Mobile Slewing Crane Licence in NSW and What the C6 Licence Covers
Operating a mobile slewing crane involves significant responsibility. These machines are used to lift and position heavy loads across construction, civil infrastructure, mining and other worksites, which is why operators need the correct High Risk Work Licence for the crane they are using.
If you are looking at training for a 60t slew crane in NSW, the relevant licence class is C6. Understanding what this licence covers, how it differs from other crane classes and when additional licences such as Dogging may be required can help you choose the right training for your work.
What Is a C6 Slewing Crane Licence?
A C6 High Risk Work Licence allows a person to operate a slewing mobile crane with a capacity of up to 60 tonnes.
SafeWork NSW separates slewing mobile crane licences according to lifting capacity. C2 covers cranes up to 20 tonnes, C6 covers up to 60 tonnes, C1 covers up to 100 tonnes and C0 applies to cranes over 100 tonnes.
The licence class you need should therefore match the type and capacity of crane you are expected to operate.
What Is a Slewing Mobile Crane?
A slewing mobile crane has a boom or jib that can rotate or slew while the crane itself is mobile.
This ability to lift, rotate and position loads makes these cranes useful across a wide range of projects, but it also introduces significant risks. SafeWork NSW classifies the operation of specified cranes as High Risk Work, meaning operators must hold the appropriate licence class.
Choosing the correct licence is particularly important for employers, as the operator needs to be authorised for the capacity of crane being used.
What Does C6 Crane Training Cover?
Training for a C6 licence focuses on the skills and knowledge required to safely operate a slewing mobile crane with a capacity of up to 60 tonnes.
This includes preparing for crane operations, carrying out checks, identifying hazards, setting up the crane, planning lifting work, operating the equipment safely and shutting down and securing the crane once work is complete.
SKIVL delivers training for workers who are required to perform slewing mobile crane operations up to 60 tonnes as part of their role. The current course is delivered over five days, including four days of training and the SafeWork High Risk Work Licence assessment.
Do You Need a Dogging Licence as Well?
Crane operation and dogging are separate High Risk Work activities.
SafeWork NSW defines dogging as applying slinging techniques to a load, including selecting and inspecting lifting gear, or directing a crane or hoist operator when the load is outside the operator’s view.
Whether you need both licences depends on your role.
A crane operator may operate the crane under the appropriate crane licence, while a worker performing dogging duties needs the relevant Dogging licence. On some sites, workers may benefit from holding both qualifications because their responsibilities include both lifting operations and dogging work.
This is worth confirming with your employer before choosing your training.
Who Is C6 Crane Training Suitable For?
C6 crane training may be relevant for workers across civil construction, infrastructure, mining, transport, construction and other industries where mobile cranes are used.
For existing plant operators, gaining a crane licence can broaden the type of equipment they are qualified to operate and potentially open up additional employment opportunities.
Employers may also choose to train existing staff where crane operations are becoming a larger part of their work or where projects require operators to hold particular High Risk Work Licence classes.
How Do You Obtain a C6 Licence in NSW?
High Risk Work licences are administered by SafeWork NSW.
Applicants generally undertake the required training through an RTO and must be assessed as competent by an accredited High Risk Work Licence assessor. SafeWork NSW requires applicants for a High Risk Work Licence to be at least 18 years old.
Once you have successfully completed the required training and assessment, you can proceed through the SafeWork NSW licence application process.
High Risk Work licences in NSW are issued for five years before renewal is required.
Why the Correct Crane Licence Matters
Having experience around cranes does not replace the requirement to hold the correct High Risk Work Licence.
SafeWork NSW carries out compliance activity around mobile crane operations and specifically checks whether crane operators and doggers hold the appropriate licence classes for the work they are performing.
For workers, completing the correct training helps ensure you understand both the equipment and your responsibilities.
For employers, checking licence classes before assigning work helps reduce compliance and safety risks.
60t Slew Crane Training in Dubbo
SKIVL provides C6 slewing mobile crane training from its Dubbo training facility for workers across the Central West and wider NSW.
The course is designed for people who need to operate slewing mobile cranes up to 60 tonnes as part of their work and includes the practical training and assessment required for the relevant High Risk Work Licence pathway.
SKIVL also provides Dogging training, making it possible for workers and employers to build the combination of High Risk Work skills required for their workplace.
Choosing the Right Crane Training
Before enrolling, confirm the capacity of the crane you will be operating and the licence requirements that apply to your role.
For workers who need to operate a mobile slewing crane up to 60 tonnes, C6 training provides the pathway towards the appropriate High Risk Work Licence.
Choosing the correct licence class from the beginning helps ensure your training matches the equipment and work you will actually be carrying out.