What do you need to be a traffic controller in Victoria?

Wondering How to Become a Traffic Controller in Victoria? Here’s What You Need to Know.

Every day, traffic controllers help keep our roads safe. Whether it’s guiding cars through construction zones or directing pedestrians at busy intersections, their role is crucial. But getting into this career involves more than just picking up a stop/slow bat.

There are important steps to follow, including specific training, licensing and safety qualifications. And because each state and territory has its own rules, it can be tricky to know where to start.

This guide will walk you through the entire process. You’ll find out what traffic controllers actually do, which courses you need to take, and how Star Training & Assessing can help you get job-ready with nationally recognised qualifications. 

What Does a Traffic Controller Actually Do?

Traffic controllers do much more than wave signs. They help manage the safe movement of vehicles, pedestrians and cyclists near roadworks, construction projects and public events.

Their day-to-day responsibilities often include:

• Setting up and using traffic signs and equipment
• Controlling the flow of traffic to protect workers and the public
• Using radios and signals to stay in touch with the team
• Keeping track of weather, road conditions and nearby hazards
• Writing up incident reports and following safety procedures

It’s a fast-paced role that requires focus and clear communication. You’ll often be outdoors, working early mornings or weekends, and you’ll need to make quick decisions to keep everyone safe.

Your Essential Steps to Becoming a Traffic Controller in Australia

Step 1: Secure Your White Card (Construction Induction)

Before you can work on any construction site, you’ll need a White Card. This course teaches the basics of workplace health and safety in high-risk environments. It’s the first step in your traffic control journey.

Here’s what you should know:

• Course name: CPCWHS1001 – Prepare to Work Safely in the Construction Industry
• Duration: 1 day, in-person
• Cost: From $140
• Prerequisites: Government-issued photo ID and basic English skills
• Outcome: Statement of Attainment, with your White Card delivered by WorkSafe Victoria within about three weeks

Please note: In Victoria, a pre-requisite to enrol in the TC1/TMI1 Traffic Control/Management Course is holding CPCWHS1001 – Prepare to Work Safely in the Construction Industry (or equivalent).

This certification is essential before beginning any traffic control training. Star Training & Assessing delivers the White Card course across Victoria and Western Australia.

Step 2: Complete Nationally Recognised Traffic Control Training

Once you have your White Card, it’s time to enrol in nationally recognised traffic control courses. These courses cover the key skills you’ll need for real sites and follow the Austroads harmonised standards.

You must first complete Category 1 Road training in Victoria before progressing to Category 2 and 3 roads.

The Category 1 Road Combined Course, has multiple units of competencies –

TC1 (RIISS00058 – Traffic Controller Skill Set for Urban Streets and Low Volume Rural Roads) –

• RIICOM201E Communicate in the workplace
• RIIWHS205E Control traffic with stop-slow bat
• RIIWHS206 Control traffic with portable traffic control devices and temporary traffic signs

 

TMI1 (RIISS00060 – Traffic Management Implementer Skill Set for Urban Streets and Low Volume Rural Roads)

• RIICOM201E Communicate in the workplace
• RIIRIS301E Apply risk management processes
• RIIWHS302E Implement traffic management plans
• RIIWHS303 Position, set up and program portable traffic control devices

Course details:

• Duration: Training is for 3 days (2  days classroom, 1 day simulated assessment).  This is then followed by 20 hours on-field placement and then a final practical assessment.
• Cost: $650 online or $660 by phone
• Final Practical Assessment: 1 day at $350–$360
• Registration fees for Austroads are included in the price: $125 total

Additional core units include communication and safety procedures to ensure you’re fully equipped for the job. At Star Training & Assessing, we offer a special combined course containing both courses for easy convenience.

Step 3: Gain Practical On-Site Experience

Completing the classroom component is only part of the process. You’ll need practical supervised work experience to finalise your certification.

In Victoria, you will need at least 20 hours experience using a stop/slow bat, and you will need to set up and pack up 2 different Traffic Management Schemes.

This aspect of the process can be daunting for newbies, so Star Training & Assessing provided students with placement and also provides a Final Practical Assessment Day at their training centre. It is designed to help you achieve requirements in a secure, staged way.

Step 4: Obtain Your State/Territory-Specific Licence or Card

Once your training and assessments are complete, you’ll receive a Digital Training Card and your Statement of Attainment from Star Training and Assessing.  You will now be qualified to perform Traffic Controller and Traffic Management Implementer duties in Victoria on Category 1 Roads.

Your qualification will be valid  for three years and will require you to attend refresher training to renew.

Required Key Skills and Prerequisites for a Traffic Control Course

To become a strong traffic controller, you’ll need a mix of formal training and skills. Employers look for people who can stay calm under pressure and follow instructions carefully.

Essential skills include:

Communication

• You’ll need to give clear directions and use radios effectively

Focus

• Being alert to hazards like speeding vehicles or changes in conditions

Physical fitness

• You’ll spend long hours standing, often in challenging weather

Quick thinking

• Making smart decisions to protect workers and drivers

Prerequisites include holding a pre-requisite unit CPCWHS1001 – Prepare to Work Safely in the Construction Industry (or equivalent), having a photo ID, and being competent in reading, writing and speaking basic English. A valid driver’s licence is also highly recommended.

Why a Career in Traffic Control is a Smart Move

Traffic control offers reliable job opportunities, especially with Australia’s continued investment in roads and infrastructure. The industry is expected to grow by over $273 million by 2029, driven by urban development and smart traffic technologies.

Benefits of this career include:

• High demand across construction and civil projects
• Potentially strong job security and competitive pay
• Pathways to progress into higher roles, like a Traffic Management Designer
• The satisfaction of keeping your community safe

With the proper training and support, it’s an ideal option for anyone seeking a hands-on, essential position.

Partner with Star Training & Assessing for Your Traffic Control Journey

If you’re serious about becoming a qualified traffic controller, it pays to choose a provider that understands the industry. Star Training & Assessing has been delivering quality vocational education since 2006. With a reputation for excellence and real-world training, they offer the courses and support you need to succeed.

Why students choose Star Training for Traffic Control Course:

• Combined TC1 and TMI1 course for traffic control
• White Card training for construction induction
• Convenient locations in Rowville, Laverton North and Pakenham
• Practical learning with flexible options for groups and individuals
• Courses available in Victoria, WA and Queensland

 

Take the first step today.