Yes, the Essential Learning Module (ELM) is mandatory for maintaining your accreditation. Failure to provide evidence of completion by 30 September 2025 may result in the issuance of demerit points or suspension of your accreditation.

The Essential Learning Module focuses on the AS/NZS 4777.1:2024 standard ensuring that installers remain up to date with critical industry knowledge and best practices. Sometimes, SAA mandates certain training when there are changes to standards that apply across the installer network. This will not happen every year, but when a module is deemed essential, installers should ensure that they complete it within the required timeframe to maintain compliance.

Following the steps below BEFORE THE 30 SEPTEMBER 2025, will help you meet all of your requirements of your accreditation: 

Step 1: Choose how you will complete the ELM 

You have three ways to complete the Essential Learning Module (ELM):

1. SAA – Essential Learning Module on AS/NZS 4777.1:2024 – check your emails for a CPD Hub link from Solar Accreditation Australia – CPD Hub sent on 30 June. Once you set up your login, you can access the ELM  

If you complete the module via SAA, your points will be automatically assigned, and no further action is required. 

2. GSES – AS/NZS 4777.1:2024 Updates – 20 CPD points towards your annual total. This course will take you approximately 3 hours. You must upload proof of completion to your SAA portal by 30 September 2025. 

3. SEC – AS/NZS 4777.1 Module Part 1 to Part 6  – 6 courses at 15 CPD points per course. You must complete all six courses to meet the requirement – this will take you approximately 6 hours. You must upload proof of completion to your SAA portal by 30 September 2025.

If you choose GSES or SEC, make sure to obtain evidence of completion and upload it before the 30 September deadline.

Upload proof of completion :

1. Click here and log in to your SAA Portal.

2. Select the relevant training course from the drop-down list.

3. Enter the course completion date (the course selected and the completion date need to match the CPD certificate uploaded). 

4. Upload the CPD certificate and click submit.

You can use the Step–by–Step Guide to help you.

If you complete the module via SAA, your points will be automatically assigned, and no further action is required.

If you have recently completed the Essential Learning Module (ELM) but your training provider has not yet issued your certificate or other proof of completion, you will still need to submit evidence of completion by 30 September 2025 to avoid further action. 

To resolve this issue: 

1. Contact your training provider immediately and request the certificate or any official documentation confirming your completion. 

2. Ensure you upload the evidence to your SAA portal as soon as you receive it.

You will receive 20 CPD points credited towards your annual requirement once you have completed the Essential Learning Module (ELM) and uploaded your evidence. 

If you complete the course through the SAA CPD Hub, you will not need to upload evidence; the points will automatically be attributed to your accreditation number.

Failure to complete the Essential Learning Module (ELM) by 30 September 2025 will result in the following : 

• 5 demerit points being issued for non-compliance with the accreditation scheme requirements, and  

• You will receive a show cause notice, giving you 28 days to explain why SAA should not suspend your accreditation.

If you receive a show cause notice, you have the following options: 

1. You can choose to complete ELM within the 28-day response period. This will mean: 

• Your accreditation will not be suspended, but the 5 demerit points will remain on your record for two years. You MUST submit your evidence before the 28-day period concludes. 

2. You can respond to the notice with valid reasons for your non-compliance. If you choose to respond: 

• SAA will only consider valid reasons for non-compliance, and not all reasons will be accepted. 

• High work demands will not be considered valid, as installers have had 8 months to complete the module and received multiple reminders. 

Valid reasons include:  

• Prior illness or injury that began before the due date, preventing you from working in the industry. 

• You must be willing and able to provide a medical certificate confirming the illness or injury and specifying the dates during which you were unable to comply. 

If your reasons are considered valid, SAA will work with you on a revised timeline to complete the module. 

3. If you choose not to respond: 

• Your accreditation will be suspended on the 30th day following the issuance of the show cause notice. 

• Relevant regulators will be notified of your suspension, and you may not be able to participate in incentive schemes offered by the Commonwealth or state governments. 

• Your accreditation will remain in a suspended state until you complete the ELM requirements. If your accreditation remains in a suspended state for 12 months, your accreditation will be cancelled.