Rigging RB – AOTA | Training & Assessment Illawarra

Rigging vs. Dogging | The 2026 Career Roadmap to Earning Top Dollar

by Nigel Burnett | Jan 17, 2026 | Advanced Rigging RA, CPCCLDG3001: Licence to Perform Dogging, CPCCLRG3002 Licence to Perform Rigging Intermediate Level, Dogging Licence (DG), High Risk Work, Rigging RA, Rigging RB, Rigging RI, Rigging vs. Dogging, TLILIC0023 Licence to Operate a Mobile Slewing Crane (up to 60 tonnes)

If you have spent a few months on a construction site in the Illawarra, you have probably noticed a hierarchy. There are the laborers, there are the trades, and then there are the Riggers.

Rigging is often viewed as the “Dark Art” of the construction world. While the Dogman directs the crane, the Rigger is the one calculating the impossible, erecting the steel skeleton of the building, and moving plant equipment that weighs more than a house.

As we head into 2026, with major industrial projects like the BlueScope transformation and the Shoalhaven Hospital redevelopment ramping up, the demand for dual-ticketed (Dogging + Rigging) operators is skyrocketing.

But for those just starting out, the terminology can be confusing. What is the difference between Dogging and Rigging? Do you need one to get the other? And most importantly, which one pays more?

In this guide, we map out the complete pathway from “Green” to “Advanced Rigger,” with specific dates for our January 2026 intakes at Unanderra.

The Foundation: It All Starts with Dogging (DG)

You cannot build a house without a slab, and you cannot become a Rigger without first being a Dogman.

The Licence to Perform Dogging (CPCCLDG3001) is the prerequisite for all Rigging courses.

The Rule: You must hold a current DG ticket (or be enrolled in the course) before you can sit the Basic Rigging course.
The Logic: Rigging involves complex lifting. If you don’t know how to select a sling or direct a crane (which you learn in Dogging), you aren’t safe to start erecting steel.

Pro Tip: If you are completely new, we recommend booking our Dogging course first, then immediately following it up with Rigging.

Level 1: Basic Rigging (RB) – The Steel Erector

Once you have your Dogging ticket, the next step is Basic Rigging (CPCCLRG3001). This is the “bread and butter” ticket for general construction.

What You Learn: While Dogging is about moving loads, Basic Rigging is about securing and assembling them.

Steel Erection: You will learn how to bolt together structural steel columns and beams. This is the core skill for working on high-rise buildings and industrial sheds.
Cantilevered Crane Loading Platforms (CCLP): Those platforms you see sticking out of skyscrapers to land materials? You learn to install them.
Winches & Gin Poles: Old school skills that are still vital when a crane can’t reach the area.

The Job Market: With an RB ticket, you stop being just a “hook hand” and become a steel erector. This instantly makes you more valuable to structural steel companies and general builders in the Illawarra.

Level 2: Intermediate Rigging (RI) – The Heavy Lifter

This is where the boys are separated from the men. Intermediate Rigging (CPCCLRG3002) takes you away from simple steel erection and into complex, heavy lifts.

The Core Skills:

Dual Crane Lifts: Lifting a load with two cranes simultaneously. This requires precise calculation and coordination.
Tilt-Up Panels: This is huge in commercial warehousing (like the new logistics hubs in Kembla Grange). You learn to safely rotate and stand up massive concrete wall panels.
Demolition Rigging: Safely dismantling structures.

Why Get It? If you want to work on major industrial shutdowns or mine sites, RI is often the minimum standard. It shows you can handle “non-standard” lifts.

Level 3: Advanced Rigging (RA) – The Specialist

The Advanced Rigging (CPCCLRG4001) ticket is the PhD of the lifting world. It covers specialised equipment that terrifies most normal people.

The Core Skills:

Hung Scaffolds & Suspended Stages: rigging platforms that hang from the building rather than standing on the ground.
Gin Poles & Shear Legs: Complex leverage systems used when cranes are not an option.

This ticket is essential for anyone wanting to work in specialised maintenance, bridge building, or high-rise facade installation.

