Buying a CRICOS RTO can significantly accelerate entry into Australia’s international education sector by reducing setup time, providing existing operational infrastructure, and enabling faster market access. However, completing the acquisition is only the beginning. For many buyers, the first 90 days after buying a CRICOS RTO represent the highest-risk period. While ownership may change, regulatory
Buying an RTO in Australia: A Guide for Local & Overseas Investors
Navigating the purchase of a Registered Training Organisation (RTO) raises important questions, especially for overseas investors. As a leading RTO broker in Australia, ANK Corp provides clear answers to guide your journey to buy an RTO.
1. Who can buy an RTO in Australia?

Good news for international investors: there are no citizenship or residency requirements to own an RTO. Foreign individuals and overseas companies are permitted to purchase one. The critical factor is compliance. The Australian regulator, ASQA, must be satisfied that all owners and key personnel are “fit and proper persons.” This vetting process is standard for every application.
2. Does the owner have to be in Australia?

While the owner can be based overseas, the RTO’s operational leader cannot. A core ASQA requirement is that your nominated Principal Executive Officer (PEO) must ordinarily reside in Australia. This makes having a local presence essential for compliance and day-to-day management, a key detail any experienced RTO broker will emphasise.
3. Can the entire purchasing process be done overseas?

Yes. The logistical process to buy an RTO can be managed remotely. A competent RTO broker in Australia can facilitate the entire purchase—from identifying suitable businesses and virtual negotiations to managing due diligence and legal paperwork—all online.
However, post-purchase operations cannot be run from abroad. Your RTO must be an Australian-registered company, have a physical location for audits, and be managed by your local PEO.
Ready to Navigate Your RTO Purchase?
Understanding these rules is the first step. Partnering with a specialist RTO broker like ANK Corp is the next. We provide expert guidance for both local and international clients looking to buy an RTO successfully.
Contact ANK Corp, your trusted RTO broker in Australia, for a confidential consultation today.
Disclaimer: This is general information and not legal advice. Seek professional counsel for your specific situation.




