Question 1

What does a rigger do in Australia?

Accepted Answer

A rigger sets up and moves heavy loads using mechanical equipment including cranes, hoists and lifting gear. Riggers select appropriate rigging equipment, calculate load weights and centre of gravity, direct crane operators during lifts, inspect rigging equipment, and secure loads for transport. Under the Building and Construction General On-site Award 2020 (MA000020), riggers are classified based on their qualifications and level of responsibility.

Question 2

What award covers riggers in Australia?

Accepted Answer

Riggers working on construction sites are typically covered by the Building and Construction General On-site Award 2020 (MA000020). This award sets minimum pay rates, penalty rates and conditions for employees working in building and construction. Always verify which award applies to your specific construction business.

Question 3

What classification level should I use for a rigger?

Accepted Answer

Under the Building and Construction General On-site Award 2020, riggers are typically classified based on their rigging licence level. Basic riggers (RI Basic) may be classified at Construction Worker Level 3, while Intermediate riggers (RI Intermediate) and Advanced riggers (RI Advanced) are typically classified at Level 4 or higher depending on responsibilities. See our Building and Construction Award rates guide for current classifications.

Question 4

Should I include pay rates in a rigger job description?

Accepted Answer

While not legally required, including indicative pay rates helps attract suitable candidates and sets clear expectations. You can reference the applicable award rate or use phrases like 'Award rates plus penalties and allowances' or 'Competitive rates based on experience.' Check the Building and Construction General On-site Award 2020 for current rates.

Question 5

What licence do riggers need in Australia?

Accepted Answer

Riggers must hold a valid High Risk Work Licence (HRWL) for rigging issued by the relevant state or territory WorkSafe authority. There are three levels: RI Basic (Basic Rigging), RI Intermediate (Intermediate Rigging), and RI Advanced (Advanced Rigging). The level required depends on the complexity of rigging work. All construction site workers also require a White Card (General Construction Induction).

Question 6

How long does it take to get a rigging licence?

Accepted Answer

Obtaining a rigging licence typically takes 2-4 weeks depending on your training provider and the licence level. Basic Rigging courses usually take 5 days, while Intermediate and Advanced courses require additional training days. After completing the training, you must apply for the HRWL through your state WorkSafe authority, which typically takes 1-2 weeks to process.

Question 7

Do riggers need a White Card?

Accepted Answer

Yes, all workers on construction sites in Australia must hold a current White Card (General Construction Induction). This is a mandatory requirement under WHS legislation. The White Card course covers basic safety awareness and can be completed in one day.

Question 8

What other certifications are useful for riggers?

Accepted Answer

Additional certifications that enhance employability include: Dogman licence (DG), Scaffolding licence, Crane operator licence (various classes), Working at Heights training, First Aid certification, and EWP (Elevating Work Platform) licence. Many riggers also hold multiple rigging licence levels.

Question 9

Should I hire casual or permanent riggers?

Accepted Answer

This depends on your project pipeline and workforce needs. Permanent staff provide consistency for long-term projects, while casuals offer flexibility for short-term contracts and variable workload. Many construction companies use a mix of both. See our guide on casual vs permanent employment trends.

Question 10

What penalty rates apply to riggers?

Accepted Answer

Penalty rates under the Building and Construction General On-site Award 2020 apply for: Saturdays, Sundays, public holidays, and overtime. Construction work often involves weekend work and extended hours, so penalty rates are common. Use award interpretation software to calculate rates accurately.

Question 11

What allowances apply to riggers?

Accepted Answer

Riggers are entitled to various allowances under the Building and Construction General On-site Award 2020, including: industry allowance, tool allowance, height work allowance (when working above certain heights), confined space allowance (if applicable), and travel allowances for work beyond a certain distance. Ensure your payroll system correctly applies all applicable allowances.

Question 12

What should I include in a rigger employment contract?

Accepted Answer

Key elements include: position title and classification level, employment type (casual/part-time/full-time), hourly rate, applicable award, reporting structure, main duties, work locations and sites, shift patterns and hours, licence verification, PPE requirements, and site-specific safety requirements. Use our digital employment contracts to simplify this process.

Question 13

What safety requirements apply to riggers?

Accepted Answer

Riggers must comply with all WHS legislation and site-specific safety requirements. This includes conducting pre-start equipment inspections, following safe work method statements (SWMS), using appropriate PPE, maintaining valid licences, participating in toolbox talks, and following site safety procedures. Rigging is high-risk work requiring strict safety protocols.

Question 14

How often must rigging equipment be inspected?

Accepted Answer

Rigging equipment must be visually inspected before each use by the rigger. Detailed inspections by a competent person must be conducted at intervals specified by the manufacturer or legislation (typically every 6-12 months). All equipment must be tagged and records maintained. Damaged or expired equipment must be immediately removed from service.

Question 15

What is a Safe Work Method Statement for rigging?

Accepted Answer

A Safe Work Method Statement (SWMS) is a mandatory document for high-risk construction work including rigging operations. It identifies hazards, assesses risks, and documents control measures for specific rigging tasks. Riggers must be inducted on relevant SWMS before commencing work and must follow the documented procedures.

Question 16

Can apprentices do rigging work?

Accepted Answer

No, rigging is classified as high-risk work under WHS legislation and can only be performed by persons holding the appropriate High Risk Work Licence. However, trainees can assist licensed riggers under direct supervision while undertaking approved training courses leading to their own rigging licence.

Rigger job description