High-Paying Jobs in Australia Without a Degree: Opportunities Requiring a White Card

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

• Role Overview:
  Work as a general labourer or site assistant, handling tasks such as moving materials, operating basic machinery, or assisting tradespeople.

• Why It Pays:
  High demand and the necessity for safety mean competitive starting wages.

• Typical Salary:
  Approximately $60K to $70K per annum.

Film & Entertainment Production

• Role Overview:
  Join a film crew as a grip, set assistant, or stagehand. Many on-set roles require knowledge of site safety.

• Why It Pays:
  Fast-paced projects and strict safety protocols mean employers value your certification.

• Typical Salary:
  Rates vary based on project scale and experience.

Event Setup & Exhibition

• Role Overview:
  Assist with setting up stages, booths, and installations for events or expos.

• Why It Pays:
  Physically demanding work that offers steady shifts and bonus opportunities.

• Typical Salary:
  Casual rates can be quite competitive, with overtime available.

Logistics, Delivery & Warehouse Operations

• Role Overview:
  Handle deliveries to construction sites or work in warehouses where high-risk environments are common.

• Why It Pays:
  Employers reward safety compliance with better wages as it allows workers to access high-risk work environments.

• Typical Salary:
  Starting wages are attractive, with added incentives in high-demand areas.

Other Specialised Roles

• Role Overview:
  Roles in outdoor work like landscaping or utility work may also require a White Card.

• Why It Pays:
  The certification adds credibility in roles where safety is paramount.

• 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:

1. 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.
2. 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).
3. Pass the Assessment:
   After your training, you’ll be assessed on your knowledge.
4. 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. 

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

• Practical Skills:
  Gain valuable, hands-on experience while earning a competitive wage.

• Mentorship:
  Work alongside experienced tradies who can pass on industry best practices.

• 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

• Attractive Starting Salaries:
  Many roles offer starting wages around $60K, with significant potential increases as you gain experience.

• 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.

Frequently Asked Questions

What exactly are “high‑paying jobs in Australia without a degree” that require a White Card?

These are roles where you don’t need a uni qualification, but a White Card is mandatory to work safely on site. They span sectors like construction, film production, event setup, and logistics.

Many of these positions offer attractive starting salaries and solid growth opportunities despite not requiring a degree.

Which industries offer these high-paying opportunities for White Card holders?

The top sectors include:

• Construction: Roles such as general labourers and site assistants can earn competitive wages.
• Film & Entertainment: On-set roles like grips and set assistants often offer good daily rates.
• Event Setup: Jobs involving the assembly and dismantling of event structures are in high demand.
• Logistics & Warehouse Operations: Positions that involve handling deliveries to high-risk sites reward safety compliance.
• Specialised Outdoor Roles: Some utility, landscaping, and maintenance positions also require a White Card, with wages reflecting the extra safety training needed.

What are the typical salary ranges for these roles?

Salary expectations can vary, but here’s a general idea:

• General Labourers: Typically earn between $60K and $80K per year.
• Film Crew Members: Daily rates can be competitive; overall earnings depend on the project.
• Event Setup Crew: Casual roles may offer hourly rates with opportunities for overtime.
• Logistics & Warehouse Roles: Starting wages are attractive, often with extra allowances for high-demand areas.
• Specialised Outdoor Jobs: Wages may be bolstered by bonus structures and shift allowances.

How does obtaining a White Card help me secure these jobs?

The White Card is your entry ticket. It proves you have the essential training in workplace safety and hazard management.

Employers prioritise candidates with a White Card because it means you’re compliant with legal requirements, reducing their risk and ensuring you’re prepared to work in hazardous environments.

This certification is especially valuable for employers looking for reliable, safety-conscious workers without a degree.

Do I need any prior experience to enrol in a White Card course and pursue these roles?

No prior experience is required to obtain a White Card. The course is designed for beginners, covering the basics of site safety and PPE usage.

Once you have your certification, you can apply for entry-level roles in various sectors. Many employers provide on-the-job training, so you can learn as you earn.

How quickly can I start earning after getting my White Card?

After completing the course and receiving your White Card, you can start applying for jobs immediately.

Many employers are in urgent need of workers who meet safety standards, so once you’re certified, you could begin earning almost right away.

The process is streamlined to help you get into work quickly.

Are these opportunities suitable for school leavers?

Absolutely. For young Aussies, these roles provide a practical alternative to uni.

The absence of a degree requirement means you can start earning early and build up valuable on-the-job experience.

Many school leavers have successfully embarked on careers in the trades, leveraging their White Card to access roles with competitive pay and long-term growth potential.

What additional certifications or skills can boost my career further?

While a White Card gets your foot in the door, upskilling is key to advancing:

• Specialised Training: Consider short courses in forklift operation, working at heights, or first aid.
• Trade Certifications: Pursue further certifications relevant to your chosen field—whether it’s carpentry, electrical work, or plumbing.
• Soft Skills: Enhance your teamwork, time management, and problem-solving abilities; these are highly valued by employers. By continually building your skills, you can move from entry-level roles to specialised or supervisory positions.

Can I expect long-term career growth without a degree?

Yes, many Aussies have built very successful careers in the trades without a degree.

Starting in an entry-level role with your White Card can lead to:

• On-the-job Learning: Gaining practical experience that translates into valuable industry skills.
• Career Advancement: Moving into specialised trades or supervisory roles as you gain experience and additional certifications.
• Lucrative Earnings: With the right progression, many roles offer competitive wages that can exceed those in some degree-required fields. The key is a commitment to continuous learning and leveraging every opportunity to upskill.

What are the main benefits of choosing a high-paying trade job with a White Card?

Choosing this path offers several advantages:

• Immediate Employability: No need for a degree means you can start working sooner.
• Competitive Wages: Many entry-level roles offer solid salaries with the potential for overtime and bonuses.
• Hands-on Experience: You gain practical skills on the job, which are highly valued in the market.
• Career Flexibility: The trades offer diverse opportunities across various sectors, allowing you to pivot or specialise as your interests evolve.
• Legal Compliance: Your White Card ensures you meet the mandatory safety requirements, making you a preferred candidate for many employers.