How to get your structural landscaping trade licence in Australia

If you want to take advantage of this growth, you’ll need to obtain a structural landscaping trades licence. Obtaining a licence isn’t as complicated…

Have you thought about using your skills to work as a structural landscaper? Structural is a career that offers a ton of variety, from structural landscaping and building to creating beautiful outdoor spaces with a range of materials. It’s no wonder the structural landscaping industry has grown significantly throughout Australia over the last decade.

If you want to take advantage of this growth, you’ll need to obtain a structural landscaping trades licence. Obtaining a licence isn't as complicated as you think, especially if you already have some industry experience.

What is a structural landscaping licence?

A structural landscaping licence is issued by your state or territory’s relevant building authority and confirms that you have the required knowledge and skills to work safely as a structural landscaper in various residential or commercial areas. This might include designing gardens, building pergolas and decks, landscaping involves building structural elements in residential, commercial and industrial gardens. It includes hardscapes such as paving, retaining walls and structural features such as entranceways and water features.

The Benefits of Having a Structural Landscaping Licence

Having a structural landscaping licence not only allows you to practise structural landscaping professionally and legally but also provides peace of mind for customers that they are making an informed choice when selecting their structural landscaper. Customers can be confident that all works will be completed according to industry standards, while practitioners benefit from improved job security and legal protection should any disputes arise.

With a trades licence, you also have more career options. You can choose to work for an established structural landscaping business or set up your own.

How to Get Your Structural Landscaping Licence

Each state in Australia has specific requirements regarding the qualifications necessary to practise your trade. In most cases, you’ll need a nationally recognised qualification from a registered training organisation (RTO) or an equivalent qualification.

Nationally recognised qualifications for the structural landscaping licence could include:

How to get a licence once you're certified

Once you’ve received your nationally recognised qualification, you'll need to apply for a structural landscaping licence from the building authority in your state. The application process varies between states, but generally requires evidence of your qualifications and overall experience as well as a signed agreement with the relevant governing body or regulator.

Find out more about how to get your licence and the specific requirements for each Australian state and territory.

FAQ'S

Can I get certified in landscaping through Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)?

For those who are highly experienced but do not have the above qualifications, there are alternative paths to obtaining your structural landscaping licence. One option is to complete a structural landscaping apprenticeship under a licensed building contractor. Another option is to obtain your qualification through RPL.

What is RPL?

RPL an alternative method of obtaining your structural landscaping licence that takes into account your existing skills and experience. This process is ideal for individuals who are already working in the landscaping industry and want to fast-track their certification process. RPL saves time, effort, and money by eliminating the need to complete a full qualification program.

How do I start the RPL process?

Skills Certified Australia can help you with the RPL process and guide you through the application process. With their experience and expertise in the industry, they can help you to quickly and easily obtain your structural landscaping licence.

How do I know if I'm qualified for RPL?

To get certified through RPL, you'll need to have industry experience as a landscaper. This experience must include structural landscaping work such as constructing retaining walls, paving and structural features. You'll also need to provide evidence of your practical and theoretical knowledge, as well as evidence that you have been working in the structural landscaping industry over a minimum period of two years to be eligible for RPL certification.

Want to know if you’re suitable to fast track your landscaping career through RPL? Take our 60 second skills test and we'll get back to you immediately with your results.