If you’ve been working in Queensland in a skilled trade for years but don’t have the formal paperwork to prove it, you’re not alone. Thousands of tradies are in the same situation – capable, experienced, and skilled, but without a qualification to match. The reality is that without a recognised qualification, you may be missing out on opportunities such as better-paying jobs, licensing, and even skilled migration options.
That’s where Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) comes in. RPL is the process of taking the skills you already have and converting them into a nationally recognised qualification. It’s designed for experienced workers who don’t want to sit in a classroom to relearn what they already know. Instead, your experience on the job is assessed and matched to the requirements of the qualification.
Why a Trade Certificate in Queensland Matters
In Queensland, many trades require you to hold a trade certificate or qualification to meet licensing regulations. Without one, you may find yourself limited to smaller jobs or working under another licensed tradie. With a qualification, you can:
- Apply for trade licences in Queensland
- Access higher-paying jobs with more responsibility
- Strengthen your eligibility for skilled migration programs
- Show proof of your capabilities to clients and employers
How RPL Works
The RPL process is straightforward. At Gimbal Group, you provide evidence of your skills – things like references, work samples, photos of completed projects, or employment records. An assessor then reviews your evidence against the qualification requirements. If you meet the criteria, you’re awarded the qualification without needing to complete classroom training.
For example, if you’ve been tiling in Brisbane for 10 years but never did an apprenticeship, you could complete the Certificate III in Wall and Floor Tiling (CPC31320) through RPL. The same applies to trades like, Certificate III in Cabinet Making and Timber Technology, Certificate III in Painting and Decorating (CPC30620), or engineering qualifications such as the Certificate III in Engineering – Mechanical Trade (MEM30219) and the Certificate III in Engineering – Fabrication Trade (MEM31922).
The Benefits of RPL
The main advantage of RPL is speed. Instead of spending years in training, you can often complete the process in a matter of weeks. Other benefits include:
- No downtime from work
- Recognition of your years of experience
- A nationally recognised qualification that opens doors across Australia
Getting Started with Gimbal Group
Gimbal Group specialises in RPL for a wide range of trades. If you’re looking to secure your trade certificate in Queensland, we can guide you through the process from start to finish. Whether you’re in construction, engineering, or cabinet making, we’ll help you get the recognition you deserve.
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