EWP licences: What they are and why they matter

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Category
Safety
READ TIME
3 minutes
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In Australia’s rigorous construction and logistics industries, safety starts with having the right training and licences. From Melbourne to Adelaide, worksites rely on strict Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) standards to protect both workers and the community.

One of the most important requirements is an EWP licence. But what exactly does that involve, and why does it matter? Here’s a clear look at what an EWP licence is, the different types available, and why All Star is the smart choice for your training.

 

What is an EWP licence?

First things first: EWP stands for Elevated Work Platform. The machines that fall into the EWP category include boom and scissor lifts, which give temporary access to hard-to-reach areas, usually at height. An EWP licence is the certification that allows you to legally and safely operate these machines.

As with motor vehicles, there are different types of EWP licences. At All Star, we provide training in Victoria and South Australia for the following:

  • EWPA Yellow Card
  • WorkSafe WP Licence

Forklifts and telehandlers, though similar, fall under the category of Material Handling Equipment (MHE). To operate them, you’ll need: 

  • Telehandler Gold Card
  • Forklift Licence

 

Compliance is key: Why the correct licence matters

Why is an MHE or EWP licence so important? For the same reason you need a car licence: safety. Operating heavy machinery comes with real risks. Not just for the operator but for everyone on site. While a licence can’t eliminate accidents entirely, it proves you have the skills and training to handle the equipment correctly and responsibly.

It’s also the law. In both Victoria and South Australia, operating without the right licence can lead to serious penalties, project delays, and even liability issues for employers. The safest and smartest approach is simple: get the right accreditation and stay compliant.

 

Training with All Star: The different licences explained  

Getting the right MHE or EWP licence doesn’t just keep you compliant. It gives you the confidence to take on new roles without the risk of delays or safety issues. At our Melbourne, Geelong, and Adelaide branches, All Star delivers nationally recognised training for the following licences:

 

EWPA Yellow Card

The Yellow Card, issued by the Elevated Work Platform Association of Australia (EWPA), certifies that you have the skills to operate Mobile Elevating Work Platforms such as scissor lifts, trailer lifts, and boom lifts under 11m.

Each machine type has its own training module, and at All Star, you can choose a single module or complete multiple modules depending on your work requirements.

 

WorkSafe/SafeWork WP Licence

If your job requires you to operate a boom lift over 11m, you need a WP Licence.

  • In Victoria, this is issued by WorkSafe.
  • In South Australia, it’s issued by SafeWork SA.

While the knowledge and skills gained in this training are similar to those gained in Yellow Card training, there’s an added focus on the high-risk factors involved with working at such heights.

 

Telehandler Gold Card

To operate a telehandler safely and legally, you need a Telehandler Gold Card. Training is divided into four modules, each covering a different attachment: Fork, Crane Jib, Earthmoving Bucket, and Other.

Just like Yellow Card training, you can choose the modules that best suit the work you’ll be doing.

 

Forklift Licence

A forklift licence is classed as a high-risk work (HRW) licence. With this qualification, you’ll be able to operate a forklift truck fitted with a mast and elevating load carriage.

Note: This training applies to a forklift truck (LF), not an order-picking forklift truck (LO)

 

Why choose All Star for your EWP training needs?

No one delivers MHE and EWP licence training quite like All Star. With over 30 years of industry experience, we offer comprehensive, nationally recognised courses across Victoria and South Australia.

Our trainers combine practical know-how with flexible learning styles, so whether you prefer hands-on training or theory-first, you’ll get the support you need to succeed. We also keep our fleet and course content up to date with the latest industry standards, so your training is always relevant.

Ready to take the next step? Book your EWP training with All Star today or chat with our friendly team. Together, we’ll get your career moving confidently and compliantly.