If you’re working around heavy machinery or dangerous equipment in Queensland, chances are you already have, or need, a High Risk Work (HRW) licence. But when your licence is due to expire, it’s important to stay ahead of the game.
Whether you’re operating a forklift, managing scaffolding, or using a vehicle loading crane, renewing your licence is key to staying compliant and keeping your job.
What Is a High Risk Work (HRW) Licence?
A High Risk Work Licence is a mandatory requirement in Australia for anyone performing high-risk tasks. It applies to roles involving:
Cranes and hoists
Scaffolding and rigging
Elevated work platforms (EWPs)
Forklift trucks
Pressure equipment
There are over 30 licence classes, each tied to a specific type of high-risk work.
Who Needs One?
You’ll need a HRW licence if your job includes:
Operating a forklift, order picker, or gantry crane
Performing dogging or rigging
Erecting scaffolding (basic, intermediate, or advanced)
Using boom lifts over 11 metres or materials hoists
You must be at least 18 years old and complete training with a Registered Training Organisation (RTO) before applying.
When Does It Expire?
Your HRW licence is valid for five years. A renewal notice is sent 4–6 weeks before the expiry date, but even if you don’t receive it, it’s your responsibility to keep track.
If your licence lapses, you can’t legally perform high-risk work. You’ll need to renew it as soon as possible to avoid penalties or job disruptions.
How to Renew a High Risk Work Licence in QLD
You can renew your HRW licence online via the WorkSafe QLD portal.
What You’ll Need:
Current HRW licence card
Queensland driver’s licence or photo ID
Renewal notice (if received)
Debit or credit card for payment
Renewal Steps:
Check your expiry date
Log into the WorkSafe QLD portal
Enter your licence number or renewal code
Confirm your contact and postal details
Submit your application and payment
Keep the confirmation receipt
Your new licence should arrive within 21 days.
HRW Licence Classes Offered by Major Training
Major Training provides hands-on, practical training to help you meet HRW requirements. Here are the key licence types we deliver:
Cranes and Hoists
Operating a crane requires precision and strict adherence to safety. Our courses cover various capacities to get you site-ready.
- TLILIC0021: Licence to operate a slewing mobile crane (up to 100 tonne)
- TLILIC0023: Licence to operate a slewing mobile crane (up to 60 tonne)
- TLILIC0022: Licence to operate a slewing mobile crane (up to 20 tonne)
- TLILIC0040: Conduct Non-Slewing Crane Operations
- TLILIC0024: Licence to operate a vehicle loading crane (capacity 10 metre tonnes and above)
Scaffolding Work
From basic setups to complex suspended scaffolds, we offer training for every level of experience.
- CPCCLSF2001: Licence to erect, alter and dismantle scaffolding (Basic Level)
- CPCCLSF3001: Licence to erect, alter and dismantle scaffolding (Intermediate Level)
- CPCCLSF4001: Licence to erect, alter and dismantle scaffolding (Advanced Level)
Dogging and Rigging
These are essential skills for moving loads safely on any construction site.
- CPCCLDG3001: Licence to perform dogging
- CPCCLRG3001: Licence to perform rigging (Basic Level)
- CPCCLRG3002: Licence to perform rigging (Intermediate Level)
Elevated Work Platforms (EWP)
- These platforms can be telescoping, hinged, articulated, or a combination of these mechanisms.
Flexible Delivery, Funding & Locations
Train with Major at one of our locations across Queensland:
We also offer onsite training for businesses.
Do You Need to Retrain?
Not if your licence is current and you’re only renewing. However, if it has expired for a long period or you’re adding a new class (e.g., moving from basic to intermediate rigging), you’ll need to complete fresh training with a qualified RTO.
Flexible Delivery & Locations
Train at one of our Queensland sites:
Yatala (Gold Coast)
Morayfield (Caboolture)
Virginia (Brisbane)
Dinmore (Ipswich)
Onsite training available for businesses
Funding & Payment Options
Major Training offers multiple payment and funding solutions, including:
Construction Skills Queensland (CSQ) funding
BERT Training Fund
Study Now, Pay Later plans
Why Licence Renewal Matters
Renewing your HRW licence ensures:
You meet WHS compliance standards
You remain eligible to work on-site
You’re covered by workplace insurance
You avoid potential fines or penalties
Keeping your licence current isn’t just a formality — it’s about protecting yourself, your team, and your reputation.
