Forklift Licences and Immigration: What International Workers Need to Know
Australia’s logistics, warehousing, and construction industries rely heavily on a skilled and diverse workforce—including many international workers. If you’re new to the country and looking to secure work as a forklift operator, or you’re an employer hiring visa holders, understanding the licensing and legal requirements is essential.
In this article, we’ll answer some of the most common questions about forklift licences and immigration in Australia, covering licence transferability, visa eligibility, and employer responsibilities under Australian law.
Can I Use My Overseas Forklift Licence in Australia?
No, you cannot use a foreign forklift licence to operate a forklift in Australia.
All forklift operators must hold a valid High Risk Work Licence (HRWL) issued by an Australian work health and safety (WHS) regulator.
Even if you’ve completed training or have extensive experience in another country, you’ll still need to:
- Complete accredited forklift training through a Registered Training Organisation (RTO) in Australia
- Pass both theory and practical assessments
- Apply for your HRWL through your local regulator (e.g. WorkSafe VIC, SafeWork NSW)
Unfortunately, Australia does not currently recognise foreign forklift licences or certifications, even from countries with similar standards.
What Is the Minimum Requirement to Get a Forklift Licence in Australia?
To be eligible for a forklift HRWL (either LF for standard forklifts or LO for order pickers), you must:
- Be at least 18 years old
- Provide valid & current photo ID.
- Complete a recognised training course with an RTO
- Pass a competency-based assessment conducted by a WorkSafe-accredited assessor
- Submit an application to your state’s WHS authority
You do not need a car driver’s licence, but you must have sufficient English language skills to understand safety signs, complete the training, and participate in assessments.
Do Employers Need to Do Anything Special When Hiring International Forklift Operators?
Yes—employers must:
- Check visa work conditions before hiring any non-citizen
- Verify HRWL details with the appropriate state or territory regulator
- Ensure the worker is competent in English and understands site-specific safety rules
- Maintain records of training and licence documentation for compliance
- Provide site-specific induction and any required refresher training
Hiring someone without valid work rights or a proper licence is a breach of both immigration and WHS laws, which can lead to serious fines or legal action.
For example, under the Migration Act 1958, it is illegal to knowingly or recklessly allow unlawful non-citizens to work, or to allow lawful non-citizens to work in breach of their visa conditions.
Are Forklift Roles Included in Skilled Occupation Lists?
Standard forklift operators are not currently on Australia’s skilled occupation lists for general skilled migration (e.g. subclass 189, 190, or 491 visas). However, forklift operation is often part of broader roles like:
- Warehouse Managers
- Logistics Coordinators
- Machinery Operators
- Storepersons or Yard Hands
If you are applying for a skilled visa, your forklift skills may support your application if they’re part of your broader industry experience—but forklift operation alone does not usually qualify for independent migration.
Key Takeaways for International Workers and Employers
- Overseas forklift licences are not recognised in Australia
- You must be 18+, have valid work rights, and complete training through an RTO to get an HRWL
- Employers are responsible for checking visa conditions and licence validity
- Forklift operation is a valuable skill, but not a standalone skilled occupation for migration
- Student and working holiday visa holders can work in forklift roles, within their visa conditions
Conclusion: Compliance First, Opportunity Follows
Forklift operation is a great entry point into Australia’s growing warehousing and logistics sectors—but only if you’re properly licenced and legally allowed to work. For international workers, this means completing local training. For employers, it means verifying everything before hiring.
By taking a compliance-first approach, both workers and businesses can benefit from the many opportunities that Australia’s forklift industry has to offer.
