One of the first things you’ll probably hear about when you decide on a career working in the Australian construction industry is the white card. A white card is a legal requirement, and it comes up on almost every job ad. Obtaining a white card is often the first step for anyone entering the construction industry. Due to this, one of the most common questions people ask before signing up is simple: how much is a white card?
The short answer is that there’s no single national price. The cost of a white card varies depending on where you live, who you train with, and whether you complete the course online or in person. In today’s article, we’ll break down how much a white card costs across each Australian state and territory, explain white card replacement fees, and answer a few frequently asked questions relating to the qualification.
Do white cards cost money?
Yes, white cards do cost money. While the card itself is issued by a government authority, you usually pay a Registered Training Organisation (RTO) to complete the mandatory construction induction training. The exact price differs depending on factors such as the state or territory you study in and whether the education is provided online or in-person. Either way, you should expect to pay something, as white cards are not free in Australia. The good news is that, compared to many other licences and certifications, the white card is relatively affordable.
How much is a white card NSW?
In New South Wales, the cost of a white card typically ranges from around $110 to $350. This wide price range comes down to how the course is delivered and which provider you choose. If you already hold a white card and need a replacement due to loss or damage, NSW currently charges a replacement fee of $39 to $55 through Service NSW (depending on standard shipping vs. express shipping). NSW is a flexible state for white cards, allowing both online and in-person training options for completion. Express Online Training currently offers the White Card (NSW) Class Online for $190.
How much is a white card QLD?
In Queensland, white card training is typically around $130 to $350. Queensland has stricter rules around online training compared to some other states, which means in-person training is often required. This can influence pricing depending on location and availability. Fortunately, Express Online Training has received approval from QLD WorkSafe to provide the Queensland white card course online. Currently, Express Online Training charges $250 for the White Card (QLD) Class Online.
How much is a white card VIC?
Most people can expect to pay between $50 and $150 for white card training in Victoria. The price will differ depending on the location of the training institute. In Victoria, the white card is only provided via face-to-face learning. A replacement white card in Victoria should be obtained through WorkSafe Victoria. These replacements typically incur a small fee.
How much is a white card WA?
Western Australia has particularly affordable white card courses, with the price of obtaining a WA white card typically costing around $40 to $70. Currently, Express Online Training is an RTO offering the White Card WA Online for $55. As with all states, it’s important to confirm that the provider is an approved RTO and that the course meets WA requirements. Replacement card costs vary but are generally in line with the rest of the country.
How much is a white card SA?
Typically, a white card course in South Australia costs between $100 and $200. Online SA white card courses are rarer than in-person courses, so keep this in mind when shopping around for potential RTOs. Replacement cards in South Australia generally incur a small fee, often similar to other states. While the training cost might feel like an upfront expense, it’s still considered one of the more affordable entry requirements in the construction industry.
How much is a white card TAS?
Tasmania has relatively affordable white card training costs, plus there’s the option of choosing between online or in-person courses. The price of a white card TAS is typically $50 to $100, depending on the provider. Express Online Training currently offers the White Card TAS Online for $55. Replacement fees tend to be modest and comparable to other states.
How much is a white card ACT?
The Australian Capital Territory is a little different from other states and territories. The course itself costs between $50 to $150, depending on the provider, but there’s also an application fee of $46 that must be paid to Access Canberra.
How much is a white card NT?
In the Northern Territory, white card training typically costs between $50 and $200. NT white cards are provided in-person through face-to-face training, and cannot be completed online. Replacement NT white card fees are generally in line with other states and territories and are usually not excessive.
How much is a replacement white card?
If you lose, damage, or misplace your white card, you’ll typically need to apply for a replacement through the issuing authority in the state or territory where it was originally issued. A replacement white card should be relatively affordable. Exact replacement fees vary depending on the state, but usually fall between $20 to $60. It’s important to note that you don’t usually need to redo the training just to replace a lost card, as long as your white card is still valid.
Do white cards expire?
White cards do not have an official expiry date, which is a big advantage. Once you’ve completed the training, your white card will be recognised nationally and doesn’t need regular renewal. However, this comes with a caveat. While white cards don’t have an official expiration date, if you haven’t worked in the construction industry for two or more years, your white card will become invalid. In that case, you will be required to complete the training again to demonstrate up-to-date safety knowledge.
Who needs a white card?
Many different roles are required to hold a valid white card in Australia. This includes:
- Site managers and supervisors
- Labourers
- Tradespeople entering construction zones (including carpenters, plumbers, and electricians)
- Surveyors entering construction zones
- Engineers and architects that supervise construction sites
- Any person involved in work that sees them visiting construction sites
If your role relates to any of the above, it’s worth checking with your employer to see whether you will be required to obtain a white card.
Why choose Express Online Training for your white card course?
Express Online Training is a fully accredited RTO, offering online white card courses for a number of Australian states. This list includes the White Card (NSW) Class Online, White Card (QLD) Class Online, White Card WA Online, and the White Card TAS Online. Our courses are available 24/7 and can be stopped and resumed at any point, allowing you to study at a time that works best for your schedule. They’re also able to be completed on mobile, tablet, laptop, or desktop computer. Need assistance? We have fully qualified and locally-based support available 7 days a week, including until late on weekdays. These white card courses have a short audio assessment and a short video assessment, and we have no hidden costs or nasty surprises. In fact, with Express Online Training, you can start your course now and pay for it later!
Is a white card worth it?
For most people, the answer is yes, a white card is a worthwhile qualification for their employment needs. If you want to work on a construction site in Australia, a white card is a legal requirement. Without holding a valid white card, you won’t be allowed on site, which subsequently means you won’t be able to work. A white card is a valid qualification to many as its cost is relatively small compared to the earning potential it unlocks. If you’re planning to work as an apprentice, tradesperson, labourer, site manager, or in any other position that involves entering a construction site, the white card is often an important element of employment. This qualification is recognised nationwide, so even if you move interstate, you’ll be able to use any white card from an Australian RTO within the country.
White card costs in Australia vary by state, territory, and training provider. The good news is that white cards are relatively affordable. Currently, you should expect to pay under $400 for one. While not free, a white card is one of the most affordable and valuable requirements in the construction industry.
If you’re serious about working on construction sites, the white card is a small upfront investment that can open the door to steady work and long-term opportunities. A few tips include shopping around, choosing an accredited provider, and understanding your state’s requirements, as this can help ensure you get the best value for your money.
