98%
of students would recommend our training to others.
Source: OTJ Training ASQA Learner Survey 2024
98%
of students said that the training prepared them well for work.
Source: OTJ Training ASQA Learner Survey 2024
Small classes • Eight cranes • CSQ funding available • Weekly Intakes • Day & night options
CPCCLDG3001 – Licence to Perform Dogging
DG
Dogman / Dogger
$95,000–$105,000 pa, $40-45 an hour*
| Item | Full Price | CSQ Co-contribution² | CSQ Admin Fee |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dogman Ticket (DG) | $1,595 | $500 | $50 |
Dogging is where most lifting careers begin. This nationally recognised unit, CPCCLDG3001 – Licence to perform dogging, covers the skills and knowledge required to safely sling loads, direct crane movements and communicate effectively on construction and industrial worksites.
Doggers play a vital role in every crane lift. Making sure loads are secured correctly, movement is controlled, and everyone stays safe. Training is delivered at OTJT’s purpose-built Stapylton yard by experienced industry trainers using real loads, cranes and lifting gear, so you’ll gain the confidence to operate safely from day one.
How to plan and prepare for dogging tasks; interpret lift plans, identify hazards and confirm lifting requirements.
How to select, inspect and use lifting equipment, including slings, chains, shackles and spreader bars.
How to determine load weight and centre of gravity, and choose the right slinging method for each job.
How to apply correct signals to guide crane operators safely and accurately.
How to communicate clearly and effectively using standard hand, whistle and radio signals.
How to implement risk controls and respond to hazards, including working near powerlines, unstable loads and changing weather conditions.
How to complete post-operation checks, store equipment, and report faults or incidents in line with workplace procedures.
Accurate pre-task planning and hazard identification.
Safe use of a variety of lifting gear for different load types.
Clear and consistent signalling to crane operators.
Understanding of WHS obligations, load calculations and emergency procedures.
Compliance with site procedures and manufacturer specifications throughout all lifts.
Successful participants who meet all Elements and Performance Criteria, and demonstrate the required Knowledge and Performance Evidence, will receive a Statement of Attainment for CPCCLDG3001 – Licence to perform dogging.
This confirms you’ve been trained and assessed as competent in the unit of competency. You’ll then complete a separate licensing assessment under the National Assessment Instruments (NAI) with a SafeWork Queensland approved assessor.
Once both are successfully completed, you can apply to Workplace Health and Safety Queensland for your High Risk Work Licence (DG – dogging).
^Optional pre-course learning lets you access your training materials early, along with extra support resources like videos, podcasts and step-by-step tutorials, so you can get ahead and spend more time on-site building practical skills and preparing for your licence assessments.
According to Seek data as of Nov 2025, the mining, resource and energy sectors are offering the highest wages for Dogmen, with the most opportunity available in the Trade Services sectors, with construction 3rd on the list.
A DG licence is a common starting point for workers who want to progress into rigging or crane operation. For a detailed breakdown of job opportunities, salary expectations and licence pathways, read our guide on how to become a dogman. You can also view our basic rigging course when you are ready to explore the next licence level. (Internal links: ‘how to become a dogman’ and ‘basic rigging course’ – primary placements.)
The lifting game isn’t just about playing with big-boy toys or moving heavy stuff. It’s about teamwork, problem-solving and turning big plans into iconic landmarks. From bridges and stadiums to tower builds and shutdowns, lifting crews are the ones making the big things happen.
Safely, precisely and with a bit of banter along the way.
OTJT founder Matt Nolan started out as a delivery driver before stepping into dogging, then into the seat of mobile and tower cranes.
So what hooked him, line and sinker?
The engineering brilliance of the machines, and the deep satisfaction of being part of something bigger than yourself. He’d never read a book in his life until he found himself reading crane manuals cover to cover.
Ask him now, and he’ll tell you it’s the problem-solving that keeps it interesting. Every lift is different. You’ve got to think on your feet, work closely with your dogger and riggers, and figure out the best way to make it happen.
“There’s no script. Just trust, skill and teamwork.” – Matt Nolan
In South East Queensland, the lifting industry is booming. From the 2032 Brisbane Olympics and renewable energy builds to hospitals, tunnels and high-rise developments, there’s steady work for licensed operators who know their stuff.
If you’re looking for a career that’s hands-on, in demand and genuinely satisfying, this could be it. You won’t just be working with cranes. You’ll be part of the crew that helps build the civil infrastructure for future generations or stadiums that find their place in Olympic history.
“The lifting game is what we love, and we just want to keep on doing it. How do we do that? By training the next generation into in-demand operators through quality training.” – Matt Nolan, OTJ Training founder
1st Day – Welcome!
After a site induction, you’ll learn the fundamentals of mobile crane operating, covering the theory and practical elements of the course. All students have the option to complete the theoretical learning online via e-learning from the moment they are enrolled before course commencement, but is not mandatory.