The “Combo” Strategy: How to Fast-Track Your Income

In 2026, the smartest operators aren’t just doing one course at a time with six months in between. They are doing “Block Training.”

By completing your Dogging and Basic Rigging back-to-back at AOTA, you enter the workforce as a “Dual Ticketed” operator.

Why Employers Love This:

You can sling the load (Dogging).
You can bolt it up (Rigging).
You are useful 100% of the time, not just when the hook is down.

Bonus: The C6 Crane Ticket

For those who want to get off the ground and into the seat, the Slewing Mobile Crane (up to 60 tonnes) – TLILIC0023 is the logical next step.

Being a Rigger who can also jump in the crane seat when needed makes you “unfireable” on many crews.

Train with the Best in the Illawarra

At AOTA, our Unanderra facility is set up for high-risk work. We don’t just read from a textbook.

Real Cranes: We train on real slewing mobile cranes, not simulators.
Real Steel: You will erect actual steel structures during your RB assessment.
Real Experience: Our trainers have worked on the biggest shutdowns and construction projects in Australia.

Don’t spend 2026 wondering “what if.” Get the ticket, get the skills, and get the pay rate you deserve

Ready to unlock your full potential? Explore our available courses further to discover the perfect training path for you. Or, if you have any questions or need personalised guidance, don’t hesitate to contact us. Our friendly team is here to support you every step of the way.

Remember, your dream career is within reach. With AOTA by your side, you can build the skills, confidence, and qualifications you need to succeed. So, take the first step today and start building your future!

Dedicated to your success

Nigel

Know the Risk | Interactive Hazard Finder

From high-risk zones to hidden hazards, this interactive tool helps you identify worksite dangers and shows you the safety training to tackle them confidently.

Understanding RB RI and RA Type Rigging Courses

by john | Jul 20, 2025 | Advanced Rigging RA, Dogging Licence (DG), High Risk Work, Rigging RA, Rigging RB, Rigging RI

Navigating the Levels of Rigging Expertise

Imagine standing at the foot of a towering construction site. Cranes are lifting massive steel beams into place, workers are strategically positioned across the structure, and in the middle of it all is the rigging team, ensuring that every lift is safe and precise. Behind every successful lift is a rigger with the right qualifications and training.

In Australia’s booming construction industry, riggers are critical to the safe and efficient movement of loads. But not all riggers are trained equally—there are various levels of rigging certifications that determine what kind of work you’re qualified to handle. These levels are known as Basic Rigging (RB), Intermediate Rigging (RI), and Advanced Rigging (RA). Understanding the differences between these certifications is key to navigating your career path in this exciting field.

With infrastructure spending projected to exceed $290 billion by 2025, there’s never been a better time to pursue a rigging certification and expand your career opportunities. In this article, we’ll break down the three levels of rigging courses and explain how each can help you advance in the construction and heavy industries.

What Are RB, RI, and RA Rigging Certifications?

The Three Tiers of Rigging Certifications

In Australia, rigging certifications are divided into three levels based on the complexity of the tasks and the equipment involved. Here’s a look at each level:

1. Basic Rigging (RB)
The Basic Rigging (RB) certification is the entry-level qualification for those looking to become a rigger. With an RB licence, you’ll be able to perform basic rigging tasks, such as:

Erecting structural steel.
Setting up hoists, static lines, and safety nets.
Installing pre-cast concrete panels.

This qualification allows you to work on a range of construction sites, but it’s primarily focused on lower-risk rigging tasks. Basic rigging is ideal for those starting in the industry or looking to build foundational skills.

2. Intermediate Rigging (RI)
The Intermediate Rigging (RI) certification is the next step up and builds on the skills learned in basic rigging. With an RI licence, you’ll be qualified to perform more complex rigging tasks, including:

Rigging cranes and other lifting devices.
Erecting tilt-up panels.
Performing rigging tasks involving the use of powered hoists.

Intermediate rigging opens the door to more challenging roles in construction and heavy industries, where more precise and technical rigging skills are required.

