For those working in the construction industry in Australia, holding a valid white card is compulsory for finding and keeping work. Yet, many workers are unclear about how long their white card remains valid and whether it needs renewal. Depending on your state or territory, the rules differ, which can add to the confusion.
In this guide, we’ll explain how long the construction white card lasts in each state, whether or when you need to renew it, plus a number of frequently asked questions relating to the white card construction card.
What is a white card in construction?
A white card is a nationally recognised certification required for all construction workers in Australia. It proves you’ve completed general construction induction training and that you understand how to work safely on construction sites. The white card covers essential topics, such as identifying workplace hazards, understanding safety procedures, and knowing your responsibilities under work health and safety (WHS) laws.
Who needs a white card in Australia?
It’s mandatory for a variety of Australian workers across different roles to hold a valid white card. This list includes:
- Labourers
- Site managers and supervisors
- Tradespeople that enter construction zones (including electricians, carpenters, and plumbers)
- Surveyors that enter construction zones
- Architects and engineers that supervise construction sites
- Anyone involved in construction-related work
How do I get a construction white card?
To get a white card, you’ll need to complete a general construction induction training course provided by a Registered Training Organisation (RTO). The exact process may differ slightly, but will likely involve the following steps:
Step 1: Enroll in an accredited course
Look for an RTO that offers the white card course. Make sure that they provide accredited training. Depending on where you live, you may be able to choose between completing the white card online or in an in-person session.
Step 2: Complete the training
During the course, you’ll learn essential workplace safety practices. The exact amount of time the construction white card training takes will depend on who you choose to go with, but should be around 6 to 8 hours of study.
Step 3: Pass the assessment
At the end of the course, you must pass a test to demonstrate your knowledge of construction safety in order to obtain your construction white card.
Step 4: Receive your white card
Upon successful completion, your RTO will issue you with your white card. You’ll need to carry this at all times when working on-site.
How long does a white card last?
White cards do not expire, but their validity depends on whether you’re actively working in the construction industry. If you have not performed construction work for two consecutive years, your white card will no longer be valid, and you may need to undertake retraining. However, specific guidelines may differ across states and territories. Below, we break down the rules for each region.
How long does a white card last in NSW?
A white card issued in New South Wales does not have an expiry date. However, if you’re out of the construction industry for two years or more, our white card will become voice, and you will need to retake the construction induction training to refresh your knowledge and ensure you’re compliant with WHS practices.
How long does a white card last in QLD?
Queensland also does not impose an official expiry date on white cards. However, refresher training will be required if you’ve been out of the industry for more than two years. Workers are encouraged to maintain current knowledge of workplace safety standards, especially if they have been absent from the industry for an extended period.
How long does a white card last in WA?
In Western Australia, your white card remains valid for life as long as you continue working in the construction industry. However, if you leave the industry and don’t engage in construction work for more than two years, you will need to complete a refresher course before returning to the field.
How long does a white card last in VIC?
White cards in Victoria remain valid for life. If you stop working in construction for more than two years, you’ll likely need to retake the induction training to ensure you’re up to date with the latest safety protocols. To prevent the risk of non-compliance, getting a refresher is a good idea even if it’s not officially mandated in Victoria.
How long does a white card last in SA?
South Australian white cards also do not have an official expiry date. However, the state follows the general rule that construction white cards no longer be recognised if the holder hasn’t worked in construction for more than two years. To maintain validity, you will need to complete a refresher course to update your knowledge and skills.
How long does a white card last in TAS?
White cards issued in Tasmania do not expire, but those who have left the sector for two or more years will be required to undertake a refresher course in order for their white card to be valid. This is to ensure that workers are up-to-date with the latest safety standards and regulations in the construction industry.
How long does a white card last in the ACT?
The ACT adheres to the same rule as most other states and territories—white cards remain valid indefinitely unless you’ve been inactive in the industry for two or more years. After this time, refresher training is required in order to return to work within the construction industry.
How long does a white card last in the NT?
White cards in the Northern Territory do not have a pre-set expiration date. However, similar to other regions, the two-year rule applies. It’s recommended that workers who have been absent from the construction sector for more than two years redo their training before returning to work.
Why choose Express Online Training for your white card construction course?
Express Online Training is an RTO that offers the construction white card online course. These white card courses are designed for mobile devices, and can easily be completed from home. There are no statutory declaration forms required, and you’ll have access to fully qualified and locally-based support 7 days a week (including until late on weekdays).
If you need guidance or updates on maintaining your white card, check with the regulatory body in your state or territory. They may also provide resources to help you stay up-to-date on construction industry safety standards and regulations.
At Express Online Training, we strive to make the process of obtaining your white card as easy and convenient as possible. Our online courses are designed to be accessible for everyone, and our team is dedicated to providing support whenever it’s needed.