Many industries in Australia rely on forklifts to conduct daily operations, and they are crucial for optimal productivity. Businesses such as the warehouses, distribution centres, construction sites, recycling plants and retail stores all utilise forklifts to move heavy materials and stock.
This means that many employees who work within these sectors require a forklift licence so they can safely and legally operate a forklift at their place of work.
It’s no secret that forklifts play a major role in many businesses and industries across Australia. In fact, forklifts are such an essential part of the work environment that having a forklift license is often a key component of job duties. While forklifts are typically used for tasks such as lifting and moving heavy objects, they can also be used for a variety of other purposes, including cleaning up debris and loading and unloading vehicles. With so many businesses and industries relying on forklifts, it’s clear that having a forklift license is an important asset for any worker.
To get a forklift license in Australia, you’ll need to pass an assessment test and have a valid ID. In this blog, we’ll take you through everything you need to know to get your forklift license in Australia.
How To Get Your Forklift License In Australia
If you’re thinking of getting a forklift license in Australia, there are a few things you need to know. To get a forklift license in Australia, you firstly need to attend a forklift course, which usually occurs over two days.
The first day consists of theory and practical learning, and the second day consists of a series of assessments designed to test your knowledge of forklift safety and operations. There are numerous training courses available around Australia, just make sure the course takes place at a Registered Training Organisation (RTO) and there is a WorkSafe Assessor present to conduct training and assessment. After attending both days of the course and passing the assessment test you will be equipped with the documents to apply for your forklift license.
Nationwide Forklift License Requirements In Australia
Although forklift license requirements differ from each state there are national requirements. You must complete your training and assessment at an approved Registered Training Organisation (RTO) with a WorkSafe assessor present. Your application for a High-Risk Work License (HRWL) must be submitted to WorkSafe. WorkSafe is an Australian Government agency responsible for administering the Occupational Safety and Health Act 1984.
In Australia, you must have a national HRWL to operate a forklift.
Forklift License Application Process in Victoria
Obtaining a forklift license is usually a two day process. You must wear PPE (hi-vis and closed in shoes) for both days. Specifically in the state of Victoria, the process is as follows;
Day 1 – Theory & Practical Training
- Theory learning with a highly qualified trainer
- Learn how to calculate loads and interpret load plates to ensure safe lifting and operation
- Gain experience through practical exercises such as; navigating obstacles and lifting and moving loads – supervised by a trainer
Day 2 – Assessment
- Three types of assessments: knowledge assessment, calculations assessment and practical assessment
After successful completion of both days and passing all tests, you will be issued with:
- Notice of Assessment (NOA)
- WorkSafe Victoria L2 Application Form
- Statement of Attainment for the Unit of Competency TLILIC0003 – License To Operate A Forklift Truck
The NOA, L2 Application Form and a valid photo ID must be submitted to a participating Australia Post Office within 60 days. If the 60 days lapses without submission of the application, the application becomes void. After processing, you will receive your High Risk Work License which will be valid for five years.
If you don’t have a photo ID, you can obtain one from an Australia Post Office.
Why Having A Valid Forklift License Is Important
A forklift license is important for anyone who wants to work with or operate a forklift in Australia. Forklift operators need a valid license to ensure they are operating the machines safely and within the regulations set by the Australian Transport Safety Bureau (ATSB). Forklift operators also must be aware of their obligations under the Work Health and Safety Act 2011 (Cth), which includes completing an approved forklift safety training program.
Different Types Of Australian Forklift Licenses
There are two different types of forklift licenses that you will need to have to operate a forklift in Australia. These types of forklift licenses are an LF license and a LO license.
- An Australian LF forklift license (TLILIC2001A LF license) is the more common one, which allows you to operate any forklift, including Jialift 900kg counterbalance forklift, reach trucks and high reach forklifts.
- An Australian LO forklift license (TLILIC2002A LO license) will enable you to only operate a load-shifting order picker forklift, also known as a VNA (very narrow aisle) forklift.