3. Advanced Rigging (RA)
The Advanced Rigging (RA) certification is the highest level of rigging qualification in Australia. With an RA licence, you’ll be able to handle the most complex rigging jobs, such as:

Erecting tower cranes.
Rigging for large-scale demolition projects.
Performing dual-lift operations.

Advanced rigging jobs are often found in large infrastructure projects and heavy industries like mining and offshore oil rigs. This certification qualifies you to take on supervisory roles, as well as high-risk projects that require advanced technical knowledge.

Prerequisites for Each Certification

What You Need Before You Enrol

Each level of rigging certification has specific prerequisites to ensure that you have the necessary skills and experience before progressing.

Basic Rigging (RB) Prerequisites
To enroll in a Basic Rigging course, you need to:

Hold a valid Dogging (DG) licence. The dogging licence covers essential skills in directing crane movements and securing loads, which are foundational for rigging work.
Be at least 18 years old.

This is an entry-level certification, so no prior rigging experience is necessary beyond the dogging qualification.

Intermediate Rigging (RI) Prerequisites
To take the Intermediate Rigging course, you must:

Have completed the Basic Rigging (RB) certification.
Hold a valid Dogging (DG) licence.

This ensures that you’ve already gained some rigging experience and are ready to take on more complex tasks.

Advanced Rigging (RA) Prerequisites
For Advanced Rigging, you need to:

Hold both the Basic (RB) and Intermediate (RI) Rigging licences.
Have experience working as an intermediate rigger.

Advanced rigging requires a thorough understanding of complex lifting and rigging operations, so the course builds on the skills learned in the previous two levels.

Career Pathways Based on Rigging Certification

How Each Rigging Certification Impacts Your Career

The level of rigging certification you hold determines the types of projects you can work on and the level of responsibility you’ll take on in the workplace. Here’s how each certification can shape your career:

Basic Rigging (RB) Career Opportunities
With a Basic Rigging licence, you’ll primarily work on smaller-scale construction projects. You’ll be responsible for setting up scaffolding, hoists, and other equipment to support construction activities. Common roles for basic riggers include:

Construction Site Rigger: Setting up rigging systems for general construction tasks.
Precast Concrete Installer: Installing pre-cast panels and ensuring their safe placement.

While basic rigging is essential work, career advancement typically requires moving on to higher-level certifications.

Intermediate Rigging (RI) Career Opportunities
An Intermediate Rigging licence opens the door to more technical and higher-paying roles. With this certification, you can work on larger construction projects, often involving more specialized rigging equipment like cranes and hoists. Career paths for intermediate riggers include:

Crane Rigger: Setting up and operating cranes for large-scale construction or demolition.
Tower Erector: Rigging for the construction of communication towers or high-rise buildings.

Intermediate rigging offers a significant step up in both responsibility and earning potential, with many projects requiring the precision that comes with more advanced training.

Advanced Rigging (RA) Career Opportunities
With an Advanced Rigging licence, you’re qualified for the most challenging and high-risk rigging roles. You’ll often work on major infrastructure projects, where safety and precision are paramount. Career opportunities at this level include:

Rigger Supervisor: Overseeing rigging operations and managing teams of riggers on large construction or mining projects.
Demolition Rigger: Handling complex rigging tasks during the controlled demolition of structures.
Offshore Rigger: Working on oil rigs, where heavy and complex equipment must be moved safely and efficiently.

Advanced riggers are in high demand, particularly for projects like major urban developments and mining operations in Australia’s resource-rich regions.

Choosing the Right Rigging Course for Your Career

How to Decide Which Certification Is Right for You

If you’re just starting out in the rigging industry, the Basic Rigging (RB) course is the perfect entry point. It provides a solid foundation of skills that will open up a range of opportunities on construction sites. Once you’ve gained some experience, progressing to Intermediate Rigging (RI) can help you take on more specialized roles, such as crane operation.

For those who are committed to a long-term career in rigging and want to pursue leadership positions or work on the most technically demanding projects, the Advanced Rigging (RA) certification is the ultimate goal. It offers the most diverse range of career opportunities and the potential for higher salaries.

