Ever looked up at a tower crane and wondered how the steel frame beneath it came together?
Every beam, hoist, and load line you see on a high-rise site has been planned and installed by qualified riggers. The people who make construction lift safely and precisely.
If you’re aiming for that level of skill, completing an advanced rigging course in Victoria is the final step in a structured pathway that starts with dogging and builds through Basic and Intermediate Rigging.
This guide explains every stage of that rigging training progression — what each licence allows, how long the courses take, and how to apply for your rigging licence in Victoria.
What a rigger does in Victoria
Riggers are responsible for setting up cranes, hoists, and structural steel so that lifting work on a site runs safely. They build towers, move heavy plant, and work closely with doggers and crane operators. In Victoria, anyone who performs this kind of High Risk Work needs the correct WorkSafe licence and nationally recognised training through an RTO such as Construction Training International (RTO 7107).
How the rigging licence system works
Rigging qualifications build on each other. To become a fully qualified rigger, you’ll progress through three classes of High Risk Work licence:
| Licence class | What it covers | Training code | Typical duration* |
| Basic Rigging (RB) | Structural steel, static lines, perimeter safety screens | CPCCLRG3001 | 5 days |
| Intermediate Rigging (RI) | Hoists, cranes, conveyor systems, tilt-up panels | CPCCLRG3002 | 4 days |
| Advanced Rigging (RA) | Self-climbing hoists, gin poles, tower cranes, suspended scaffolds | CPCCLRG4001 | 4 days |
*Durations based on CTI course schedules.
Before you can start Basic Rigging, you must already hold a dogging licence (DG), as doggers learn the load-slinging skills that every rigger needs.
Step 1 – Start with a dogging licence (DG)
Your rigging journey begins here. A dogging course teaches how to select, inspect, and use slings, chains, and lifting gear, plus how to direct a crane operator by hand or radio.
- Duration: 5 days
- Outcome: Nationally recognised Statement of Attainment (CPCCLDG3001)
- Licence: Apply to WorkSafe Victoria for a High Risk Work licence (DG).
Completing this step proves you can move loads safely and communicate clearly — essential before taking on rigging work.
Step 2 – Get your Basic Rigging (RB) ticket
Basic Rigging covers tasks such as structural steel erection, safety nets, and hoist installation. You’ll learn to interpret load charts, inspect rigging gear, and plan lifts that stay within the rated capacity of the equipment.
- Entry requirement: Current dogging licence (DG)
- Duration: 5 days at CTI’s Riddells Creek training yard or onsite for group bookings.
- Assessment: Written knowledge test + practical tasks under WorkSafe standards.
After passing, you can apply for your Basic Rigging licence (RB) with WorkSafe Victoria.
Step 3 – Move on to Intermediate Rigging (RI)
Intermediate Rigging expands your scope. This stage trains you to rig cranes and conveyor systems, place precast concrete panels, and use mechanical load-shifting equipment.
- Entry requirement: Current RB licence.
- Duration: 4 days including assessment.
- Focus: Advanced load calculations and the safe use of powered equipment during rigging operations.
Graduates can supervise larger site lifts and coordinate teams working with mobile and tower cranes.
Step 4 – Complete Advanced Rigging (RA) training
The Advanced Rigging course is the final step toward full qualification. You’ll work with complex systems like self-climbing hoists, guyed derricks, flying foxes, and suspended platforms.
- Entry requirement: Current RI licence.
- Duration: 4 days of theory and hands-on training.
- Outcome: Statement of Attainment (CPCCLRG4001) and eligibility to apply for a WorkSafe RA licence.
Once certified, you can handle specialised lifts on high-rise projects or major infrastructure sites across Victoria.
Tips for planning your rigging training progression
A few practical steps help you move smoothly through the pathway:
- Book early: High Risk Work courses fill quickly. Secure your place on the CTI calendar.
- Keep your logbook updated: Record hours and site tasks as evidence of competence.
- Refresh your knowledge: Review slinging angles, load charts, and hand signals before each upgrade.
- Check WorkSafe Victoria rules: Licence applications must be submitted within 60 days of assessment.
What to do after you’re fully qualified
After completing an advanced rigging course and earning your licence, keep your skills current by:
- Renewing your WorkSafe licence every five years.
- Completing Verification of Competency (VOC) assessments when changing employers or equipment.
- Considering complementary training such as crane operation (TLILIC units) or EWP licences to broaden your career options.
A qualified RA rigger can supervise lifting teams, work on complex construction sites, and often progress into site supervision or project management roles.
View CTI’s current Rigging course calendar or enquire now about group sessions at your worksite.
