replace a Statement of Attainment. Instead, it is a site-specific or employer-required assessment used to confirm that a person who already holds the relevant SOA or licence is still competent to operate the plant or perform the task safely.
A VOC is typically required when:
- An operator starts with a new employer.
- A project has specific site requirements.
- There has been a long gap since the operator last used the equipment.
- An incident or safety concern has occurred.
A VOC usually involves practical observation, questioning, and review of licences or SOAs. It verifies current ability — not initial training.
The Key Difference
- SOA = Formal training and nationally recognised qualification.
- VOC = Workplace verification that the person remains competent.
An SOA shows that someone has been trained and deemed competent at a point in time. A VOC confirms they can still apply those skills safely in a real-world, current workplace setting.
Why the Confusion Matters
Employers sometimes request a “VOC” when they actually need proof of formal training (an SOA), or assume a VOC replaces the need for proper qualifications — which it does not.
Both documents serve important but different purposes:
- The SOA meets training and compliance requirements.
- The VOC supports ongoing workplace safety and risk management.
Understanding the distinction helps ensure compliance with WHS obligations, reduces risk, and keeps worksites safer for everyone involved.