Wodonga TAFE
6 months (public, 3 days per week) or 12-24 months (traineeship)
Gain hands-on training in civil construction plant operations with multiple machinery licenses and workplace safety skills. Perfect for school leavers, career changers, or trainees seeking work-ready qualifications in Australia's fastest-growing construction sector.
You must be at least 17 years of age to undertake this course. No specific prior qualifications are required. Learners should be prepared for practical, hands-on training on active construction sites. You are required to wear enclosed safety boots, long sleeves, and pants. Basic literacy and numeracy skills are beneficial for understanding site plans and calculations.
Stage A: Core Skills for Civil Construction Plant Operations - Operation of major plant equipment including excavators, skid steers, rollers, front-end loaders, and haul trucks; Safe work practices, excavation, and basic leveling; Site communication and instruction following; Real-world problem solving and critical thinking. Stage B: Advanced Civil Construction Operations - Risk management, calculations, measurements, and job estimations; Manual excavation, material spreading and compacting; Leveling skills, drain and dewater site operations; Underground service location and protection; Safe material handling and equipment loading/unloading.
Wodonga TAFE is a registered training organization (RTO 3097) with extensive experience in vocational education. The course provides industry-recognized qualifications and practical training in simulated environments with access to real plant equipment. Strong partnerships with local construction companies including Jarvis and Delahey, Cleaves Earthmoving, and other major contractors ensure curriculum relevance and employment pathways.
Graduates can pursue careers as plant operators in domestic and industrial subdivisions, railways, major infrastructure projects (including inland rail), council roadworks and maintenance, recycling and waste management, electrical infrastructure, forestry, and quarries. Employment opportunities exist with major local companies and contractors throughout the region, with potential for career progression to supervisory or management roles in construction.