Table of Contents
Key Takeaways
- ✓ Mandatory for Construction Workers: A White Card is legally required for anyone performing construction work in Queensland.
- ✓ Face-to-Face Training Required: Online-only White Card courses are not accepted in Queensland. You must complete in-person training with a WorkSafe QLD-approved RTO.
- ✓ Valid Across Australia: White Cards issued by approved RTOs in other states are recognised in Queensland, but older cards may require refresher training.
- ✓ Penalties for Non-Compliance: Working without a White Card in QLD can result in fines exceeding $3,000 for individuals and even higher penalties for businesses.
- ✓ No Expiry with Active Use: A White Card remains valid as long as you work in construction, but a gap of two or more years requires retraining.
- ✓ Statewide Training Locations Available: National White Card Courses offers face-to-face training in Brisbane, Gold Coast, Sunshine Coast, Ipswich, and more.
Understanding the White Card Requirements in Queensland
If you work in the construction industry in Queensland, you are legally required to hold a White Card.
This certification proves you have completed the necessary training in workplace health and safety (WHS) for construction sites.
Without it, you cannot legally step onto a worksite in QLD.
Queensland has strict Workplace Health and Safety (WHS) regulations, making it essential to choose a training provider that meets government-approved standards.
Who Needs a White Card in QLD?
The Work Health and Safety Regulation (QLD) mandates that anyone performing construction work must hold a White Card.
This includes:
- Labourers and tradespeople (e.g., electricians, plumbers, carpenters)
- Site supervisors and project managers
- Apprentices and trainees
- Engineers and architects who visit construction sites
- Anyone involved in demolition or renovation work
If you are entering the industry for the first time or moving to Queensland from another state, you must ensure your White Card is valid under the latest QLD regulations for White Card training and certification.
How to Get a White Card in QLD
To obtain a White Card in Queensland, you must complete a face-to-face training course with an RTO (Registered Training Organisation) approved by WorkSafe QLD.
Online-only courses are no longer accepted in Queensland.
QLD White Card Course Requirements
A White Card course in QLD covers essential safety topics, including:
- Identifying construction hazards and risks
- Understanding legal requirements for workplace safety
- Using personal protective equipment (PPE)
- Responding to incidents and emergencies
How Long Does a White Card Last in QLD?
A White Card does not expire if you remain active in the construction industry.
However, if you have not worked in construction for two years or more, you must retrain and obtain a new White Card to comply with QLD safety regulations.
Where Can You Complete Your White Card Training in QLD?
As a Registered Training Organisation (RTO), National White Card Courses is approved to provide White Card training across the state of Queensland.
We offer courses at multiple convenient locations, ensuring accessibility for construction workers throughout the state.
QLD White Card Training Locations
Brisbane CBD – Ideal for city-based workers looking for a central training option.
Southport – Servicing the Gold Coast area with convenient access to public transport.
Logan – A key location for those working in the rapidly growing Logan construction sector.
Chermside – Perfect for workers in Brisbane’s northern suburbs.
North Lakes – A great option for construction professionals in the Moreton Bay Region.
Sunshine Coast – Serving the coastal and hinterland construction industry.
Ipswich – A convenient choice for workers in the western Brisbane region.
Capalaba – Catering to those in the Redlands and surrounding areas.
When choosing an RTO, ensure they are approved by WorkSafe Queensland and provide a valid Statement of Attainment upon course completion.
What Happens If You Work Without a White Card in QLD?
Working without a White Card in Queensland is illegal.
You can face:
Fines exceeding $3,000 for individuals
Higher penalties for businesses that allow unlicensed workers on-site
Potential worksite bans and job loss
Employers are responsible for ensuring that all workers have a valid White Card before starting on-site duties.
Transferring a White Card from Another State to QLD
Queensland recognises White Cards issued in other Australian states, provided they were obtained through an approved RTO and comply with national training standards.
However, if your White Card was issued before major regulatory changes, you may need to complete a refresher course in QLD.
Booking Your White Card Course in QLD
To ensure you receive a valid and recognised certification, book your training with National White Card Courses.
We are a government-approved RTO. Check course availability in your area and confirm whether you meet the face-to-face training requirement under WorkSafe QLD regulations.
If you’re ready to start your construction career in Queensland, make sure you have the correct training and certification. Book your White Card course today to stay compliant and safe on-site.
Enrol in a QLD White Card Course Near You
National White Card Courses is an accredited Registered Training Organisation (RTO 41072), providing WorkSafe QLD-approved White Card training across the state of Queensland.
Our QLD White Card courses meet all Work Health and Safety (WHS) regulations.
Unlike online White Card courses that aren’t accepted in QLD, we provide face-to-face training that delivers hands-on experience, real-world safety skills, and a legitimate White Card that employers trust.
By choosing National White Card Courses, you’re avoiding the risks of unrecognised training providers and ensuring your White Card is valid.
Author Bio:
Samuel Bohr
CEO, Founder and Trainer at National White Card Courses (NWCC)
With over 15 years of experience in the construction industry, Samuel has worked on major infrastructure and mining projects for top companies like Chevron, Rio Tinto, and BHP. After completing his plumbing apprenticeship, Samuel transitioned to plant operations and large-scale projects, including the WestConnex tunnel in Sydney. Samuel is now focused on teaching White Card courses as an accredited White Card trainer, where he shares his extensive industry experience and expertise.
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- admin@nwcc.edu.au
- Monday to Friday: 8:30 am – 4:30 pm
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