Do EWP tickets expire in WA? Under 11m vs over 11m explained

If you operate a scissor lift or boom lift, or you’ve just completed EWP training, it’s normal to ask: do EWP tickets expire, and do I need refresher training to stay compliant?

In WA, the answer depends on what you mean by “EWP ticket”, because people use that phrase for two very different things:

• EWP operator training (for EWPs that don’t require a High Risk Work Licence), and; 
• A High Risk Work Licence (HRWL) for boom-type EWPs where the boom length is 11 metres or more.

Do EWP tickets expire in WA?

Think of it like this:

• Under 11m (and other EWPs that don’t require licensing): you’re usually relying on training and competency evidence (such as a Statement of Attainment and site verification).
• Over 11m boom-type: you’re relying on a regulator-issued High Risk Work Licence that must be renewed.

EWP training (typically used for EWPs that don’t require a High Risk Work Licence)

For many scissor lifts and boom-type EWPs that don’t fall into the HRWL category, operators complete competency-based training and receive a nationally recognised Statement of Attainment.

A commonly used unit is the RIIHAN301E Operate elevating work platform.

Important: the training certificate itself generally doesn’t “expire” like a licence does. But your ability to operate on a site still depends on demonstrated competence.

In practice, you may be asked for:

• Recent experience (currency)
• A site-based Verification of Competency (VOC)
• Site-specific induction and task sign-off (especially on larger construction or mining sites)

So while the certificate might not have an expiry date, access to equipment on a particular site can still depend on your competency being current and verified.

Equip-Safe’s EWP training is designed to build practical skills and site-ready confidence for operators working on WA sites.

Boom-type EWP with a boom length of 11m or more (HRWL required)

If you operate a boom-type elevating work platform where the boom length is 11 metres or more, WorkSafe WA requires you to hold a High Risk Work Licence (HRWL). (worksafe.wa.gov.au)

In Western Australia:

• A HRWL is valid for 5 years.
• You can renew your HRWL from 90 days before expiry up to 12 months after expiry.
• If you renew after it has expired, you cannot perform that high risk work until the renewal is granted.

Do you need refresher training to renew your HRWL in WA?

Not automatically, but there are two non-negotiables in WA:

• You must renew within the allowed window (90 days before expiry to 12 months after expiry).
• You must have maintained competency in the licence class to renew.

If your HRWL is more than 12 months expired, you will not be able to renew it. You will need to complete your assessment again before you can apply for another licence. 

What is EWP refresher training and when is it useful?

Refresher training isn’t always required by law, but it’s often a smart move when:

• You haven’t operated an EWP for an extended period
• A site or principal contractor requires recent evidence of competence
• Your employer requires a VOC before you return to the machine
• There has been an incident or near miss and additional training is part of corrective action

From a duty-of-care perspective, PCBUs must ensure workers are competent. Refresher training (and VOC processes) are practical ways to demonstrate that competence is current.

Practical examples

Example 1: Under 11m operator

You completed EWP training a few years ago but haven’t been on a scissor lift in a long time. A site may require a VOC or a short practical verification before you operate.

Example 2: Over 11m boom-type operator

Your HRWL is close to expiry. You need to renew to keep operating a boom-type EWP where the boom length is 11m or more.

Example 3: New site requirement

You have valid EWP training, but a new site requires a site-specific VOC and induction before you can start.

What is an EWP VOC?

A Verification of Competency (VOC) is an employer or site-led assessment used to confirm a worker can safely operate specific equipment in that environment.

A VOC may include:

• Review of training records
• Practical observation of operation
• Questions about hazards, controls, and site rules

A VOC doesn’t replace formal training. It’s a way to confirm your skills are current and suitable for the job and site conditions.

Stay compliant and site-ready

Whether you need initial EWP training, a pathway to boom-type EWP over 11m (HRWL), or refresher support, the right course helps you stay confident, compliant and job-ready for WA sites.

Enrol in EWP training with Equip-Safe and make sure your competency and licensing aligns with WorkSafe WA requirements and site expectations.