What is a Forklift Licence Course in Melbourne?
A forklift licence course in Melbourne provides the training, assessment and certification required to operate a forklift legally and safely. These courses align with the national unit of competency TLILIC0003 – Licence to operate a forklift truck and are recognised across Victoria’s logistics hubs, including Dandenong, Truganina and Laverton North. For details on the unit, see the official descriptor on training.gov.au, and for licensing rules see WorkSafe Victoria’s High Risk Work licences.
- Training covers both theory and hands-on practical components. Many providers schedule around 8 hours of theory and up to 16 hours of supervised practical exercises, followed by formal assessment by a WorkSafe-approved assessor.
- Courses are delivered by Registered Training Organisations (RTOs) approved to assess High Risk Work (HRW) licences in Victoria.
- On successful completion, you receive a Statement of Attainment (often referred to as a forklift “ticket”), which you use to apply for your HRW licence. This qualification supports employment across manufacturing (about 32% of operators), warehousing (around 41%) and construction (approximately 18%).
Why Take a Forklift Licence Course in Melbourne?
Completing a forklift licence course improves your employability, helps you meet legal requirements, and supports safer workplaces. Melbourne’s growing logistics and e‑commerce sectors consistently create demand for licensed operators, and certified workers often command higher pay.
- Forklift operators commonly earn an average of $60,000–$75,000 per year in Melbourne, depending on experience, shift loadings and site allowances (see benchmarks on SEEK Career Advice).
- Major employers such as Linfox, Toll Group and Amazon typically prefer (or require) current HRW licences for compliance and safety. Check employer expectations on their careers pages, for example Linfox Careers.
- Courses are widely available at accessible price points, with some providers offering payment plans from around $50 per week.
What Are the Requirements for a Forklift Licence in Melbourne?
To obtain a forklift licence (HRW class LF or LO) in Melbourne, you must meet Victorian and national licensing requirements. These sit within the national High Risk Work Licence framework administered in Victoria by WorkSafe. See the overview at Safe Work Australia and state-specific guidance via WorkSafe Victoria.
- Be at least 18 years of age and present valid photo identification.
- Be medically fit to perform the work (most applicants complete a basic health declaration; some employers may require a medical).
- Complete a recognised forklift training course with an RTO that has WorkSafe accreditation and pass the theory and practical assessments.
- Demonstrate sufficient English language, literacy and numeracy to follow safety instructions and complete assessments (generally around Year 8 reading level).
How Much Does a Forklift Licence Course in Melbourne Cost?
Course fees typically range from $400 to $800 in Melbourne. Pricing depends on location, course duration, weekday vs weekend delivery, class size and whether assessment or resit fees are included. Western suburbs often run slightly cheaper than CBD options.
| Course Type | Cost | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Basic Forklift Licence Course | $400 – $600 | 1–2 days |
| Advanced/Refresher Skills Course | $600 – $800 | 2–3 days |
| Weekend Course | $450 – $650 | Two weekends |
Where Can You Take Forklift Training in Melbourne?
Forklift training is available through a range of accredited RTOs across Melbourne, with flexible schedules and multiple locations. You can confirm approved providers via WorkSafe Victoria’s list of assessors and RTOs: Find a licence assessor.
- Popular options include Kangan Institute (Docklands), Melbourne Polytechnic (Preston) and All States Training Services (multiple locations).
- Many schools offer evening and weekend classes, with online theory components supported by in‑person practical training and assessment.
- Some learners may be eligible for subsidised training through programs such as Victoria’s Skills First initiative. Check funding eligibility via the Department of Education: Skills First.
- On-site group training can often be arranged for larger workplaces (e.g., groups of five or more) at major logistics facilities.
Melbourne Forklift Licence Renewal Process
Victorian HRW forklift licences are valid for five years and must be renewed with WorkSafe Victoria before the expiry date. The standard renewal process is completed online and involves paying the renewal fee. See the current steps and fees at Renew a High Risk Work licence.
- Many employers recommend periodic refresher training (often around four hours) to maintain competency.
- If your licence has expired beyond the allowable period or your skills need re-verification, you may need to undertake reassessment.
- Pay the applicable WorkSafe Victoria renewal fee at the time of renewal (fees are subject to change).
FAQs about Forklift Licence Course in Melbourne
1. How long does it take to complete a forklift licence course in Melbourne?
Most courses run over 1–2 days, depending on your experience and the training provider. Some centres offer accelerated options for experienced operators, while new entrants may benefit from longer sessions or extra practice time.
2. Can I get a forklift ticket without previous experience?
Yes. No prior forklift experience is required to enrol. Quality providers support first-time learners with foundational theory, supervised practice and clear assessment guidance.
3. What is the difference between a forklift licence and a forklift ticket in Melbourne?
The training provider issues a Statement of Attainment (often called a “ticket”) when you pass the course. You then use that evidence to apply for a WorkSafe-issued High Risk Work licence (class LF or LO), which is the legal authority to operate. Both are part of the process, but the HRW licence is the legal requirement.
4. Are there specific courses for different types of forklifts?
Yes. The LF licence covers most counterbalance and reach forklifts. The LO licence is required for order-picking (turret) trucks where the operator is raised with the load. Ensure you enrol in the correct class for your job tasks.
5. How can I find the best forklift licence training in Melbourne?
Compare providers on accreditation, trainer experience, course duration, class size, student reviews and included assessment fees. You can also verify approved assessors via WorkSafe Victoria’s directory: Find a licence assessor.
6. What suburbs have the most forklift job opportunities?
Key employment areas include Dandenong South (manufacturing), Truganina and Laverton North (large logistics hubs), and Port Melbourne (freight and shipping).
7. Can I use my interstate licence in Melbourne?
Yes. HRW licences are nationally recognised, so an interstate HRW licence is valid in Victoria. Keep your contact details current with the issuing regulator and review mutual recognition guidance here: Safe Work Australia – HRW licences.
Further Reading
- WorkSafe Victoria – Licences and Registrations
- Training.gov.au – TLILIC0003 Licence to operate a forklift truck
- Skills First – Victorian Government training subsidies
- Training Melbourne – Forklift Training Courses
- SEEK Career Advice – Forklift Driver (salary benchmarks)
The forklift licence course in Melbourne covers both theoretical and practical competencies, ensuring graduates are ready to work safely and efficiently. If you’re based further west, comprehensive forklift training in Geelong is also available to help you build the skills and credentials needed for a successful career in materials handling.
