Whether you’re interested in working within the construction industry, or are simply looking at different employment options, you may have come across the term “white card”. So, just what is a white card and who needs to hold one?
In today’s article we answer these questions, plus explain how to obtain a white card in each state and territories of Australia. Read on to learn more!
What is a white card?
A white card shows that an individual has completed the necessary safety training to work on construction sites. Sometimes also referred to as a General Construction Induction course, the successful completion of this course is a requirement for many roles in construction. Once the course has been completed, you will be presented with a Statement of Training, allowing you to work in a number of different roles.
Who needs a white card?
There are many different roles within the construction industry that legally require a white card. This can include:
- Tradespeople
- Labourers
- Surveyors
- Workers who regularly spend time at construction zones
- Site managers
- Supervisors
- Those that access construction zones without supervision
If you’re unsure whether your role will require a white card or not, have a chat with your manager or employer. They should be able to let you know any qualifications you’ll need to begin the role.
What previous qualifications do you need to start a white card course?
You do not need any previous qualifications to begin a white card course. However, you will need to have a basic understanding of English, along with basic numeracy and literacy skills to obtain a white card.
What do you learn in a white card course?
A white card course aims to provide students with valuable information on the construction industry. This includes topics such as:
- Steps for reporting incidents or issues on a worksite
- How to reduce the risk of accidents, incidents, and injury
- Response procedures for incidents
- Ways to identify construction safety hazards
- Workplace health and safety legislation
A white card course will also teach you how to use a range of different personal protective equipment (PPE), including hard hats, reflective safety vests, eye protection, and hearing protection.
How long is a white card valid for?
As of May 2022, current white cards across Australia do not expire. In saying this, some states will require you to retake and successfully complete the course if you’ve been out of the construction industry for a certain amount of time.
White card training
White card training can vary slightly from state to state. Some states allow students to take their white card course online, while others will require students to complete their course in a face-to-face setting.
It’s important to note that the white card Construction Induction Training Card is accepted in every state and territory across Australia.
NSW, VIC, QLD white cards – virtual classroom
Express Online Training has been approved to provide white card by virtual classroom to states such as White Card NSW, White Card VIC, and White Card QLD. With these Express Online Training white card courses, you can complete the course in the comfort of your own home.
WA & TAS white cards – online at any time
We provide online options at any time for the White Card WA and White Card TAS. Like all of our online courses, our online white cards can be completed at your own pace, using your computer, tablet, or smartphone. We also provide 7-day, locally-based support, allowing you to get your questions answered quickly.
SA, NT, ACT, white cards – face-to-face learning
In South Australia, the Northern Territory, and the Australian Capital Territory, white card courses must be completed through face-to-face learning. As such, Express Online Training does not provide online learning options for these courses. However, we do have an in-built search function for finding face-to-face white card courses close to you. Simply enter in your postcode, and we’ll find a course provider nearby that offers the course.
White Card Australia online course
Our White Card Australia online course is valid for those working in all states and territories across the country (as are all white cards issued by Registered Training Organisations). These white cards are issued by Queensland and Tasmania.
White card courses at Express Online Training
Our white card online courses provide students with an opportunity to complete their white cards from home or anywhere with an internet connection. These courses can be completed on a smartphone, tablet, or computer, and we provide locally-based support 7 days a week. Express Online Training is a fully accredited Registered Training Organisation, and we also offer a price beat guarantee – so if you find the same course for a lower price elsewhere, we’ll beat the competitor’s price by 10%.
Express Online Training offers Afterpay on all white card online courses, allowing you to pay for your course in four interest-free payments. Once you’ve completed and paid for the course, you’ll be provided with a card number. Please note that those receiving a Tasmania White Card must also complete an application at a Service Tasmania shop.
Begin your online white card course at Express Online Training today!