Last reviewed June 2026 by the White Card Practice AU editorial team.
About this topic
Some construction tasks are so dangerous they require a separate High Risk Work (HRW) licence on top of your White Card. A very common misconception, and a favourite test question, is thinking the White Card lets you do these jobs. It does not. This page explains the difference.
What the White Card does and doesn't cover
The White Card (CPCWHS1001) is a general construction induction. It allows you to be on a construction site and shows you understand basic safety. It is not a licence to operate plant or carry out specialised high-risk tasks, those need their own HRW licence.
Common high risk work licence classes
High risk work licences are issued for specific activities, including:
- Scaffolding (basic, intermediate, advanced)
- Dogging and rigging
- Operating cranes and hoists
- Operating a forklift
- Operating a boom-type elevating work platform (11 metres or more)
- Working with certain pressure equipment
How to get a high risk work licence
You complete training and assessment with a registered training organisation for the specific class of work, then apply to your state or territory WHS regulator (such as SafeWork NSW or WorkSafe) for the licence. You generally must be at least 18 years old. The licence is recognised across Australia.
Key facts to remember
- A White Card is a general induction, not a high risk work licence.
- HRW licences cover scaffolding, dogging, rigging, cranes, forklifts and more.
- You must usually be at least 18 to hold a HRW licence.
- HRW licences are issued by the state or territory WHS regulator.
- Operating plant like a forklift or crane without the right licence is illegal.
Frequently asked questions
Does a White Card let me operate a forklift?
No. Operating a forklift requires a separate High Risk Work licence. A White Card only allows you to be on a construction site as a general induction.
What is high risk work?
Specific high-danger activities, such as scaffolding, rigging, dogging, operating cranes, forklifts or certain elevating work platforms, that require a dedicated HRW licence.
How do I get a High Risk Work licence?
Complete training and assessment for the specific class with a registered training organisation, then apply to your state or territory WHS regulator. You generally must be at least 18.
Which jobs need a High Risk Work licence?
Tasks such as scaffolding, dogging and rigging, operating cranes and hoists, driving a forklift, and operating boom-type elevating work platforms of 11 metres or more.
Sample exam questions
Try these example questions, then practise the full set with our free quiz.
Q. Does a White Card let you operate a forklift?
- A) Yes
- B) No — you need a separate High Risk Work licence
- C) Sometimes
- D) Yes, for under 10 minutes
Answer: B. A White Card is a general induction; operating a forklift needs a High Risk Work licence.
Q. Which of these requires a High Risk Work licence?
- A) Sweeping the site
- B) Operating a crane
- C) Carrying tools
- D) Reading safety signs
Answer: B. Operating cranes, forklifts, scaffolding, rigging and dogging all require HRW licences.
Q. Who issues High Risk Work licences?
- A) Your employer
- B) The state or territory WHS regulator
- C) The RTO
- D) The local council
Answer: B. HRW licences are issued by the state/territory regulator (e.g. SafeWork NSW).
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