Kickstart Your Career: Why Every School Leaver in Australia Should Get a White Card

Just Finished School? Here’s How to Get a Job and Earning Good Money — Fast

You’ve wrapped up school, and now it’s time for the next step.

Maybe university or advanced studies isn’t for you.

Maybe you want to start working and earning good money straight away.

Or maybe you’re still just trying to figure things out, but you know one thing — you need a job.

If you’re looking for real work, good pay, and solid long-term career opportunities, getting your White Card is one of the smartest moves you can make.

It’s quick, affordable, and essential for anyone wanting to work in construction — an industry that pays extremely well and is always hiring.

In just one day, you could be ready to step onto a job site and start making decent money.

Whether you’re interested in learning a trade, saving up while you figure out your next move, or just need work that doesn’t require years of study, this is your way in.

This guide will break down why getting a White Card could be the best decision you make right now.

Why Construction? More Jobs, Better Pay, Real Skills

Not sure if construction is for you?

Here’s the reality: it’s one of the biggest industries in Australia, and it’s always looking for workers.

Whether you want to start a trade, work your way up, or just need a solid job while you figure things out, the construction industry has space for you.

• Plenty of jobs: Australia’s construction industry is booming, and that means steady work and real opportunities — even if you have no experience.

• Good pay, even at entry level: Unlike some jobs that start you on minimum wage, construction pays well from the get-go, with many roles starting at $30+ per hour.

• Skills that last a lifetime: Whether you stick with construction or move on, the skills you pick up — teamwork, problem-solving, and practical know-how, will always be valuable.

• Options to grow: You can start as a labourer and, with time and training, move into higher-paying roles like machine operation, site management, or even starting your own business.

The best part? You don’t need a degree.

You just need the right attitude and certifications to get started — and getting your White Card is step number one.

How to Get Your White Card (Step-by-Step)

Getting a White Card is quick and straightforward, but there are a few things you need to know before you start.

Here’s exactly how to get certified and ready to work.

1. Choose the Right Course

In Australia, the CPCCWHS1001 – Prepare to Work Safely in the Construction Industry course is the nationally recognised training required to get your White Card.

You can complete it:

• In-person – A full-day training session at an approved training provider.

• Online – Available in some states, with a short video verification process to confirm your ID.

2. Meet the Requirements

To enrol in a White Card course, you’ll need:

• A valid ID (e.g., driver’s licence, passport, proof of age card).

• Basic English skills to complete the course and assessments.

• A stable internet connection and webcam (for online courses).

3. Complete the Training

The course covers workplace safety, hazard awareness, and legal responsibilities on a construction site. Expect to:

• Learn about site safety rules and how to protect yourself and others.

• Understand personal protective equipment (PPE) and emergency procedures.

• Complete a short assessment to test your knowledge.

4. Receive Your White Card

Once you pass the course:

• Your interim certificate (valid for work in some states) is issued straight away.

• Your physical White Card is mailed to you — usually within 7-10 business days.

Once you’ve got your White Card, you’re ready to step onto a job site and start your career.

Where Can a White Card Take You?

So, you’ve got your White Card — what now?

This certification opens more doors than you might think, giving you access to a range of job opportunities across different industries.

1. Entry-Level Construction Jobs

A White Card is mandatory for anyone stepping onto a construction site.

Common starting roles include:

• Labourer – Assisting tradespeople, moving materials, and general site work.

• Trades Assistant – Working alongside carpenters, electricians, and plumbers.

• Traffic Controller – Managing vehicle and pedestrian movement on worksites.

2. Apprenticeships & Traineeships

If you’re considering a trade career, a White Card is your first step before starting an apprenticeship. Popular trades include:

• Carpentry

• Electrical

• Plumbing

• Bricklaying

• Painting & decorating

3. Mining & Civil Construction

A White Card is required for many roles in mining, roadworks, and large-scale infrastructure projects.

Jobs in these industries often come with higher pay and opportunities to work across Australia.

4. Warehousing & Logistics

Even if you’re not planning on working directly in construction, having a White Card can be useful in warehouses, transport, and logistics — especially for roles that involve operating near heavy machinery.

5. Event & Film Set Work

Surprisingly, many people in event production, stage setup, and film crews also need a White Card.

If you’re interested in behind-the-scenes work at festivals, concerts, or film shoots, this certification could come in handy.

6. Future Career Growth

A White Card doesn’t just help you land a job — it sets you up for long-term career growth.

With experience, you can move into:

• Supervisory roles (site foreman, project manager)

• Specialised trades (rigging, scaffolding, crane operation)

• Safety roles (Work Health & Safety officer)

Tips for Landing Your First Job After Getting Your White Card

Getting your foot in the door of the construction industry can feel overwhelming, especially if you don’t have prior experience.

