A C0 crane ticket course covers slewing mobile cranes that are open or over 100 tonnes. At CTI, the nationally recognised unit is TLILIC0020 Licence to operate a slewing mobile crane (over 100 tonnes).
Before you start, you will need a current DG dogging licence. From there, the course prepares you for the practical and written work involved in applying for a C0 crane licence through WorkSafe Victoria.
A 4-day crane operator course combines theory, practical crane work and assessment. You will not spend every hour in the cab. Planning a lift, checking equipment, communicating with the crew and securing the crane are all part of the job.
The course starts before the first morning. CTI will send you pre-learning in the form of a workbook after enrolment. You need to complete it properly, ahead of time, and bring it with you. It gives you time to get familiar with the language and concepts you will use during the week.
You will also complete enrolment paperwork and a pre-training review. CTI checks language, literacy and numeracy so trainers can confirm that you can follow written material, make calculations and take part safely in the course.
Have these ready before your C0 crane ticket training starts:
- a current DG dogging licence
- a Unique Student Identifier (USI)
- current photo identification
- completed enrolment and pre-training forms
- completed pre-learning workbook, where supplied
- PPE and practical clothing, including steel-capped boots, high-vis clothing, hard hat and gloves
Remember, this is hands-on training. Wear clothing that lets you move safely around the crane and lifting gear, and arrive ready for a full day.
Ready to find a date that works for you? View the C0 crane course calendar.
See how the 4 days build your skills
The exact timetable can change between intakes. Still, your C0 crane course will move from planning and checks through to operating, transferring loads and assessment tasks.
Start with planning and safe work
Early sessions focus on the work that needs to happen before the crane moves. You will look at your responsibilities, site conditions, personal safety equipment and the safe work method statement (SWMS).
You will also work through job and site planning. That may include the lift area, people working nearby, communication arrangements and the steps needed before you begin.
A crane operator needs to understand the plan before starting the controls.
Move into checks, set-up and inspections
Next comes the routine that supports safe crane operation. You will practise pre-operational and operational checks, along with crane and sling inspections.
You will also cover how to set up the crane for the task and identify issues that need attention before operation.
Good habits formed during your crane operator course carry over to every shift after you receive your crane ticket.
Spend time operating and transferring loads
The practical component puts the earlier work into action. Under trainer direction, you will operate the crane, transfer loads, work with mobile loads and use the communication methods expected on site.
Your DG experience comes into play here. You will work with the lifting team, stay aware of the load path and respond calmly to instructions. The aim is controlled, deliberate operation rather than rushing through a movement.
You will also learn the steps for shutting down and securing the crane. A lift does not finish when the load reaches its destination.
Finish with assessment tasks and feedback
Assessment can take place across the training period rather than being saved for the final afternoon. Assessment methods can include written questions, case studies and practical demonstrations.
Your assessor is looking for consistent, safe performance. That includes how you plan work, complete checks, use the crane, transfer loads and close the job down.
Ask questions whenever you are unsure. It is much easier to clarify a signal, sequence or process during a course than when you are working on a live site.
Expect a proper assessment standard
C0 crane work carries real responsibility. Assessment asks you to apply your skills in a simulated work environment.
During the course, you will be expected to show that you can:
- plan a job and assess the site
- complete routine and operational checks
- inspect the crane and slings
- set up and operate the crane safely
- transfer loads, including mobile loads
- shut down and secure the crane once work is complete
Some tasks will be completed on your own, while others involve working with an operator, dogger or broader lifting crew.
Know what happens after successful assessment
Once you have completed the course, met all requirements and paid the relevant fees, CTI can issue a Statement of Attainment. This records your successful completion of the training.
Your C0 crane licence comes from WorkSafe Victoria. After passing assessment, you will receive an Assessment Number by email or a Notice of Assessment. You then apply to WorkSafe through myWorkSafe and lodge the result within 60 calendar days.
Leave yourself time to complete the application. WorkSafe requires identity documents and an application fee, and it may take up to 45 calendar days to process an application. Once approved, you can access a digital licence through your myWorkSafe account while the physical card is sent to you.
Make day one smoother
Check your forms before you leave home, pack your PPE the night before and give yourself enough travel time to arrive settled.
Use the week to build a safe operating routine. Listen closely, practise each sequence and ask for feedback when something does not feel clear.
By the end of the 4 days, you should understand what is expected in C0 crane operations and what you need to do next to apply for your C0 crane ticket.
Looking for dates? View the course calendar. Not sure whether this is the right crane ticket for the work you are doing? Enquire now and tell CTI about the crane and site conditions involved.
Frequently asked questions
Can I transfer an interstate C0 crane licence to Victoria?
Yes, provided you hold a valid interstate High Risk Work licence and live in Victoria. WorkSafe allows interstate licence transfers through myWorkSafe within 12 months of the current licence expiry date. People who do not live in Victoria need reasonable grounds for applying for a Victorian transfer.
How long is a C0 crane licence valid in Victoria?
A Victorian High Risk Work licence is valid for 5 years. Keep an eye on the expiry date and renew through WorkSafe before it lapses. A licence that has been expired for more than 12 months may need evidence of exceptional circumstances before WorkSafe can accept a late renewal.
Can I use a C0 crane ticket to operate a slewing telehandler?
Slewing telehandlers need a slewing mobile crane High Risk Work licence that matches the machine’s rated capacity. Depending on the telehandler, a C0 class may be the relevant licence. Check the machine specifications and WorkSafe guidance before you accept the job.
