How to get a concreting licence – requirements, qualifications

Concreting offers a hands-on career where you can see the results of your hard work come to life. Entering the concreting industry is less complicated than you might think, with numerous avenues for you to explore and master. This guide offers a breakdown of how to get started in various regions across Australia, ensuring you’re well-prepared to make your mark as a licenced concreter.

How to become a concreter

There are no nationwide formal qualifications to becoming a licenced concreter. However, completing a Certificate III in concreting, general construction or formwork is a popular choice among aspiring concreters.

An apprenticeship is also a fantastic avenue to develop the skills and expertise needed in the concreting industry. You can choose to engage with a construction company or go formal with programs from recognised training organisations. Whichever road you take, you stand to benefit immensely, especially from the networking and job opportunities that come with accreditations offered by some associations.

Once your training or education is complete, it’s time to apply for your concreting license. Now, this process can slightly differ based on your state or territory. Some offer specific licenses for concreting, while others encompass it under the broader category of building and construction.

How to get a concreting licence in Victoria

To secure your concreting licence in Victoria, you have two primary routes for qualification. Firstly, consider pursuing a Certificate III in Formwork/Falsework (CPC31511). Or if you’re leaning towards real-world experience, an apprenticeship under the guidance of a licensed concreter or builder is an excellent alternative.

Upon securing the necessary qualifications or experience, the next step is to register and apply for your concreting licence with the Victorian Building Authority. The details and application processes are available on the VBA website.

How to get a concreting licence in Queensland

In order to get your concreting licence in Queensland, applicants will have to have one of these qualifications:

1. Certificate III in Concreting CPC30313 or equivalent
2. A certificate recognizing you as a qualified concreter
3. A statement confirming completion of necessary units of competency from a recognized authority

Next, begin your application process by visiting the QBCC website or their offices for the necessary application forms and checklists. Choose from one of the three licence classes, depending on your job role:

1. Contractor Licence: Enables concreters to advertise their services and manage contracts and a team of workers.
2. Nominee Supervisor Licence: Required for professionals working within a company, to oversee concreting tasks.
3. Site Supervisor Licence: Necessary for individuals working for contractors, to efficiently manage project sites.

How to get a concreting licence in New South Wales

In New South Wales, concreters and concrete pump operators working on construction and building sites require concreting permits if they’re working on projects valued at $1,000 or more. You will need to register if your job includes tasks like:

• Concrete laying or placement
• Erecting falsework/formwork
• Resurfacing concrete
• Conducting exposed aggregate work
• Undertaking concrete stencilling
• Building concrete retaining walls
• Executing concrete repairs
• Engaging in pebblecreting or related projects
• Preparing excavation sites for general concreting

However, there are exclusions. You don’t need a licence for constructing concrete retaining walls (with necessary structural landscaping approval) and certain excavations.

Applicants must comply with the guidelines by the NSW Department of Fair Trading, including verification of citizenship status and working rights.

You’ll also be required to have one of the following:

• CPC30320 (current) Certificate III in Concreting, or
• Certificate III in Formwork/Falsework (CPC31511/CP031508) or
• Certificate III in Concreting (CPC30318/CPC30311/CPC30313)
• Certificate III in Formwork/Falsework or Certificate III in Concreting (BCG30303)
• Certificate III in Concreting (CPC30308 or CPC31508)
• Certificate III in Construction Carpentry (TAFE course 4428)
• Certificate III in Construction Carpentry, Trade TAFE course #8044 (Qualification 90203)
• Certificate III in Construction Carpentry, Trade TAFE course #7906 (Qualification 11770)

To kickstart your application process:

1. Obtain the necessary forms from a Government Access Centre, the official website, or Service NSW.
2. Fulfill the criteria mentioned in the mandatory checklist.
3. Submit your application and supporting documents at the nearest Service NSW or Government Access Centre.

How to get a concreting licence in South Australia

In South Australia, the Consumer and Business Services (CBS) is the governing body responsible for the licensing and registration of concreting professionals. Tradespeople in the building and construction industry have to have a valid building supervisor or building contractor licence, which determines the kind of tasks they are qualified to perform, such as concreting, steelfixing or paving concrete floors.

To become a licenced concreter in South Australia, you’ll have to secure a Certificate III in Concreting CPC30313 from an accredited training organization. Then, you’ll have a few pathways available for you to begin your application process:

• Opt for the online method: Fill in your application form online, followed by printing, signing, and submitting it.
• Seek assistance from CBS: Get in touch with the CBS office to enlist the help of a consultant during your application process.
• Make a personal visit: Drop by the Adelaide CBS customer service centre to apply in person.

How to get a concreting licence in Western Australia

According to the Builder’s Registration Act of 2011, only builders with a building permit can engage in construction activities amounting to $20,000 or more. The same building licence applies for concreting works as well.

To be a licenced concreter in Western Australia, you’ll need to possess a national qualification, such as a Certificate III in Concreting CPC30313. Concreters have two primary licences to choose from:

1. Building practitioner licence

Allows individuals to undertake building projects or function as a nominated building supervisor.

2. Building contractor licence

Allows individuals to forge contracts, nominate supervisors, and bring subcontractors onboard. This licence is further divided into three sub-categories:

• Company or body corporate
• Individual
• Partnership

Here’s your guide to applying for the respective licences:

1. Building Practitioner Licence

• Obtain and complete the necessary application forms relevant to your chosen pathway.
• Attach the mandatory supporting documents and information.
• Proceed to pay the designated licence fees.

2. For Building Contractor Licence

• Fill in the application form specific to the category you’re applying for: Partnership, Company/Body Corporate, or Individual.
• Submit the relevant supporting documents and information.
• Pay the application and registration fees.

How to get a concreting licence in Tasmania

In Tasmania, the Department of Justice is in charge of issuing concreting licenses and accreditation. To get accredited, you’ll need to showcase your capabilities and qualifications in line with the regional construction standards.

Concreters looking to ply their trade in Tasmania aren’t required to hold formal qualifications or certifications. However, you can improve your chances of approval by including the following in your application:

• Membership in trade associations like the Concrete Institute of Australia.
• Proven experience working with accredited builders.
• Positive referrals from previous customers.

To apply for your concreting licence, you’ll need to prepare the following documents:

• Completed Building Practitioner Application form
• Curriculum Vitae
• Statement of Experience
• A copy of existing qualifications
• Two references
• Insurance
• Application and licence fee

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Stepping into the world of concreting is not just about mixing and pouring. It’s about creating, crafting, and leaving your imprint, one solid foundation at a time. Whether you’re setting your sights on the sandy shores of Queensland or the bustling streets of Victoria, every state has its unique path to help you lay strong foundations for success.

As you shape your career across the diverse regions of Australia, let BizCover be your shield against unexpected challenges. Get multiple quotes effortlessly for Public Liability Insurance, Personal Accident & Illness Insurance or insurance for concreters, with the BizCover online platform. Take the stress out of insurance and concentrate on sculpting your rewarding new career in concrete.