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How To Become An Arborist

Arborclimb • September 17, 2021

Arborists are tree doctors who have a specialised skill set, which allows them to tend to and plant trees and examine them for any problems. These include structural issues, nutritional deficits, or underlying diseases.

To be able to maintain different tree species, arborists need to obtain certain qualifications that prove they are competent in the field.

Here are some tips on how to become an arborist.

1. Gain relevant education

Arborists in Australia need a certified qualification in order to operate legally. These qualification requirements vary according to the state, so be sure to look up the specific terms relating to your area.

The first step to certification is ensuring that you have the relevant education. The Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF) offers various professional programmes on arboricultural training.

These programmes allow you to achieve an AQF Level 3 (Certificate III) in horticulture or arboriculture and are essential for employers. This is because they teach you fundamental practices, such as:

  • Implementing biosecurity measures
  • Tree maintenance and pruning
  • Installing irrigation systems
  • Traffic management
  • Aerial rigging
  • Aerial rescue
  • Complex tree climbing
  • Preparing and applying chemicals
  • Power source safety

Some individuals choose to obtain a bachelor’s degree in a relevant subject before applying to qualified courses or seeking out research positions.

2. Find a training organisation

Once you’re qualified for the job, it’s time to increase your career opportunities with practical training. There are several registered training organisations (RTOs) in Australia that can help with certification.

These are location specific and include:

  • Melbourne Polytechnic
  • ArborTrim Australia
  • TAFE Queensland
  • Horticultural Training Pty Ltd
  • TAFE NSW

3. Register with an industry body

Industry bodies provide individuals with a range of associated services, including support and training resources, and information and programs that ensure you meet arborist standards.

Arboriculture Australia is one example of a national industry body that aims to help individuals in the field through a number of initiatives. The International Society of Aboriculture (ISA) and Queensalnd Aboricultural Associaton Inc. are other examples.

4. Get licensed

The Australian Arborist Industry License is a newly launched accreditation that recognises qualified arborists. This licence allows employers to confirm that you’re a qualified arborist and boost your career opportunities.

Professional arborists will be required to present this licence in the future, so this is a mandatory accreditation for prospective arborists. Other recommended licences include a high risk (Class WP) licence and a manual car or MR truck licence.

5. Understand accepted practices

Understanding arborist practices comes with the training and licensure already outlined. However, it’s important that you keep these accepted practices in mind when entering the job as one wrong move could prove fatal to your career.

Be sure to avoid practices that violate these standards too, such as using climbing spikes on trees, topping a tree, or removing trees without probable cause.

If you take these steps to become an arborist, you’ll develop all the right skills necessary for the job. Arborclimb is a professional arboricultural company that is currently hiring arborists in Sunshine Coast, Queensland.

For more information , don’t hesitate to call us on 0417 127 267 or email info@arborclimb.com.au . Alternatively, you can begin the application process  through our website.

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