It is against the law to operate an aerial lift without a licence. Operating a machine at height carries many risks, so if you’re wanting to operate a boom lift, you need to complete the necessary training and hold a valid licence. Training and a licence or certification will undoubtedly reduce hazards and prevent accidents which can also reduce equipment costs, damage repairs, and improve efficiency.
Boom Lift Operator Training Program Necessary for Elevated Work Platform Licence
The Elevating Work Platform Association of Australia (EWPA) offer an Operator Training Program in every Australian state that can help you fulfil the requirements of becoming a qualified operator of a boom lift. This program is also known as the Yellow Card Training Program and is in partnership with industry to help you comply with the health and safety regulations of a job site. That means that you can get your yellow card in any state, and it is valid anywhere in Australia for any boom lift under 11 metres. The training is one full day and costs approximately $300, and following completion of this course, you will receive your Yellow Card Licence. These licences ensure that the holder is trained in the safe operation of a mobile elevating work platform (MEWPs).
If you are looking to operate a boom lift, you don't necessarily have to receive training through EWPA. Instead, you can undergo in-house training at your workplace. However, this can only be delivered by a qualified trainer who meets the Australian Standard 2550.10, and successful completion of the training must be marked by a license or certificate of completion.
A High Risk Work Licence is Required for Boom Lifts over 11 metres
If you are operating a boom lift over 11 metres, you must have a High Risk Work Licence (WP Class) that can be used Australia-wide (prices will vary in each state). If you are operating boom lifts under and over 11 meters, this means you will require both a High Risk Work License and a Yellow Card.
You can only receive a High Risk Work Licence following completion of both theoretical and practical training through a registered training organisation (RTO) and receive an assessment summary (AS1), a statement of attainment and be over the age of 18. The application can be completed online, or you can receive the documents from your RTO trainer. Keep in mind that your application for a High Risk Work Licence must be submitted no more than 60 days following completion of your theoretical and practical training, and like the Yellow Card, the High Risk Licence also needs to be renewed every 5 years.
Prices for a High-Risk Work Card:
Queensland
- Cost for new licence: $98.80
- Cost to renew a licence: $87.85
For more details, check out the Queensland Government's Workplace Health and Safety Electrical Safety Office Workers' Compensation Regulator website.
New South Wales
- Cost for a new licence: $75.00
- Cost to renew a licence: $69.00
For more details, visit the New South Wales Government's SafeWork website.
Western Australia
- Cost for a new licence: $100.00
- Cost to renew a licence: $53.00
For more details, visit the Government of Western Australia's Department of Mines, Industry Regulation and Safety website.
South Australia
- Cost for a new licence: $83.50
- Cost to renew a licence: $45.25
For more details, check out the South Australian Government website.
Northern Territory
- Cost for a new licence: $76.00
- Cost to renew a licence: $63.00
For more details, check out the Northern Territory Government's WorkSafe website.
Victoria
- Cost for a new licence: $66.60
- Cost to renew a licence: $50.35
For more details, check out the Victorian Government's WorkSafe website.
Tasmania
- Cost for a new licence: $71.28
- Cost to renew a licence: $58.32
For more details, visit the Tasmanian Government's WorkSafe website.
Australian Capital Territory
- Cost for a new licence: $100.00
- Cost to renew a licence: $100.00
For more details, visit the Australian Capital Territory Government's website.
*prices are subject to changes at any time
Summary
In Australia, it is illegal to operate a boom lift without a licence. Training and proof of successful completion of this training is required for operation. Elevating Work Platform Association of Australia (EWPA) offer a one-day Operator Training Program priced at approximately $300.00 to equip new operators with the training to conduct work on a boom lift safely and in compliance with industry standards. Any machine over 11 metres, however, will require a High Risk Work Licence (WP Class), which is received following the completion of theoretical and practical training through a registered training organisation (RTO). Read on for more details.