Elevate Your Career with the Right Rigging Certification

Rigging is a highly specialized and essential role in Australia’s construction and heavy industries. Whether you’re just starting out with a Basic Rigging licence or aiming to advance your career with Intermediate or Advanced certifications, each level provides valuable skills and opens up new job opportunities.

With Australia’s infrastructure projects on the rise, now is the perfect time to invest in your rigging qualifications. By choosing the right certification for your career goals, you’ll position yourself as a valuable asset in a growing industry.

Ready to get started? Explore rigging courses today and take the first step towards mastering the art of rigging.

References:

Infrastructure Australia, “National Infrastructure Plan 2025,” 2024.
Safe Work Australia, “High-Risk Work Licences,” 2023.
National Heavy Vehicle Regulator (NHVR), “Rigging and Lifting Guidelines,” 2024.

Ready to unlock your full potential? Explore our website further to discover the perfect training path for you. Or, if you have any questions or need personalised guidance, don’t hesitate to contact us. Our friendly team is here to support you every step of the way.

Dedicated to your success

Nigel

Illawarra Project | Interactive Skillset Finder

Major projects are shaping our region, this interactive tool helps you identify project skillsets required and the courses available to tackle them confidently.

Beyond the Warehouse | Essential Tickets for Port and Logistics Jobs in the Illawarra

by john | Jun 23, 2025 | Advanced Rigging RA, crane operation, Dogging Licence (DG), First Aid, Heavy Vehicle Licensing, High Risk Work, Mental Health First Aid course, Rigging RA, Rigging RB, Rigging RI

The Supply Chain Champions: Your Guide to a Career in Illawarra’s Logistics & Ports

Every single day, thousands of tonnes of goods flow through the Illawarra. From the massive ships at Port Kembla to the bustling warehouses and transport depots that dot our region, this is the engine room of our local economy. The Illawarra Shoalhaven Regional Plan 2041 identifies the growth of Port Kembla as an international trade hub as a top priority, with the potential to create up to 30,000 new jobs in linked industries. This is a world of constant movement, where efficiency and safety are everything. A career in logistics and port operations is a career in a sector that never sleeps. But to be a part of it, you need the right qualifications. This isn’t just about driving a truck or a forklift; it’s about being a trusted professional in a high-stakes environment.

This guide will break down the key operational areas within the Illawarra’s logistics sector and show you the specific licences that will open doors.

The Heart of the Operation | The Warehouse and Yard

The modern warehouse is a high-tech, fast-paced environment. It’s the central hub where goods are received, sorted, stored, and dispatched.

King of the Aisles, The Forklift Licence (LF)

The forklift is the undisputed workhorse of any warehouse or yard. If you want a job in this environment, a Forklift Operations licence is the single most important qualification you can have.

What you don’t know: This isn’t just a simple competency; it’s a High-Risk Work Licence (HRWL). That means it’s nationally recognised and requires you to be formally assessed as competent to operate safely.
The environment: You’ll be working in tight spaces, loading and unloading trucks against the clock, and navigating around pedestrians and other machinery. Formal training teaches you about load stability, reading data plates, and maintaining situational awareness—skills that prevent accidents and make you an efficient, valuable operator.

The Heavy Hitters | Port Operations & Bulk Loading

When you move from a standard warehouse to a major facility like Port Kembla, the scale changes dramatically. Here, you’re dealing with shipping containers, heavy machinery, and bulk materials that weigh many tonnes. This is where advanced high-risk skills are essential.

The Art of the Heavy Lift: Dogging, Rigging & Cranes

Lifting a 20-tonne container off a ship is a world away from moving a pallet. This is where the lifting professionals come in.

Dogging (DG): Just like on a construction site, the dogger is essential for any crane lift. They are responsible for inspecting lifting gear, applying the correct slinging methods, and directing the crane operator to move the load safely from ship to shore, or from truck to storage.
Rigging (RB, RI, RA): Riggers are needed for more complex tasks, such as assembling and dismantling temporary structures, working with specialised lifting equipment, and managing unconventional or unbalanced loads.
Slewing Mobile Cranes (C6): These versatile cranes are the backbone of many port operations, able to move around the site and perform a huge variety of lifts. Operating a crane with a capacity of up to 60 tonnes requires a C6 High-Risk Work Licence and is a highly sought-after skill.

