National training regulator failing: Carr

The national training regulator has defended its track record after being accused of failing to properly crack down on dodgy private colleges.

Labor senator Kim Carr says the Australian Skills Quality Authority couldn't "track a bleeding elephant through snow" amid concerns about students being left with poor qualifications and abuse of taxpayer funding.

"We have not failed in our responsibilities," regulator chief commissioner Christopher Robinson told a Senate estimates hearing on Wednesday.

Mr Robinson said the regulator had conducted 5000 audits since it commenced, with a further 800 more scheduled.

Over 356 training organisations had their registrations cancelled or suspended - the equivalent of nine per cent of total regulated providers.

But he said until students complained about a training provider, they won't come under scrutiny.

"I think we are fit for purpose, but we could be fitter for purpose," Mr Robinson said.