TAFE NSW Hunter Institute

Trades Recognition

Recognition Services for Experienced Workers

We understand that you may have plenty of experience but may not have the qualification you need to get your trade licence or qualify to work in New South Wales. Finding out about Trades Recognition can be difficult, because in the Australian system of state-based licences, different organisations are responsible for issuing licences in each state, and different requirements apply.

Hunter TAFE offers a range of Recognition Services for Experienced Workers to help you gain the qualification you need, from Certificate I to Advanced Diploma. Our services may include an assessment interview, or a full skills assessment in our workshop, or at your place of employment. Charges apply to these services.

  • For most Buildiing Trades, contact the Industry and Natural Resources Training Unit on 02 4936 0278 for an information package. The trades that INR Training Unit can help you with are listed on the TAFE NSW website for Fast Track Recognition.
  • For other courses, email the Recognition Centre or phone on 02 49237774.

Understanding Trades Recognition:

There are three main agencies that deal with Trades Recognition in New South Wales:

1. Office of Fair Trading (OFT)
2. Vocational Training Tribunal (VTT) of State Training Services
3. TAFE NSW or other Registered Training Organisations (RTOs)

  • The OFT issues your licences. For more information go to the OFT website. In many cases, the OFT will not issue you with a licence unless you hold the relevant Australian qualification.
  • The VTT can issue you with either a Craft Certificate (confirming at least 4 years' work in an industry) or a Certificate of Proficiency (confirming at least 4 years' work in an industry PLUS the required course of formal training). Visit the Trade Skills Recognition website of State Traiining Services for contact details and further information. Charges apply to these services.
  • TAFE NSW and other RTOs issue qualifications only.