Accreditations you need to work in Australia: A simple guide for migrants

If you’re coming to Australia to study and work, one of the first things you’ll notice is that the job market is highly regulated.

In many industries, having the right accreditations, licenses, or certificates is not optional. They are often what determines whether you get called for an interview or actually get hired.

When I first arrived, I didn’t fully understand how important these accreditations were. Over time, I realised that having them from the beginning can open doors much faster, especially if you’re a student and new to Australia.

In this guide, I explain how the accreditation system works in Australia, why it’s so important to take it seriously, and which jobs require which certificates, in a simple and clear way.

Why are accreditations so important in Australia?

Industries in Australia are heavily regulated.

To work in certain jobs, you must demonstrate that:

• You can do the job safely and correctly

• You understand the risks and responsibilities of the role

• You have no criminal record (for sensitive jobs)

• You are a trustworthy person to work with alcohol, food, children, or machinery

These rules are not negotiable, and employers can face fines if they hire someone without the required accreditations.

How does the accreditation system work in Australia?

This is the most important information you need to know:

• Some accreditations are mandatory by law

• Requirements can vary by state

• Having the accreditation before applying makes you more employable

• Employers generally prefer someone who already has it, rather than someone who is “about to get it”

• Most accreditations cost money, but you usually recover that investment quickly once you start working

• Some courses are online, others are in person

• Duration usually ranges between 3 and 10 hours or a full day

Think of accreditations as an investment, not an expense.

Common accreditations and the jobs that require them

Below are the most common certifications required by both migrants and locals to work in Australia.

RSA – Responsible Service of Alcohol

What is it?

RSA is a mandatory certification that allows you to legally serve alcohol in Australia.

Who needs it?

• Bartenders

• Waiters / waitresses

• Bar staff

• Anyone working in restaurants, pubs, or events where alcohol is served

Why is it required?

Serving alcohol comes with legal responsibilities. The course teaches you how to:

• Serve alcohol responsibly

• Identify intoxication

• Refuse service when required by law

How do you get it?

By completing a short course and passing an assessment. It can be done online or in person, depending on the state.

It’s always better to have it.

Food Handler / Food Safety Certificate

What is it?

An accreditation that allows you to legally handle food.

Who needs it?

• Kitchen staff

• Cooks and chefs

• In some cases, waiters / waitresses

• Cafés, restaurants, and catering services

How do you get it?

By completing a short food safety course. Some employers require it before hiring.

RCG / RSG – Responsible Conduct of Gambling

What is it?

A certification required to work in venues with gambling activities.

Who needs it?

• Casinos

• Pubs with poker machines

• Betting venues

My experience

Personally, I’ve never worked in this industry and don’t know many migrants who have, but it’s mandatory if you want to work in these environments.

White Card – Construction Industry Induction

What is it?

A mandatory accreditation to work in construction in Australia.

Who needs it?

• Construction workers

• Assistants

• Labourers

• Anyone entering a construction site

What do you learn in the course?

• Industry risks

• Safety regulations

• Emergency procedures

• Workplace health and safety rules

• Industry responsibilities

How do you get it?

By completing a one-day course, either online or in person (depending on the state).

International students can get a White Card.

Additional requirements for construction jobs

Besides the White Card, you may also need:

• TFN or ABN

• Personal protective equipment (boots, gloves, helmet, safety glasses, high-visibility vest). Kmart is a common place to buy these items

• Driver’s license (in some cases)

• Clean drug and alcohol test

• Ability to lift heavy objects

National Police Check

What is it?

A certificate that proves you have no criminal record in Australia.

Who needs it?

People working in:

• Childcare

• Aged care

• Cleaning in private homes

• Some hospitality and security roles

Working With Children Check (WWCC)

What is it?

An accreditation that confirms you are suitable to work with children.

Who needs it?

• Au pairs

• Childcare workers

• Teachers

• Tutors

• Health professionals

• Volunteers working with children

Important

This accreditation is required even for volunteer work. In some cases, volunteer programs cover the cost, but not always.

How do you apply?

Usually through Australia Post.

First Aid Certificate

What is it?

A course that prepares you to respond to emergencies.

Who needs it?

• Childcare

• Aged care

• Construction

• Cleaning

• Some hospitality roles

Driver’s License

Why is it important?

Some jobs require you to:

• Pick up children from school

• Travel between different work locations

• Work early mornings or late nights

Even when it’s not mandatory, having an Australian driver’s license significantly increases your job opportunities.

Other common courses and licenses

Barista Course

Not a legal accreditation, but a practical training that helps you get café jobs more easily.

Forklift License

Required for warehouse and logistics jobs.

Traffic Controller Ticket

Needed for traffic management and roadwork jobs.

Final recommendations for migrants

• You don’t need to get all accreditations at once

• Choose certifications based on the industry you want to work in

• Prioritise the most common ones from the beginning

• As soon as you get a certificate, add it to your CV

• Employers take accredited candidates much more seriously

Final thoughts

The accreditation system in Australia can feel overwhelming at first, but it exists for a reason: industries value safety, trust, and professionalism.

Taking accreditations seriously from the start can:

• Speed up your job search

• Open more doors

• Help you earn better wages

• Reduce the stress and frustration of not finding work quickly