Traffic Control Jobs in Queensland: What Employers Are Looking For

Traffic controller in high-visibility clothing operating light.

Queensland’s growing investment in infrastructure has created an enormous demand for skilled traffic controllers. With road upgrades, construction projects, and transport improvements happening across Brisbane, the Sunshine Coast, and regional Queensland, there has never been a better time to start a career in traffic control.

Employers across Queensland value more than just the right tickets. They seek traffic controllers who demonstrate initiative, communicate effectively, and prioritize safety. The best candidates are dependable, physically fit, and able to work well with others in fast-paced and sometimes challenging environments. Understanding what these employers expect can help you stand out and build a strong, long-term career in traffic control.

What Does a Traffic Controller Do?

A traffic controller’s primary responsibility is to keep road users, pedestrians, and workers safe around construction and maintenance sites. This involves more than just holding a stop/slow bat.

Typical duties include:

  • Implementing and maintaining traffic management plans
  • Setting up and removing road signs, cones, and barricades
  • Directing vehicle and pedestrian movement around worksites
  • Communicating via two-way radios with other crew members
  • Monitoring road and weather conditions
  • Reporting incidents and ensuring compliance with safety regulations

Traffic controllers work across a variety of environments, including busy city roads and highways, construction zones, mining sites, and event locations. The work can be physically demanding, with early starts and long hours, but it offers excellent pay and job security.

Essential Qualifications for Traffic Control Jobs

Before stepping onto a site, you must complete accredited training and hold the necessary qualifications. Learn more about the Traffic Controller accreditation scheme here. Employers in Queensland typically require the following:

White Card (CPCCWHS1001)

This is the mandatory safety induction for anyone working in the construction industry. It covers workplace health and safety practices and ensures you understand how to identify and manage risks on-site. The White Card can be obtained through a Registered Training Organisation such as Upskills QLD.

Traffic Controller Accreditation (RIIWHS205E)

To legally work as a traffic controller, you need to complete this nationally recognised unit (Traffic Control Ticket), which qualifies you to control traffic using a stop/slow bat. The training involves both classroom and practical components to prepare you for real-world site conditions. Upskills QLD runs regular Traffic Controller courses across Brisbane and regional Queensland.

Traffic Management Implementation (TMI)

Although the Traffic Controller ticket is the minimum requirement, many employers prefer candidates who also hold a TMI qualification. This additional training allows you to set up and implement traffic management plans, giving you greater flexibility and access to a wider range of job opportunities.

Currency of Industry Practice (COIP)

In case you’re applying for a new role, employers also likely want to see that your skills are current. COIP sign-offs or recent on-site work demonstrate that you’ve kept your training up to date and are familiar with current safety procedures and legislation.

What Employers Are Looking For

Employers value professionalism and reliability just as much as qualifications. The following skills and attitudes are highly sought after:

1. Reliability and Punctuality

Traffic control work often starts early and can involve split shifts or remote locations. Turning up on time every day is crucial to maintaining site safety and workflow.

2. Communication Skills

Clear communication with team members, drivers, and site supervisors keeps operations running smoothly. You’ll need to use radios, hand signals, and verbal instructions effectively.

3. Teamwork and Cooperation

Traffic controllers rarely work alone. Being able to work harmoniously with others, from construction crews to supervisors, is vital to ensure everyone’s safety.

4. Attention to Detail

A small mistake can create serious safety hazards. Attention to detail ensures signs are placed correctly and that all safety procedures are followed.

5. Physical Fitness and Stamina

The job requires standing for long periods and working outdoors in all weather conditions. Physical fitness helps you stay alert and effective on the job.

6. Safety Awareness

Traffic controllers must always think ahead. Employers prefer candidates who show initiative and awareness of potential hazards, ensuring compliance with all safety standards

Job Outlook and Career Pathways

The job opportunities outlook for traffic controllers in Queensland is strong. Queensland’s Infrastructure projects such as the Bruce Highway Safety Program, local road upgrades, and new construction developments are generating consistent demand.

Average pay: $30-$45 per hour, depending on experience and location.

