Australia’s thriving construction industry provides employment for many Australians and is a major contributor to the country’s economy. However, this industry can also be hazardous, which is why it’s important to ensure safety practices are followed and training is maintained.
The white card (now also known as the general construction induction card) is a vital requirement for all workers involved in construction activities. This nationally recognised card is mandated by the Australian government to ensure that all workers have undergone proper training and understand the importance of workplace health and safety.
Obtaining a white card is a great way to gain more employment opportunities. It opens the door to a range of different construction roles. So, how long does it take to get a white card? In this article, we’ll cover the approximate timeframe for how long it can take to obtain a white card, along with the steps involved in acquiring one. Let’s get started.
What is a white card?
A white card certifies that a worker has completed the mandatory General Construction Induction Training (CPCWHS1001: Prepare to Work Safely in the Construction Industry). This training is designed to educate workers on safe work practices, hazard identification, risk management, and emergency procedures, among other essential skills needed in the construction industry. It is compulsory for all construction workers, including labourers, tradespeople, supervisors, and site managers to hold a valid white card.
Why obtain a white card?
A white card is a legal requirement in Australia, and without one, you can’t legally work on construction sites. What’s more, having a white card opens the door to a range of different construction roles. This can provide more job opportunities and prospects, both short-term and long-term.
By taking the time to get a white card, you can demonstrate that you are serious about safety in the workplace and have a commitment to working safely. This can make you more attractive to employers. Completing a white card course also allows you to gain a greater insight into safety requirements and protocols, which could help you perform better in a potential construction job.
Obtaining a white card before you start applying for construction jobs shows your commitment to safety and your eagerness to work within the industry. Having a valid white card could also help you stand out from other applicants during the application phase of job hunting.
How long does it take to get a white card in Australia?
So, how long does it take to get a white card? The time it takes to obtain a white card depends on several factors, including the chosen training method and your learning pace. Generally, it takes around six hours to complete the training and assessment.
At Express Online Training, our online white card courses allow you to complete the training in your own time and at your own pace. With our online course, it’s easy to start and stop the course as needed. This means if you need to pause your white card study or even change devices between your phone and laptop, you can do so easily.
Steps for obtaining a white card
The process of obtaining a white card in Australia involves the following steps:
- Step 1: Enrol in an RTO-accredited course, for either online or in-person study.
- Step 2: Complete the course (this will typically take around six hours). With an online course, you can take your time and complete the white card study at your own pace and at times that suit your schedule.
- Step 3: Pass the assessment to show you understand the course material provided and are capable of working safely in the construction industry.
- Step 4: Receive your white card certificate. At Express Online Training, when you complete one of our online white card courses, you can then receive a same-day certificate online.
Where can I get a white card online?
Many states and territories allow you to obtain a white card online through an RTO such as Express Online Training. Currently, you can get a white card online in the following states and territories:
- Queensland Virtual White Card Course
- Western Australia Online White Card Course
- Tasmania Online White Card Courses
- New South Wales Virtual White Card Courses
Unfortunately, online white card courses are not currently offered in the below locations:
- South Australia
- Northern Territory
- Australian Capital Territory
For South Australia, the Northern Territory, and the Australian Capital Territory white cards, you’ll need to attend an in-person, face-to-face white card course.
However, Express Online Training also offers a White Card Australia Online course which is valid for work in all states. This option can be handy for those that are looking to move around the country and require a white card for multiple states.
Regardless of where you live, if you’re looking for a white card, Express Online Training can help you get qualified quickly and easily online.
Is getting a white card easy?
Whether or not you find a white card course easy to complete will depend on individual factors. This can include your prior knowledge and understanding of the topics covered in the training. The course does have some concepts and terminology that may be challenging, so it is important to take your time and absorb the information provided.
Additionally, If you are struggling to understand any course content, speak with your instructor or trainer for further clarification. At Express Online Training, our white card course support is available 7 days a week to answer any questions or queries you may have.
Our white card courses are designed to make the process as straightforward and easy to understand as possible. We ensure there is ample support available to help you through the course journey.
How long does a white card last?
It is important to note that white cards do not have an expiry date. However, if a worker has not worked in the construction industry for a period of two or more years, consecutively, their white card becomes invalid. If your white card becomes invalid, you will need to retake the course in order to work within the construction industry again. If you do not stop working within the construction industry, your white card will remain valid.
In summary, obtaining a white card in Australia typically takes between a few days to a few weeks, depending on the chosen training method and the time taken to receive the card by mail. The process is streamlined and straightforward, ensuring that all construction workers have the necessary knowledge and skills to maintain a safe working environment.
If you’re interested in obtaining a white card, Express Online Training offers comprehensive online courses for several states and territories, as well as same-day certificates so you can get started on your new career path, sooner. With our online white card courses, you can gain the qualifications you need to work in the construction industry, without having to attend an in-person course. Enrol today and get your white card!