API resources

STARS is using REST APIs as its architectural style. The STARS API resource model aligns with the draft VET Information Standard (VET IS) to organise VET activity data into logical groupings that reflect how training organisations manage students and training. The model is designed as a flexible and modernised way to report Vocational Educational and Training (VET) data, replacing the current AVETMISS submission process based on NAT files.

Resources will utilise unique identifiers (see Immutable keys), managed by SMS providers, to allow updates in real time.

This model supports

  • Incremental reporting and partial updates

  • Early detection of data issues via provisional validation

  • Reduced duplication (e.g. personal information sent only when changed)

  • Stronger relational integrity between related records.

Page contents:

Resource operations

STARS uses standard HTTP methods to expose resources via API endpoints. For example, GET and POST operations will retrieve and create resources, respectively.

Uploading resources

Uploaded resources are held in STARS in a transaction batch until validated or submitted. At this stage, only the structure of the data is checked (format, identifiers, required fields). You can continue to add or replace records across resources (students, enrolments, offerings, etc.) in any order. Records are not treated as formally reported until final submission.

Top level resources

Top level resources are named after VET reporting concepts like student, program enrolment or delivery location. The naming logic reflects this. Top level resources may reference one another and can have child objects. The table below describes Stage 1 top level API resources.

Resource

Purpose

Student

Identifies a learner and their personal details (name, date of birth, gender, addresses, Indigenous status, disability status, language spoken)

DeliveryLocation

Physical location where training occurs. Holds its own address fields (street, suburb, postcode, state, country)

Program

A VET course, including occupational identifier, provider-defined nominal hours and vocational training indicator

Subject

A VET subject, including provider-defined nominal hours and vocational training indicator

ProgramOffering

Links a program to a program enrolment

SubjectOffering

Links a subject to a subject enrolment

ProgramEnrolment

Records enrolment in a program (qualification, skill set, accredited course). Includes status, start/end dates, and completion information

SubjectEnrolment

Records enrolment in a subject (unit/module). Captures delivery mode, hours, outcomes, and completion

Differences from AVETMISS

  • Resources map to logical groupings instead of NAT files

  • Addresses are structured as objects (permanent, term, postal) rather than single flat fields

  • Supports progressive submission - no need for complete annual file compilation