How to become a general labourer in Australia  

What skills do I need to become a general labourer?

Because manual labour is usually involved in some way. Some general requirements you will need to meet before applying include: 

What is a general labourer?

A general labourer or unskilled labourer does not need specific skills or higher education to work in construction, as on-the-job training is usually provided. Being a general labourer often involves manual labour or tasks that require physical strength and perseverance rather than technical knowledge. These are the labourers commonly associated with the term ‘Tradies’.  

What is it like to be a general labourer?

General labourers form the majority of the workforce on a construction site. They complete the more general tasks and assist skilled labourers — often following the direction of skilled labourers and supervisors.  

Task and duties

These are some of the tasks you can expect to do as a general labourer: 

• Loading and unloading materials; 
• Setting up scaffolding on the worksites; 
• Cleaning your tools and machinery; 
• Preparing sites for construction; 
• Digging trenches; 
• Mixing cement and asphalt. 

What skills do I need to become a general labourer?

Because manual labour is usually involved in some way. Some general requirements you will need to meet before applying include: 

• Being physically strong (such as being able to lift at least 10kg); 
• Be willing to conduct work outdoors; 
• Be willing to do shift work; 
• Work as a part of a team. 

What do I need to become a general labourer?

For an entry-level construction or general labouring role, the certification you will need before starting a job as a labourer would be a ‘white card’. 

What is the white card?

The white card ensures that all construction workers are familiar with the safety equipment, as well as health and security policies on a construction site — it is an essential card for working in construction in Australia, and is recognised throughout the country. 

How to get a white card? 

To get a white card, you can complete a course either online or in the classroom from an approved Registered Training Organisation. This can take several hours. If you choose to do the course in class, you will need a full day. The course can cost between $30 and $200 depending on the organisation.  

Note that before you apply to get a ‘white card’ you will need to create an USI (Unique Student Identifier). The process is free and will only take you 5–10 minutes. To apply, simply go to the specialised USI site of the Australian government.  

Some other licenses/permits/tickets you may need depending on the job, may include but are not limited to: 

• Driver’s licence; 
• Forklift licence; 
• Scaffolding permit; 
• Traffic Controller licence; 
• Materials platform hoist licence; 
• Ability to pass a pre-employment drug and alcohol test. 

How to get a job as a general labourer in Melbourne or Victoria? 

EWS Recruitment always has work available in Melbourne and greater Victoria. Talk to one of our recruitment specialist by registering here, or simply give us a call on 03 9354 0466 or email. 

Enjoying our blogs?