How Major Training Supports Licence Renewal
Complete Training Before Applying
To get a licence you must first complete relevant training with a Registered Training Organisation (RTO) like Major Training. We deliver practical, real-world learning that ensures you’re ready to perform high risk work confidently.
Funding options include:
- Construction Skills Queensland (CSQ) Funding
- BERT Training Fund
- Study Now, Pay Later flexible payments
Registered Training Organisation (RTO) Standards
Major Training is a trusted RTO meeting industry standards for relevant training and safety compliance. We help you:
- Meet your legal licence application requirements
- Prepare all required documents
- Stay up to date with risk work legislation
Compliance and Safety: Why Renewal Matters
Holding a current HRW licence ensures you:
- Meet QLD’s compliance and safety standards
- Avoid fines or penalties for working unlicensed
- Are covered by workplace insurance and WHS policies
Renewing your licence is not just about ticking a box — it’s about protecting yourself and your crew.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is a High Risk Work Licence?
A High Risk Work Licence (HRW licence) is an official permit issued by the government that allows qualified individuals to legally perform high-risk tasks in Australia. These include operating a forklift truck, vehicle loading crane, materials hoist, or engaging in scaffolding work and rigging work.
When does my high risk work licence expire?
Your licence has a five-year validity period. The licence expiry date is printed on your licence card. A renewal notice will be sent to your postal address around 4–6 weeks before your licence expires.
Can I still work if my licence expires?
No. Once your HRW licence is expired, it becomes illegal to perform high risk work until it is successfully renewed. Working with an expired licence can lead to fines and loss of job opportunities.
How do I renew my high risk work licence online?
You can complete your renewal application through the WorkSafe QLD licence online portal:
- Have your renewal notice, licence card, and identity documents ready
- Complete the online form
- Confirm your contact details and postal address
- Pay the fee using a debit card or credit card
What are the required documents for licence renewal?
To successfully lodge a licence renewal application, you must have:
- Your current HRW licence card
- Queensland driver’s licence or photo identification
- Your renewal notice (if received)
- A valid debit card or credit card for payment
Do I need to complete training again to renew my licence?
Usually not. If you’re only renewing your existing class and it hasn’t lapsed too long, you don’t need to complete training again. However, if your risk work licence has expired significantly or you’re adding a new class (e.g., from basic rigging to intermediate rigging), new relevant training may be required from a Registered Training Organisation.
What happens if I lose my licence?
You can request a replacement licence online via WorkSafe QLD. Ensure your contact details are current. You’ll need to provide identity documents to verify your eligibility.
Can interstate licence holders renew their HRW licence in Queensland?
If you hold an HRW licence from another Australian state, you may need to transfer or reapply through QLD’s licencing system. Requirements vary, and you might be asked for additional photo identification, identity documents, or to make a legal declaration.
What if my renewal notice didn’t arrive?
Check your postal address is correct in the QLD Government system. If you’ve moved recently and didn’t update your contact details, you might not receive your renewal notice. You can still apply using your licence card number.
What high risk work classes can I renew?
You can renew any of the following classes (if you already hold them):
- Order picking forklift truck
- Vehicle loading crane
- Bridge crane, gantry crane, or portainer crane
- Dogging work, basic rigging, intermediate rigging, or advanced rigging
- Basic scaffolding, intermediate scaffolding, or advanced scaffolding
- High pressure systems including standard boiler, turbine operation, reciprocating steam engine
- Specialised areas such as gin poles, shear legs and flying foxes
What safety requirements should I consider when renewing?
Your high risk work licence renewal ensures ongoing compliance with Queensland’s strict safety regulations. By keeping your licence up-to-date, you’re contributing to safer workplaces, proper operation of high risk equipment, and avoiding liability.
Are you looking to get your high-risk licence?
Major Training offers flexible, reliable, and quality training that will meet the exact compliance standards of the industry. Contact Major Training today by filling out the form below, or call 1300 790 822 book in for a high-risk licence.