2nd-3rd Days – Put it into practice!
With the guidance of the training team, your new knowledge and practical skills will be honed and you’ll complete the unit of competency phase in a portfolio of work.
4th Day – Competent? Time for the NAI’s!
Once you’ve achieved competence in the unit, you will prepare and begin the knowledge, calculation and practical tasks as part of the national assessment instruments (NAI’s). Please note you need to successfully complete the knowledge and calculation assessments before moving on to the practical tasks.
5th Day – Assessments Continue!
Once you’ve successfully completed all the NAI’s, you’ll receive a Candidate Assessment Summary (CAS) from your assessor and can then apply for a DG class high-risk work licence (HRWL) from Workplace Health & Safety Queensland. Use this CAS as proof of your successful assessment until your HRWL arrives in the post.
Reassessments:
Should the participant not achieve competence in any of the NAIs, then they will be entitled to no more than one reassessment with no charge. At the RTO’s discretion, any additional reassessments will incur further fees of $250 each, including charges for retraining of $500 if required.
Please use this course structure as a guide. Many factors can influence course timings, such as the size of the group, weather conditions or a student’s time to achieve competence in the unit.
As part of the new Standards for RTOs 2025, all new students must complete a quick LLND (Language, Literacy, Numeracy and Digital) Skills Check before we can confirm enrolment.
It’s not a test, and there’s no pass or fail. It simply helps us understand how best to support the learner before training begins. It only takes around 10 minutes to complete and can be done on any device, including a mobile phone.
The table below summarises the level of the Australian Core Skills Framework (ASCF)* (and DigComp) required for this course.
Learning | Reading | Writing | Oral Communication | Numeracy | Digital Literacy |
ACSF 2 | ACSF 2 | ACSF 2 | ACSF 2 | ACSF 3 | DigComp A2 |
We hear that. Our experience is that students often find the numeracy component a challenging part of this course and HRWL courses in general.
If numeracy is a challenge for you, then we suggest you get started with the trainer video tutorials that walk you through some calculations you’ll need to learn related to load chart and pad sizing calculations. You’ll be sent a link to our ‘Training Tid Bits’ portal as soon as you’re enrolled so you can get ahead before you start training on site.
Check out our FAQ’s on this page below for some more info about our learning resources designed to set up all students for success, regardless of their capabilities, or find our Student Support Policy here.
For more information about the ACSF visit the DEWR website: https://www.dewr.gov.au/skills-information-training-providers/australian-core-skills-framework
CSQ
Bert Training Fund
Should the participant not achieve competence in any of the NAIs, then they will be entitled to no more than one reassessment with no charge. At the RTO’s discretion, any additional reassessments will incur further fees of $250 each, including charges for retraining of $500 if required.
Please use this course structure as a guide. Many factors can influence course timings, such as the size of the group, weather conditions or a student’s time to achieve competence in the unit.
Small Training Provider of the Year
Small Training Provider of the Year
for eligible QLD construction workers
in addition to max time in the seat. Real skills, real fun.
means personalised coaching.
and night classes every 4 weeks—fits your schedule.
including a 101t crawler, 25 t truck crane, 14 t Franna, telehandler and 2 tower cranes for hands‑on training.
midway Brisbane ↔ Gold Coast—easy access.
online theory access as soon as you enrol
day, night, or multi-week delivery
leave your days free to keep earning and the boss happy
plus VR, videos, podcasts and real hands-on practical training
of students would recommend our training to others.
Source: OTJ Training ASQA Learner Survey 2024
of students said that the training prepared them well for work.
Source: OTJ Training ASQA Learner Survey 2024
Training is conducted at our training yard’s central SEQ location in Stapylton – Yatala North exit off the M1.
We regularly train students from across Brisbane South, Logan and the Gold Coast, including:
No matter where you’re coming from, Stapylton is a central, easy-to-access location for dogging training across South East Queensland.
A Dogman Ticket is the common name for a DG class High Risk Work Licence (HRWL) issued by Workplace Health and Safety Queensland. It is the licence required to perform dogging work on construction sites, in mining, at ports, and across other industries where loads are lifted by cranes or other plant.
To get a Dogman Ticket, you complete the nationally recognised unit of competency CPCCLDG3001 – Licence to Perform Dogging, then complete a licensing assessment to gain a DG class high-risk work licence. This covers how to safely sling loads, select and inspect lifting gear, calculate load weights, and direct crane operators using hand signals, whistle signals, and radio communication.
You may also hear it called a Dogging Licence, Dogging Ticket, or DG Licence – they all refer to the same qualification. A dogger (or dogman, dogperson, or signalman in other countries) is the person on the ground responsible for preparing loads for lifting and guiding the crane operator through every movement. Licensed doggers are required for lifting work that involves selecting or inspecting lifting gear, slinging loads, or directing a crane operator when the load is outside the operator’s view.
