Civil Safety
Course - RII20720

Certificate II in Civil Construction

Civil Safety

Build the foundations for a career in civil construction

The Certificate II in Civil Construction (RII20720) lays the essential groundwork for anyone looking to begin a career in the civil construction industry - the sector responsible for designing, building, and maintaining Australia’s vital infrastructure, including roads, bridges, tunnels, pipelines, and public facilities.

This nationally recognised qualification provides you with the skills and knowledge to work safely and effectively on-site - from using hand and power tools and operating small plant and equipment, to carrying out basic excavation and concreting tasks and following workplace health and safety procedures. Whether you’re just starting out or seeking to formalise your on-site experience, this course sets you up for a long-term career in civil construction.

On successful completion of this course, you'll be awarded:

  • RII20720 - Certificate II in Civil Construction

Course Delivery

Face-to-Face

Course Duration

3-6 months

Nationally Recognised
Nationally Recognised Statement of Attainment
Locations

17+ training centres across Queensland and Western Australia

Course Fee

Fees vary depending on location (see table below)

Afterpay available

Funding

Career Start funding available (QLD) - $30 or $50 only if eligible

Certificate II in Civil Construction - Course Information

The Certificate II in Civil Construction (RII20720) gives you the practical skills, knowledge, and confidence to start a career in the construction and infrastructure industries. This qualification is ideal for those looking to work on major civil projects such as roads, bridges, tunnels, pipelines, and public works.

You’ll learn how to:

  • Work safely and effectively on civil construction sites

  • Operate hand and power tools used in construction tasks

  • Carry out basic earthworks, excavation, and trenching activities

  • Assist with concreting, drainage, and pipe laying operations

  • Interpret and follow site plans, drawings, and specifications

  • Identify and control workplace hazards in line with WHS requirements

  • Communicate clearly and work productively as part of a team

  • Apply problem-solving and planning skills to complete daily site tasks safely and efficiently

Training focuses on real-world, hands-on experience with a strong emphasis on safety and building confidence  - preparing you for entry-level roles in civil construction, mining, or road maintenance projects across Australia.

Course Delivery and Assessment

The Certificate II in Civil Construction is delivered face-to-face, providing a practical and engaging learning experience that prepares you for entry-level roles in the civil construction industry. Under the guidance of experienced trainers, you’ll take part in hands-on training activities that reflect real workplace conditions across civil infrastructure projects. You have 12 months to complete the course.

Assessment is competency-based, meaning you’ll be evaluated on your ability to perform tasks and apply knowledge in realistic workplace scenarios. This includes:

  • Practical demonstrations of civil construction skills and safe work practices

  • Observation of tasks in simulated or real work environments

  • Written assessments to confirm your understanding of key concepts

This practical training approach ensures you gain both the knowledge and hands-on experience needed to work safely and effectively on civil construction sites, while building a strong foundation for further training and employment opportunities in the industry.

What You’ll Study

The Certificate II in Civil Construction is a nationally recognised qualification under the Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF). On successful completion, you’ll receive a Statement of Attainment for the following 16 accredited units of competency.

Core Units (10)

  • RIIBEF201E - Plan and organise work

  • RIICCM201E - Carry out measurements and calculations

  • RIICCM202E - Identify, locate and protect underground services

  • RIICCM203E - Read and interpret plans and job specifications

  • RIICCM205F - Carry out manual excavation

  • RIICCM207E - Spread and compact materials manually

  • RIICOM201E - Communicate in the workplace

  • RIISAM203E - Use hand and power tools

  • RIISAM204E - Operate small plant and equipment

  • RIIWHS201E - Work safely and follow WHS policies and procedures

Elective Units (Select 6)

  • CPCCWHS2001 - Apply WHS requirements, policies and procedures in construction

  • RIICCM206E - Support plant operations

  • RIICCM208E - Carry out basic levelling

  • RIICCM209E - Carry out concrete work

  • RIICRC208E - Lay pipes

  • RIISAM201E - Handle resources and infrastructure materials and safely dispose of non-toxic materials

  • RIIWMG203E - Drain and dewater civil construction sites

Elective units to be confirmed at time of enrolment.

*Elective units may change depending on delivery location and individual requirements

Who Should Complete This Course?

The Certificate II in Civil Construction is designed for individuals looking to start a career in the civil construction and infrastructure industry, with a strong focus on practical, hands-on skills.