But don’t stress — here’s how to boost your chances and start your career strong.

1. Apply for Entry-Level Roles ASAP

Many school leavers make the mistake of waiting too long to start applying.

The reality? You don’t need years of experience to get a start in construction — you just need a strong work ethic and a willingness to learn.

Look for:

• Labourer and trade assistant roles

• Traffic control positions (some may require traffic control certification)

• Apprentice opportunities (carpentry, electrical, plumbing, etc.)

2. Get Your Resume Construction-Ready

Even if you don’t have on-site experience, you can still build a strong resume.

Employers value skills like:

• Reliability and punctuality

• Willingness to work hard and learn

• Teamwork and communication

• Any hands-on experience (even if it’s just helping a family member with DIY projects)

Keep it short, clear, and to the point — one page is enough.

3. Network & Ask Around

Construction jobs are often filled through word of mouth.

Ask family, friends, or even your local hardware store if they know of any companies hiring.

If you’ve got tradies in your network of friends and family, let them know you’re looking — they might be able to get you on-site as a labourer or apprentice.

4. Show Up & Stand Out

Some employers hire directly from job sites — yes, that means literally walking onto a site (safely) and asking if they need an extra set of hands.

If you do this, make sure you:

• Wear appropriate work gear (hi-vis, boots)

• Have your White Card ready to show

• Speak confidently and show enthusiasm

It may not work every time, but persistence pays off and employers will definitely respect your initiative and enthusiasm. 

5. Consider Extra Tickets & Certifications

While a White Card is your entry ticket, some additional training can make you more employable.

Short courses in Working at Heights, Traffic Control, or Forklift Operation can set you apart from other job seekers.

6. Use Online Job Boards & Social Media

Websites like Seek, Indeed, and Jora regularly list entry-level construction jobs.

Facebook groups and LinkedIn can also be surprisingly good for job leads — some small companies post directly there before advertising elsewhere.

7. Sign Up with a Labour Hire Agency

Labour hire agencies can be a great way to land your first construction job.

These agencies connect you with short-term and long-term work, helping you gain experience and get your foot in the door.

While there are plenty of options out there, TURSA Employment is one we highly recommend.

They have strong industry connections and specialise in helping new workers find their first opportunities in construction.

Registering with a trusted agency can speed up the job search and give you access to a wider range of employers.

Look for one that offers good job placements, fair pay, and solid support for entry-level workers.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Do I need experience to get a job after getting my White Card?

No, many entry-level construction jobs don’t require prior experience.

Employers are looking for workers who are reliable, willing to learn, and have the necessary safety training — your White Card proves that. Starting with general labouring roles is a great way to gain experience and build connections.

2. How long does a White Card last?

Your White Card doesn’t expire, but if you haven’t worked in construction for two or more years, you may need to complete a refresher or take additional training, depending on employer requirements.

3. Can I work interstate with my White Card?

Yes! White Cards are nationally recognised, meaning you can work in any Australian state or territory. Just make sure you’re aware of any specific safety requirements in the state where you’re working.

4. How do I prove I have a White Card if I lose it?

If you lose your White Card, contact the training provider that issued it. They can assist with a replacement. In the meantime, some employers may accept a digital copy of your certification as proof.

5. What’s the best way to find my first job in construction?

Start by checking job boards (Seek, Indeed, Jora), signing up with labour hire agencies, and asking around in your network. Many tradies and site supervisors hire through word-of-mouth, so let people know you’re looking for work.

6. What gear do I need to start work on a site?

Most worksites require steel-capped boots, high-vis clothing, a hard hat, and protective eyewear. Some employers will provide gear, but it’s a good idea to have your own basics ready before your first job.

7. Can I use my White Card for mining jobs?

A White Card allows you to work on civil construction projects, which can include some mining-related jobs, but many mining roles require additional safety training like an MSHA (Mine Safety) or Standard 11 certification.

8. What’s the pay like for entry-level construction jobs?

Wages vary depending on the job type and location, but general labourers typically earn between $28–$35 per hour, with higher rates for night shifts, weekend work, and union sites. As you gain experience, your earning potential increases.

9. Should I get extra training to improve my job chances?

Yes! While a White Card is the minimum requirement, adding tickets like Working at Heights, Confined Spaces, or Traffic Control can make you a more competitive candidate and open up more job opportunities.

10. What if I’m struggling to find a job?

If you’re not getting many leads, try:

• Expanding your job search to different types of construction work.

• Signing up with multiple labour hire agencies.

• Asking local businesses in person — some employers prefer hiring on the spot.

• Checking out government employment programs for young workers in Australia.