Dogging is the entry point for most lifting careers. Once you hold your DG licence, you can progress into basic rigging, intermediate rigging, advanced rigging, or crane operation. Many of Australia’s most experienced crane operators started out as doggers.
The full price for OTJT’s Dogman Ticket (DG) course is $1,595. Eligible students accessing CSQ funding pay a $500 co-contribution plus a $50 CSQ administration fee. BERT members may also be able to access BERT Training Funding to help with their out-of-pocket cost.
A $100 transferable, non-refundable deposit secures your booking and is deducted from the final course cost. The remaining balance must be paid before your course start date.
No, but they work closely together. A Dogman (DG) slings loads, selects lifting gear, and directs the crane operator during lifts. A Rigger (RB/RI/RA) moves structural steel members, installs plant and equipment, and works at progressively more complex levels.
You need your DG licence before you can progress to a Basic Rigging (RB) licence. Think of dogging as the entry point into the broader rigging and lifting trade.
A licensed dogman can sling loads for crane lifts, inspect and select lifting gear (slings, chains, shackles, spreader bars), calculate load weights and centre of gravity, and direct crane operators using standard signals. Licensed doggers are required for lifting work that involves selecting or inspecting lifting gear, slinging loads, or directing a crane operator when the load is outside the operator’s view.
Doggers work across construction, civil infrastructure, mining, ports, manufacturing, renewable energy projects, and event staging.
While a Licence to Perform Dogging (DG) qualifies you to select lifting gear, apply slinging techniques, and direct a crane operator, it does not allow you to perform work that involves structural stability or mechanical load-shifting assembly.
To legally carry out the following tasks, you must hold a High Risk Work Rigging Licence (Basic, Intermediate, or Advanced):
(Note for students: Completing your Dogging ticket is a mandatory prerequisite before you can enrol in a Basic Rigging (RB) course!)
The course runs over 4-5 days of training and assessment (day classes, Mon-Fri, typically 6:30 am – 3 pm). Night classes run every 3 weeks, Mon-Fri 3:30 pm – 9:30 pm.
Optional pre-course online learning is available from the moment you enrol so you can get ahead before your first day on site. If you are a FIFO or shift worker, call us on 07 3807 6061 and we can develop a flexible plan together.
The dogging licensing assessment has two parts:
Knowledge & Calculations: A closed-book knowledge test covering WHS obligations, load calculations, and emergency procedures, and a practical assessment where you complete five supervised lifts.
Practical: You will need to demonstrate safe gear inspection, correct slinging methods, accurate hand and whistle signals, and clear communication with the crane operator. The training days give you opportunities to practise these skills and prepare to demonstrate the required knowledge and practical competence during assessment.
You will learn load chart calculations and pad sizing calculations as part of the course. These involve basic multiplication, division, and working with weights and measurements.
If maths is not your strong point, you are not alone!
It is one of the most common concerns students have. OTJT provides trainer-led video tutorials that walk you through the calculations step by step, and you can access these from the moment you enrol through our Training Tid Bits portal.
A DG licence can support applications for work involving crane lifts across construction, civil infrastructure and other industries. Employment depends on the role, the employer’s requirements, your experience and the licences you hold. The licence can also provide a pathway into further qualifications, including the RB rigging licence course.
Employers often contact us looking for individuals who are keen to get into the lifting game or seasoned pros, so talk to any of the OTJT staff or checkout our employment noticeboard while training with us.
Absolutely not. Obtaining a dogging ticket (DG licence) is the entry point for lifting careers. Our course is designed for people with no prior experience in dogging or rigging. Whether you are a labourer, a career changer, or someone entering the construction industry for the first time, you will learn everything from scratch with experienced trainers.
Yes. Night courses run every 3 weeks, Mon-Fri 3:30 pm – 9:30 pm.
Night training is a suitable option if you are time poor or cannot get time off work, because you can keep earning during the day.
It is worth being upfront though: the sessions are shorter, so you need to allow your own time to study outside class, and fatigue is a real factor when you are working and training at the same time. If you are new to the industry, a day course may give you a stronger start.
Sometimes night training mixed with days has been an ideal balance for previous students, so call us on 07 3807 6061 and we can develop a course plan that works around you.
Construction, civil infrastructure, trade services including shutdowns, transport and logistics, energy and renewable energy, mining, ports, manufacturing, entertainment and event staging.
The mining, resources and energy sectors typically offer the highest wages for doggers or projects based in remote locations.
OTJT has weekly intakes and schedules night courses every 3 weeks. Call us on 07 3807 6061 and we will do everything we can to accommodate your preferred start date, including last-minute requests.
*SEEK Data, Nov25
^Optional pre-course learning available to help you prepare before attending the course.
+Includes a Saturday morning to complete assessments.
Ask us a question or request a chat with our friendly team on
07 38076061 or complete the form to enquire about your study options.
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