Consultation opens on seven potential crane licensing reforms

A draft impact analysis examines options including new licence types and changes to the requirements for existing crane licences.

The High Risk Licensing Framework under the model WHS laws is intended to prevent injuries and deaths by ensuring crane operators have the necessary training, qualifications and competence.

The proposals follow public consultations in 2022 and 2024, which helped shape potential licensing changes. Safe Work Australia Members subsequently considered options for broader reform of the High Risk Work Licensing Framework, leading the Agency to prepare the draft analysis.

Safe Work Australia is seeking comments on the analysis and further evidence about the costs and benefits of each option. Submissions may address all the proposed reforms or only those relevant to the person or organisation responding.

People with an interest in crane regulation are invited to contribute, including workers, employers, business owners, suppliers, manufacturers, industry and peak bodies, WHS regulators, WHS professionals and academics.

Feedback will contribute to a Regulatory Impact Statement for consideration by WHS Ministers. Submissions can be lodged through Safe Work Australia’s Consultation Hub.

Other potential crane licensing changes will go through a similar process later in 2026.

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