How Long Is A High-Risk Work License Valid?
All High-Risk Work Licenses, including forklift licenses, are valid for five years in Australia. All forklift license holders will receive notification from the issuing government authority as a reminder that they need to renew it. When it comes to renewing your forklift license, you will not need to resit the assessment test.
Which Industries Require A Forklift License?
In Australia, forklift licenses are required for industries such as warehousing, distribution, food processing and manufacturing. Licenses are also required for certain types of construction sites.
Forklift Models That Require A Forklift License To Operate
The three classes of forklifts that require a forklift license to operate are:
- Class I – Lithium Ion Electric forklifts, counterbalance reach forklifts and lead acid forklifts
- Class II – Electric narrow aisle forklifts
- Class III – Manual pallet jacks, lead acid pallet jacks and lithium battery pallet jacks
Forklift Types That Don’t Require A Forklift License To Operate
Jialift also has a range of forklift models that don’t require a forklift license such as; no drive license forklifts, counterbalanced stackers and legless reach walkie stackers.
Benefits Of Having A Forklift License
For many businesses, owning a forklift license is a core component of their production process. Forklifts allow companies to move large loads quickly and easily, boosting efficiency and productivity. In addition, having a forklift license can teach you crucial safety considerations.
Here are some of the benefits of having a forklift license:
Increased Production Efficiency
Forklifts make it easy to move large loads around a production facility. This can boost efficiency and productivity, leading to cost savings for your business.
Improved Safety
Having a forklift license can improve your safety on the job. By understanding how to use a forklift safely, you can avoid accidents that could result in injury or death.
Increased Productivity
A properly trained forklift operator can increase production speed by up to 50%. This means that your company can achieve its goals faster than if you didn’t have a forklift available.
If you’re looking for ways to boost efficiency and productivity at your business, acquiring a forklift license for your staff is an important step.
Forklift License Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is a forklift license?
A forklift license is a mandatory safety qualification for anyone operating or intending to operate a forklift in Australia. Forklift licenses are required for operators of material handling equipment used in the construction, manufacturing or storage of goods.
How do I get a forklift license in Australia?
To get a forklift license in Australia, you must complete training and assessment with a Registered Training Organisation.
How old do you have to be to get your forklift license?
SafeWork Australia and WorkSafe require you to be 18 years old to get a forklift license in Australia.
Is doing a forklift course the same as getting a forklift license?
No, a forklift license is a license that you need to operate a forklift. Whereas, a forklift course is different. It’s an intensive training program that will teach you all the safety and operational basics of using a forklift. After completing the course, you’ll be able to take the assessment test to obtain a forklift license.
What are the requirements for obtaining a forklift license?
To obtain a forklift license, you must be at least 18 years old and able to read and write English. You must also pass a knowledge test that covers the safe operation of forklifts. You must also pass the practical test.
Will my forklift license be recognised if I move to another state?
Yes, all forklift licenses will be valid in any state or territory of Australia (as long as it is still valid and not expired).
Do I need a driver’s license to operate a forklift?
No, you do not need to have a driver’s license as a prerequisite for obtaining a forklift licence, as they are two separate things. If you complete the forklift course and pass all of the required assessments you will be able to obtain your forklift license and be able to legally operate a forklift.
Is there anything I need to do prior to attending the forklift course?
You will be provided a guideline book and an associated assignment to complete at home prior to attending the training course. If you have not completed this assignment, you will be unable to complete the course.
Can I use a translator during the forklift training course if English is not my first language?
No. You must be fluent in English both verbally and written in order to take the training course. The tests must be conducted in English without a translator present.
Contact Jialift For All Your Forklift Purchases Or Hire Enquiries
Our team at Jialift are committed to providing the best warehouse material handling equipment and forklifts to suit all businesses. We are factory-direct, so we can source and provide a wide range of forklifts at affordable prices. For all your forklift hire, used forklifts and new purchases, or questions contact our team today!
