Traffic management training changes to keep controllers working

The Queensland Government has introduced new measures to keep 4,000 traffic management staff working.

COVID-19 has impacted the ability for temporary traffic management workers to maintain some qualifications.

To ensure they can keep working during this time the state government has temporarily waived the requirement for renewal training for existing traffic controllers whose authority cards expire between 1 March and 30 June 2020.

It has also extended all existing traffic management implementation accreditations which expire between 1 March and 30 June 2020, for 90 days from the expiry.

In addition, the government will work with training organisations to transition to virtual training. It has also introduced a requirement for risk assessments to be conducted before performing classroom-based training for new workers and it will extend the practical experience deadline for trainees.

Transport and Main Roads Minister Mark Bailey said important changes had been made to ensure temporary traffic management workers could keep the qualifications needed to keep Queensland projects ticking over.

“We’ve got more than $23 billion in roads and transport project slated for Queensland. Now more than ever, it’s important that we continue to rollout these projects and support the 21,500 that they will generate,” Mr. Bailey said.

“This is in addition to making sure appropriate COVID-19-related health and safety is a priority on the worksite.”

The government will also extend licence agreements for registered training providers at no cost for an additional 12 months to help offset costs incurred during the pandemic.

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