Connecting the Dots | Transport and Haulage

The final link in the supply chain is the transport network that moves goods from the port or warehouse to their final destination. This requires skilled, professional drivers who hold the correct class of licence.

On the Road, Heavy Vehicle Licences

HR (Heavy Rigid): This allows you to drive trucks with three or more axles. It’s a common licence for local delivery and transport roles.
HC (Heavy Combination): This is for semi-trailers, the most common type of truck for long-distance and B2B freight.
MC (Multi Combination): This is the highest class of licence, for operating B-doubles and road trains.

Holding a Heavy Vehicle Licence opens up a huge range of career opportunities, from local delivery runs to interstate haulage.

The Human Factor | Safety in a 24/7 World

The logistics industry operates under constant pressure, which makes a focus on human safety absolutely critical.

Provide First Aid: In a fast-paced environment with heavy machinery, being able to provide an immediate response to an injury is vital. A Provide First Aid qualification is a huge asset.
Mental Wellbeing: The life of a transport worker or logistics operator can be demanding. Factors like social isolation, tight deadlines, and shift work can take a significant toll on mental health. A Mental Health First Aid course provides the skills to recognise when a colleague is struggling and the confidence to offer support, fostering a safer and more positive workplace culture for everyone. From the warehouse floor to the driver’s seat of a B-double, the Illawarra’s logistics sector offers a diverse range of career paths, each one starting with the right nationally recognised qualification.

References:

Illawarra Shoalhaven Regional Plan 2041.
Property Council of Australia, ‘Backing the Illawarra Shoalhaven: Invest to Support Growth’ Media Release.
Monash University, ‘Why investing in truck drivers’ health is crucial’ Research.
icare NSW, ‘Mental health injuries in the truck driving industry’.
All Onsite Training and Assessment, Mental Health First Aid Course Information.

Dedicated to your success

Nigel

Know the Risk | Interactive Hazard Finder

From high-risk zones to hidden hazards, this interactive tool helps you identify worksite dangers and shows you the safety training to tackle them confidently.

High Risk Work Category

by john | Sep 26, 2024 | Dogging Licence (DG), High Risk Work, Rigging RA, Rigging RB, Rigging RI

High Risk Work Licenses

Because of the increased risks, high risk work is strictly regulated. In Australia, you generally need a specific licence to perform any type of high risk work. These licenses ensure that workers have the necessary training and skills to carry out these activities safely

Forklift

Dogging (DG)

Rigging Basic (RB)

Rigging Intermediate (RI)

Rigging Advanced (RA)

Slewing Mobile Crane up to 60 Tonnes (C6)

All Cranes Training

Scaffolding

Elevating Work Platform

Undertake first response to fire incidents (short course)

Course Schedule

Courses Enquiries

CPCCLRG3001 Licence to perform rigging basic level

by john | Sep 20, 2024 | High Risk Work, Rigging RB

CPCCLRG3001 Licence to Perform Rigging Basic Level

Course Overview

Performance criteria

Duration and Cost

What You Need To Know

Assessment

Re-Assessment

Licences and Certification

Cancellations and Withdrawals

HRWL – Application

Location

What to Bring

Resources Provided

Your Rights & Obligations

This unit specifies the skills and knowledge required to safely perform basic rigging work.

Riggers use mechanical load shifting equipment and associated gear to move, place or secure loads, including plant, equipment or members of a structure. Riggers ensure the stability of those members and set up and dismantle hoists.

This unit applies to rigging work involving:

structural steel erection
hoists
pre-cast concrete members of a structure
safety nets and static lines
mast climbing work platforms
perimeter safety screens and shutters
cantilevered crane loading platforms.

Rigging work is undertaken in construction and other industries where load shifting equipment is used to move, place or secure loads.