This course is suitable for:

  • School leavers wanting an entry point into civil construction, roadworks, or infrastructure projects

  • Job seekers seeking practical skills for entry-level roles in the civil construction industry

  • Individuals interested in working on roads, earthworks, and major infrastructure projects

  • Workers from other industries looking to transition into civil construction

  • People aiming to start a pathway toward apprenticeships or further qualifications in civil or construction trades

  • Those wanting to build confidence using tools, machinery, and basic civil construction techniques

No prior experience is required. This qualification provides a strong foundation for entry-level roles such as labouring, plant operations support, and civil site assistance, while also opening pathways into further training and apprenticeships in the civil construction sector.

Course Outcome

Upon successful completion of this course, you will be awarded:

  • RII20720 - Certificate II in Civil Construction

This certification is nationally recognised under the Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF).

Career Pathways

Graduates of this course can pursue entry-level roles or further study, leading to careers such as:

  • Civil construction labourer - assisting with roads, bridges, pipelines, and general infrastructure projects

  • Construction site worker - supporting daily site operations and practical construction tasks

  • Pipe layer assistant - helping install and maintain pipe networks for civil projects

  • Road construction worker - assisting with road building, maintenance, and resurfacing tasks

  • Plant operator assistant - supporting the operation of small machinery and equipment on-site

Entry Requirements

There are no formal entry requirements for this course, however students will need:

  • Basic computer skills and internet access (for enrolment and online modules)

  • Adequate language, literacy, and numeracy (LLN) skills to complete assessments, and;

  • A valid Unique Student Identifier (USI) - mandatory for all nationally recognised training. If you don't already have a USI, you can apply for one online at www.usi.gov.au or we can apply for one for you.

Support When You Need It

Throughout the duration of your course, you can access experienced industry professionals and support staff to guide you through the program. Our trainers are dedicated to helping you succeed and will be available to answer your questions and provide feedback on your progress. They will provide you with the guidance and support you need to fully understand the course material, as well as offer suggestions for further learning opportunities.

Funding is Available For this Course

VETiS (Vocational Education and Training in Schools)

This course is approved under Career Start, the Queensland Government’s training initiative replacing the Certificate III Guarantee (effective 1 July 2025). Career Start provides eligible Queenslanders with government-subsidised training to help them begin a Certificate III qualification, and potentially an apprenticeship or traineeship, selected from priority or emerging industries. Check your eligibility or contact us for more information.

Career Start Fees for eligible students are:

Concessional Student - $30.00
Non-Concessional Student - $50.00

"This course gave me the skills I needed to get started in the industry and opened the door to my first full-time job in civil construction."
David

Course FAQs

How much does the Certificate II in Civil Construction (RII20720) Course cost?

The Certificate II in Civil Construction (RII20720) course fee varies across locations. Please contact us for more information.

Is funding available for the Certificate II in Civil Construction (RII20720) Course?

The Certificate II in Civil Construction (RII20720) course is approved under Career Start, the Queensland Government’s training initiative replacing the Certificate III Guarantee (effective 1 July 2025). Career Start provides eligible Queenslanders with government-subsidised training to help them begin a Certificate III qualification, and potentially an apprenticeship or traineeship, selected from priority or emerging industries. You may also be eligible for Construction Skills Queensland (CSQ) funding. Please view our funding page for more information.

How long does it take to complete the Certificate II in Civil Construction (RII20720) Course?

The Certificate II in Civil Construction course takes approximately 3-6 months to complete. You will be required to complete online learning modules and attend face-to-face training for the practical assessments.


Are there any entry requirements for the Certificate II in Civil Construction (RII20720) Course?

There are no formal entry requirements. However, students will need:

  • Basic computer skills and internet access (for enrolment and communication)

  • Sufficient language, literacy, and numeracy (LLN) skills to complete assessments

  • A valid Unique Student Identifier (USI). If you don’t have one, you can apply at usi.gov.au or we can assist.

When will I receive my Statement of Attainment (SOA)?

Your SOA will be issued within 3-5 business days of successfully completing the course and receiving payment.

Have Questions?

Our friendly support team is here to help. Contact us for course advice, enrolment support, or guidance during your training.

1300 248 457 or email info@civilsafety.edu.au

Have Questions?

Our friendly support team is here to help. Whether you need course advice, enrolment support, or guidance during your training, we’re only a call or message away.

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