If you’re looking to kick-start your career without a degree and earn a decent liveable wage, there are plenty of jobs available in Australia that don’t require you to hold a university degree.
In Australia today, where uni fees and debt are a heavy burden, practical qualifications like the White Card can open doors to some of the best-paying entry-level roles around.
Not only is the White Card a legal must-have for anyone working on a construction site, but it also serves as your ticket into a range of sectors beyond traditional building work.
What Is a White Card and Why Is It Essential?
The White Card is a nationally recognised safety certification that proves you’ve completed the required training on workplace health and safety.
It’s obtained by completing the course unit CPCWHS1001 – Prepare to Work Safely in the Construction Industry.
This certification isn’t just for tradies in hard hats — it’s a key credential for anyone working in high-risk environments, whether that’s on construction sites, film sets, or during event setups.
Having a White Card means you’re compliant with the law and that you stand out to employers as someone ready to work safely and efficiently.
Sectors and Roles That Require a White Card
Contrary to popular belief, the White Card isn’t just for those in construction.
Here are some of the top sectors where it can boost your employment prospects:
Construction & General Labour
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Role Overview:
Work as a general labourer or site assistant, handling tasks such as moving materials, operating basic machinery, or assisting tradespeople.
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Why It Pays:
High demand and the necessity for safety mean competitive starting wages.
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Typical Salary:
Approximately $60K to $70K per annum.
Film & Entertainment Production
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Role Overview:
Join a film crew as a grip, set assistant, or stagehand. Many on-set roles require knowledge of site safety.
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Why It Pays:
Fast-paced projects and strict safety protocols mean employers value your certification.
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Typical Salary:
Rates vary based on project scale and experience.
Event Setup & Exhibition
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Role Overview:
Assist with setting up stages, booths, and installations for events or expos.
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Why It Pays:
Physically demanding work that offers steady shifts and bonus opportunities.
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Typical Salary:
Casual rates can be quite competitive, with overtime available.
Logistics, Delivery & Warehouse Operations
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Role Overview:
Handle deliveries to construction sites or work in warehouses where high-risk environments are common.
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Why It Pays:
Employers reward safety compliance with better wages as it allows workers to access high-risk work environments.
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Typical Salary:
Starting wages are attractive, with added incentives in high-demand areas.
Other Specialised Roles
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Role Overview:
Roles in outdoor work like landscaping or utility work may also require a White Card.
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Why It Pays:
The certification adds credibility in roles where safety is paramount.
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Typical Salary:
Earnings vary but often include bonus structures and allowances.
How to Obtain Your White Card
Getting your White Card is a straightforward process that can set you on the path to a lucrative career.
Here’s what you need to do:
- Enrol in a Course:
Choose a government-approved course through a Registered Training Organisation (RTO). Depending on your state, you may attend face-to-face sessions or, in some cases, complete the course online.
- Complete the Training:
The course covers topics such as hazard identification, safe work practices, emergency procedures, and the proper use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE).
- Pass the Assessment:
After your training, you’ll be assessed on your knowledge.
- Receive Your Certification:
Once you’ve passed, you’ll be issued a White Card, valid nationwide.
State-by-State White Card Training Requirements
Below is a table summarising how White Card training is delivered across various states:
Each Australian state and territory has its own guidelines for online White Card Australia training.
Understanding these differences is crucial for compliance.