Completion of the general construction induction training program, specified in the Safe Work Australia model Code of Practice: Construction Work, is required by anyone carrying out construction work. Achievement of CPCCWHS1001 Prepare to work safely in the construction industry meets this requirement.

This unit has a pre-requisite requirement. This requirement may be met by either the successful completion of the unit CPCCLDG3001 Licence to perform dogging or holding a valid licence for dogging.

This course is a precursor to CPCCLRG3002 Licence to Perform Rigging Intermediate Level

Basic Rigging Course – CPCCLRG3001
Takes a step up from Dogging with more advanced safety apparatus and includes;

Planning:

Understand the task and safety procedures.
Identify hazards and how to control them (e.g., using PPE, fall protection).
Choose the right tools and equipment for the job.
Figure out how to move things safely.
Plan how to communicate with everyone involved.

Preparation:

Double-check that your safety equipment and tools are in good working order.
Inspect rigging equipment carefully and report any problems.
Make sure your communication equipment works.

Setting Up:

Talk to everyone about the plan and safety measures.
Set up safety controls like fall protection.
Make sure the ground and structure are safe for the job.

Doing the Work:

Build or take down structures safely, making sure they are stable.
This could include things like steel beams, concrete pieces, safety nets, or platforms.

Finishing Up:

Clean up the work area.
Check for any damage to equipment and report it.
Put everything away properly.
Remove safety controls.

CPCCLRG3001A – Licence to perform rigging basic level; 5 days including SafeWork NSW assessment
$1,650.00

Must have current dogging licence
All students must pass a language, literacy & numeracy assessment (LLN)
Minimum 18 years of age (Workplace Health and Safety requirement)
PPE is required including safety boots and a hi-vis shirt
Identification must be the originals and not laminated,
100 points Safework NSW EOI – SW08446-0718-423971.pdf

Three (3) assessments will be conducted over the duration of the course – (formative assessment) Knowledge, Calculations and Practical Assessments.
On the last day of the course a summative assessment will be conducted by an approved State regulatory body assessor (e.g. Safe Work NSW) All critical components must be demonstrated and answered correctly.

Applicants deemed not yet competent will be provided the opportunity to undergo further training.
Applicants cannot be reassessed for a minimum of 48 hours from the date of the original assessment.

Note: there may be an extra cost for re-assessment

These are Nationally Recognised Training courses and applicants deemed competent at the conclusion of the course will be provided with a Statement of Attainment CPCCLRG3001 – LICENCE TO PERFORM RIGGING BASIC LEVEL

In the event of cancellation or withdrawal:

Students who give notice to cancel their enrolment more than 10 days prior to the commencement of a program will be entitled to a full refund of fees paid.
Students who give notice to cancel their enrolment less than 10 days prior to the commencement of a program will be entitled to a 75% refund of fees paid. The amount retained (25%) by All Onsite Training and Assessment Services is required to cover the costs of administration and resources which will have already been committed based on the students initial intention to undertake the training.
Students who cancel their enrolment within 1 full business day prior program commencement OR after a training program has commenced will not be entitled to a refund of fees.
If All Onsite Training and Assessment Services cancels the training course, and is not rescheduling then a full refund will be returned to the payer

You will need to go to a participating Australia Post in person to apply. You need to do this within 60 days of receiving your Notice of Satisfactory Assessment from your SafeWork NSW assessor.

You will need to take:

your Notice of Satisfactory Assessment form
a completed Application for a National Licence to Perform High Risk Work – New Application form (N5 form provided by your SafeWork NSW assessor). Do not sign this form, you need to sign it at Australia Post
passport-quality photograph
proof of identity. See evidence of identity information sheet (PDF, 109.92 KB)
any current high risk work licences
payment method (view the cost in the fee schedule).

Training/assessment can be conducted at AOTA Training Facility – 275a Princess Highway, Unanderra NSW

PPE is required including safety boots and a hi-vis shirt
100 points of ID – (including photo ID) link to Safework NSW EOI: SW08446-0718-423971.pdf
Unique Student Identifier Number – http://www.usi.gov.au/create-your-USI/Pages/default.aspx – if you need help with this our trainer will help you on the day.