If you’re interested in beginning your career within the construction industry, obtaining a white card is often the first step. Fortunately, the steps for getting a white card in Australia are relatively straightforward. In this article, we’ll guide you through the process of acquiring your white card, answering a few commonly asked questions and covering both face-to-face and online learning options.
What is a white card in Australia?
Put simply, a white card is a nationally recognised certification that allows individuals to work on construction sites in Australia. The purpose of the white card is to ensure that all individuals working on construction sites have a basic understanding of workplace health and safety principles. This not only protects the workers themselves but also promotes a safe environment for everyone involved in the construction projects.
Who needs a white card Australia?
The white card is mandatory for anyone involved in construction work in Australia. It demonstrates that you have the knowledge to identify hazards, prevent workplace accidents, and comply with safety regulations. Without it, you cannot legally work on any construction site.
People that are required to hold a valid white card include:
- Tradespeople
- Labourers
- Surveyors
- Workers who regularly spend time at construction zones
- Site managers
- Supervisors
- Those that access construction zones without supervision
How do I get a white card in Australia?
There are a few ways to obtain a white card in Australia. Depending on the state or territory you live in, you may be able to choose between completing the course online or in a face-to-face classroom setting. There are a few pros and cons to both options, so let’s take a closer look at each one.
Face-to-face learning option
The face-to-face learning option involves attending a physical classroom and completing the course in person. This may be beneficial for those who prefer hands-on learning or have difficulty understanding course material through online methods. Additionally, this option allows for direct interaction with trainers and other participants, which can enhance learning and provide opportunities to ask questions and clarify any confusion in person.
While face-to-face learning can be advantageous for some, this option may not be feasible for those who live in remote or rural areas and do not have easy access to training facilities. It also may not be suitable for those with busy schedules or limited availability as it requires physically attending a course at a specific time and location. Face-to-face courses may also be more expensive than online options.
Online learning option
The online learning option typically provides more flexibility as the course can be completed at a time and place convenient to the student. This can be beneficial for individuals who have busy schedules or are unable to attend face-to-face training due to location or other commitments. The course material is presented through interactive modules which may include videos, quizzes, and simulations to help engage learners and ensure understanding of key concepts.
Express Online Training offers white card Australia online course options for a number of different states. This includes the White Card (NSW), White Card (QLD), White Card (WA), and the White Card (TAS). With Express Online Training, you can complete the course at your own pace and in the comfort of your own home, making it a convenient option for those with busy schedules or limited access to face-to-face training.
Steps to obtain your white card
The steps to obtaining your white card will vary slightly depending on the Registered Training Organisation (RTO) you choose, and whether you decide to complete your white card in person or online.
Choose your training mode
First, you’ll need to decide whether you wish to complete your white card training through a face-to-face or online classroom setting. This may also depend on whether your state/territory allows online training.
Select an RTO
Whether you’re opting for face-to-face or online training, ensure the RTO is accredited to provide white card training. You’ll want to choose a reputable RTO that is recognised and accepted by your state/territory.
Enrol in the course
Once you’ve selected an RTO, you can then enrol in the white card course. This typically involves completing an online registration form and paying the required fees (where fees are taken before completion).
Complete the course
Attend the full-day session or complete the online modules at your own pace. Once you have completed the course, you will need to pass a knowledge assessment to demonstrate your understanding of workplace health and safety requirements.
Obtain your white card
Once you have successfully completed the course and passed the assessment, your RTO will issue you with your white card. This may be in physical form or as a digital copy that can be downloaded and printed.
Acquiring a white card is an essential step for anyone aspiring to work in the Australian construction industry. Whether you prefer the structure of face-to-face learning or the flexibility of online courses, there are options available to suit your needs (pending state/territory legislation).
Ready to get started? Enrol in an Express Online Training white card course today and take the first step towards a career in construction.
