High-risk licence renewal in NSW: What you need to know

n the construction, warehousing, and logistics industries, your High-Risk Work Licence (HRW licence) is more than just a credential—it’s your key to legally operating equipment and performing specialist tasks safely.

Whether operating a forklift truck, working in scaffolding, or using earthmoving equipment, staying up to date with your licence and qualifications is critical for health and safety, legal compliance, and protecting your job prospects.

If your licence is nearing its expiry date, this guide will help you understand exactly how to renew your high-risk work licence in NSW and what happens if it expires.

What is a high-risk work licence?

A High Risk Work Licence allows you to perform high-risk work in any Australian state or territory legally. Issued by SafeWork NSW, this licence confirms that you’ve completed training, passed a satisfactory assessment, and are competent to operate certain types of equipment or perform specialised tasks safely.

Common licence classes include:

• LF – Standard forklift licence (mast and fork arms)

• LO – Order picking forklift truck licence

• Dogging and rigging – Basic to advanced levels

• Cranes – Vehicle loading cranes, tower cranes, slewing mobile cranes and more

• Scaffolding work – Basic, intermediate and advanced

• Hoists and pressure equipment

• Reach stackers and specialised lifting gear.

Each class has its own training and assessment requirements, and must be delivered by a Registered Training Organisation (RTO) such as All Class Training.

How long does a high-risk licence last? 

In NSW, a high-risk work licence is valid for five years from the date it’s issued. Whether you’ve added multiple classes to your licence or hold a single one (such as LF or LO), all classes share the same expiry date.

SafeWork NSW will send you a notice before your licence expires to remind you to submit your renewal application. Keeping your postal address and contact details current ensures you don’t miss essential reminders. 

How to renew your high-risk work licence in NSW 

You can renew your licence up to 12 months before the expiry date. The fastest way is to renew your licence online via the SafeWork NSW website.

You will need:

• Your licence number

• Proof of identity (e.g. passport, Medicare card)

• Your licence card

• A valid payment method

• Updated contact and postal address details.

After applying online, your new licence will be posted to you.

If you prefer, you can still lodge your renewal application online via Service NSW or in person at at a service NSW centre by completing the paperwork sent to you and attaching all required documents.

What happens if my high-risk licence expires? 

If your HRW licence has expired, you are no longer legally permitted to perform high-risk work. This includes operating any powered industrial truck, such as a forklift, or undertaking dogging, rigging, scaffolding, or crane work.

However, you still have options:

• You can renew your licence within 12 months of expiry.
  
  

• Your licence is no longer valid after 12 months, and you must complete training again with a Registered Training Organisation.
  
  

• Your RTO must apply to SafeWork NSW for an exemption to retrain and reissue your licence.

Important tips for high-risk licence renewal in NSW 

1. Always update your contact details with SafeWork to avoid missing your renewal notice.
   
   

2. Keep your licence card and documents in a safe place. You’ll need them to renew your licence or apply for a new class.
   
   

3. If you're planning to add another licence class (e.g., upgrading from LF to include rigging or crane work), you must have relevant training, a satisfactory assessment, and a new competency sign-off from an accredited assessor.
   
   

4. Remember: only a licensed person under direct supervision or who has met all training, competency & licensing requirements may perform high-risk work.

Book high-risk training or licence renewal support with All Class Training

At All Class Training, we make it easy to obtain, upgrade, or renew your high-risk work licence in NSW. Based in Newcastle, we’re an experienced Registered Training Organisation (RTO #70245) delivering practical, nationally recognised training throughout the Hunter, Central Coast, and surrounding areas.

Whether you're due for licence renewal, adding a new class, or need to complete further training after your licence has expired, our expert trainers will guide you every step of the way.

We offer high-risk work training in:

• Forklift training (LF and LO)

• Dogging and rigging

• Scaffolding

• C6 crane operations

• EWP and more.

Contact our team today on (02) 4964 9406 or email training@allclass.net.au to discuss upcoming course dates or get help with your renewal application.