| State/Territory |
Online Option (with Stipulations) |
Face-to-Face Option (with Stipulations) |
| New South Wales (NSW) |
Yes – Instructor-led virtual sessions only; must attend a live session (e.g., via Zoom) with a webcam and stable internet; PPE supplied by the student for demonstration purposes. |
Yes – Traditional classroom sessions available through accredited RTOs. |
| Queensland (QLD) |
Yes – Instructor-led virtual sessions; live attendance required via Zoom with a webcam, stable internet connection, and own PPE. |
Yes – Traditional classroom sessions available through accredited RTOs. |
| Victoria (VIC) |
No – Online training is not accepted. |
Yes – Face-to-face training is compulsory under WorkSafe Victoria. |
| Western Australia (WA) |
Yes – Both self-paced and instructor-led options available; a webcam is typically required during assessments; students must supply their own PPE for practical components. |
Yes – Traditional classroom sessions available through accredited RTOs. |
| South Australia (SA) |
Yes – Instructor-led virtual sessions; must attend a live session (e.g., via Zoom) with a webcam and stable internet connection; PPE supplied by the student for demonstration purposes. |
Yes – Traditional classroom sessions available through accredited RTOs. |
| Tasmania (TAS) |
Yes – Self-paced training with a live webcam assessment; must complete a live online assessment, with PPE required, and the final card is collected at a Service Tasmania centre. |
Yes – Traditional classroom sessions are available through accredited RTOs. |
| Northern Territory (NT) |
No – Online training is not accepted. |
Yes – Only face-to-face training is accepted. |
| Australian Capital Territory (ACT) |
No – Online training is not accepted. |
Yes – Only face-to-face training is accepted. |
Advantages of Pursuing a Career with a White Card
Easy Entry and Job Accessibility
For those without a degree, entry-level roles that require a White Card provide a golden opportunity.
You don’t need a fancy qualification – just the right training and a can-do attitude.
Your certification shows employers you’re ready to work safely and effectively.
On-the-Job Learning and Growth
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Practical Skills:
Gain valuable, hands-on experience while earning a competitive wage.
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Mentorship:
Work alongside experienced tradies who can pass on industry best practices.
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Career Advancement:
Start as a general labourer or site assistant and upskill into specialised trades, with opportunities to move into supervisory roles over time.
Competitive Wages and Bonuses
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Attractive Starting Salaries:
Many roles offer starting wages around $60K, with significant potential increases as you gain experience.
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Extra Earnings:
Opportunities for overtime and performance bonuses can boost your take-home pay.
Additional Certifications to Enhance Your Career
While your White Card is essential for working safely on high-risk sites, there are several additional certifications that can boost your skills, make you more attractive to employers, and lead to higher pay.
These supplementary qualifications not only expand your expertise but also demonstrate a commitment to workplace safety and professionalism.
Here are some key certifications to consider:
First Aid and Emergency Response
Obtaining a current First Aid certificate (such as HLTAID011 – Provide First Aid) is highly recommended. It equips you with vital emergency response skills, which are invaluable on construction sites and in other high-risk environments.
Employers appreciate candidates who can handle emergencies confidently, and this certification often comes with the added benefit of faster career progression and extra allowances.
Working at Heights and Confined Spaces
Certifications in Working at Heights and Confined Space Entry are crucial for roles that involve elevated work or entering restricted areas.
These courses teach you how to manage the unique risks associated with such environments, making you a more versatile worker. This extra training can be a deciding factor for employers, often translating into higher wages and more responsibility on site.
Forklift and Machinery Operation Licenses
For roles in logistics, warehousing, or on larger construction sites, obtaining a forklift license or other high-risk work licenses (such as Elevated Work Platform or Excavator tickets) can significantly enhance your career prospects.
These qualifications not only increase your employability but also allow you to handle specialised equipment safely, which is a valuable asset to any employer.
Traffic Management Certification
For those interested in roles that involve managing site logistics or working on delivery operations, a Traffic Management Certification can be an excellent addition.
This training ensures you understand how to safely manage vehicle and pedestrian movement around construction sites, further reinforcing your commitment to safety.
Asbestos Awareness and Hazardous Materials Training
If you plan to work in environments involving renovations or older constructions, obtaining Asbestos Awareness training can be highly beneficial.
This course educates you on how to identify and safely handle hazardous materials, reducing the risk of exposure and injury on the job.
Investing in these additional certifications not only broadens your skill set but also gives you a competitive edge in the job market.
By complementing your White Card with further training, you enhance your versatility, boost your earning potential, and pave the way for long-term career growth in Australia’s high-demand trade sectors.
