The construction industry in Australia continues to be a major source of employment and economic activity. As of May 2024, the sector employed over 1.37 million people, accounting for nearly 10 per cent of the country’s total workforce (ABS Labour Force data). But here is the catch: we are facing a massive skills gap. Industry reports predict a shortage of up to 300,000 workers by 2027.
For you, this means opportunity to gain new skills this 2026. Whether you are looking for a new construction career or are a small business owner needing to upskill your team, enrolling in short courses in construction is the fastest way to get qualified and onto job sites.
Why Short Courses are the Smart Choice
Time is money, especially in the building and construction industry. Short courses are designed for real-world results that happen fast. We know you want to get working which is why we focus on the specific competency required by industry professionals.
Here is why students and tradespeople choose this path:
- Fast-Track Entry: It is the quickest way to go from “unqualified” to “job-ready” without spending years studying.
- Versatility: The building sector evolves and holding a wide range of tickets makes you an invaluable asset to any crew.
- Employability: A worker with multiple tickets (like EWP and Working at Heights) is more employable than someone with none.
Course Durations and Details: Get Qualified Fast
One of the most common questions we get is “How long does it take?” The good news is that most of our training can be completed in less than a week. We have designed our schedule to get you job-ready without unnecessary downtime.
Here is a look at our most popular short courses and what they cover:
Working at Heights: 1 Day
- What it covers: This is essential for anyone from roofers to electricians who needs to work above ground level.
- Why you need it: Safety is non-negotiable. Most sites will not allow you to climb a ladder or work on a roof without this ticket.
EWP Ticket (Under 11m): 1 Day
- What it covers: Whether it is operating a boom lift or a scissor lift, this ensures you can access heights safely.
- Why you need it: This is crucial for trades like stonemasonry, cabinet making or electrical work where installation often happens at height in difficult-to-reach areas.
Confined Spaces: 1–2 Days
- What it covers: This covers the vital safety protocols and emergency procedures required by law for working in enclosed areas.
- Why you need it: It is a mandatory requirement for those working in tanks, pits, tunnels or sewers where air quality or space is a risk.
Forklift Licence: 2 or 3 Days
- What it covers: You will gain the practical skills to operate a forklift truck safely in a warehouse or site environment.
- Why you need it: This is one of the most versatile qualifications you can get. It opens doors in warehousing, logistics and construction supply.
Excavator Ticket: 3 Days
- What it covers: A hands-on course that teaches you to operate an excavator, construct trenches and move earth efficiently.
- Why you need it: An Excavator Ticket is a ticket to higher pay. Construction projects always need operators who can handle heavy machinery safely.
Dogging Licence: 5 Days
- What it covers: You will learn to apply slinging techniques, select lifting gear and direct crane operators using hand signals and whistles.
- Why you need it: A dogman is the eyes of the crane operator. This is a critical high risk licence that is essential for large-scale commercial construction.
Who Should Study These Courses?
One of the best things about short courses is their versatility. They suit a wide variety of individuals at different stages of their lives.
- School Leavers: If you aren’t sure about the next step, a short course lets you dip your toe into the construction industry. You can get a ticket, start earning and see if the career fits you.
- Tradespeople: Even if you are already qualified in carpentry, floor tiling or wall tiling you often need supplementary tickets. A tiler working on a high-rise needs a hoist ticket or heights training to move materials effectively.
- Business Owners: If you run a small business in building, upskilling your staff ensures you can take on more complex projects and meet workplace regulations without hiring sub-contractors.
Pathways to Further Qualifications
Don’t think of a short course as the end of the road. Often it is just the beginning. Many individuals who complete our short courses go on to pursue a Certificate III or even a Diploma of Building and Construction.
Starting with short courses builds your fundamental skills and knowledge. For example, understanding how to read plans and apply building codes becomes much easier when you have practical experience under your belt.
The Major Training Difference
We know you have choices, but Major Training is different. We are focused on providing high-standard training that gets you the results you need.
- Real Industry Experts: Our trainers are professionals who have been on the tools and know what it takes to succeed on site.
- Flexible Options: Whether you need a specific schedule, funding support or a payment plan we try to make it work for you.
- Real Gear: Our facilities are set up to simulate real workplace environments so you learn on the gear you will actually be using.
- Funding Support: We can help eligible students access government funding and subsidies such as CSQ funding if you are already working in the construction industry.
Ready to Start Your Construction Career?
Construction short courses are a practical and efficient way to enter one of Australia’s fastest-growing industries. Whether your goal is to start work immediately or build towards a trade qualification, short courses give you the skills and certification employers need.
Ready to get started? Browse our construction short courses or speak to a course advisor to find the perfect fit for your career goals.
📞 Call 1300 790 822 for personalised support 👉 View our training schedule here: Major Training Course Schedule
Contact Us
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Do I need experience to do these short courses?
Most short courses like Working at Heights, EWP or Confined Spaces do not require prior industry experience. They are perfect for beginners starting a construction career.
Why should I start with a short course?
Short courses enhance job readiness and are the fastest way to secure entry-level positions like construction assistant or labourer. They make you instantly useful on site.
Can I get funding for these courses?
Yes. Major Training offers funding support and government-subsidised options for eligible students (such as CSQ funding). Ask our team if you qualify when you enquire.
Are these qualifications nationally recognised?
Yes. All our short courses result in a nationally recognised Statement of Attainment. This means your qualification is valid on job sites across Australia.