Work locations: Brisbane, Sunshine Coast, Hervey Bay, Mackay, Rockhampton, and regional areas.

Career progression: With further training, you can move into Traffic Management Implementation, supervision, or even project coordination roles.

Traffic control can also be a gateway to other civil construction or high-risk work sectors. Many Upskills QLD graduates have advanced into leadership or training positions after gaining experience in the field.

Why Train with Upskills QLD

Upskills QLD is one of the most trusted traffic training providers in the state, known for delivering complete, safety-assured training programs.

  • Over 12 years of industry experience across Queensland
  • Courses delivered by qualified industry trainers with real-world experience
  • Practical, hands-on training tailored to each student
  • Fast course turnaround so you can start work quickly
  • Job placement support through partnerships with leading traffic management companies
  • Bundle White Card + TC + TMI for faster job entry

FAQs About Traffic Control Jobs in Queensland

Q: Do I need experience to become a traffic controller?

No. Many people start with no prior experience. With the right training and attitude, you can begin working within a few weeks of completing your course.

Q: How long does it take to get qualified?

Most people can complete the required training in a few days, followed by supervised practical hours. Once your accreditation is processed, you can start work.

Q: Are traffic control jobs full-time?

Yes, although there are also part-time and casual opportunities. Many projects run day and night shifts, offering flexible hours.

Q: How often do I need to renew my accreditation?

Your Traffic Controller accreditation is valid for three years. To renew, you must meet the Currency of Industry Practice (COIP) requirements and complete refresher training.

Q: What makes Upskills QLD different from other providers?

Upskills QLD provides more than the minimum training required. Every course combines theory with practical learning, ensuring graduates are confident, capable, and ready to work safely.

Start Your Career with Confidence

The demand for qualified traffic controllers in Queensland continues to grow, and with the right training, you can join an industry that values safety, reliability, and teamwork. By gaining your accreditation through Upskills QLD, you’ll be equipped with the skills, knowledge, and confidence employers are looking for.

Ready to get started?

Call 1300 627 681 | Visit upskillsqld.com.au | Email [email protected]

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Ilona Peseta
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left us a 5 star review

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Ilona Peseta
October 22, 2025

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Scott is an excellent traffic control trainer—knowledgeable, experienced, and genuinely committed to our safety. One thing he said that really stuck with me was, “I want everyone to go home.” That line is now ingrained in our minds because it shows just how much he truly cares. He kept the class engaging, clear, and focused on what matters most. Highly recommend his training to anyone in the industry.

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kevin gillespie
October 20, 2025

Great staff very friendly Very good TMI renewal course everything explained to the last detail Thanks again

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Simon Watson
October 12, 2025

Excellent trainer and set-up ✅️

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Nik Wiseman
October 10, 2025

Kristie was fantastic, very accommodating to my situation. Recommended 100%

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Matthew Blackshaw
October 9, 2025

Upskills training provided an easy to understand and thorough training service to renew my Traffic Controllers ticket , Scotty the teacher had a great approach and was easy to understand. I would recommend them to anyone who wants to do a course

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Craig Woodward
September 27, 2025
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Mel Sciacca
September 27, 2025
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Felisa Carey
September 25, 2025

I Completed my TMI course through Upskills KippaRing. The trainer Scott was Efficient, Clear & Helpful. Great Experience Thanks again Scott.

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Nicole Houghton
September 24, 2025

I completed the TMI course through Upskill, and it was an amazing experience, especially thanks to our trainer, Scott! Thank you, Scott, for making the course so efficient and rewarding. Highly recommend!

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Farid Khan
September 24, 2025

Our trainer was JC. Great teacher.

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Mel G
September 24, 2025

Excellent training

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Michael
September 23, 2025

Great teaching from Scott if you doing a traffic control course.

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Igor Tomic
September 22, 2025

Excellent training with John degraph and very good information on the course well done mate i haven't seen you in long time since we worked together it was nice to see you again yesterday we been both working together on numerous location keep up the good work with tmi course will book tc licence you next year

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Kayleigh Maher
September 19, 2025

3 days Traffic Course with Jason Kassulke Jason is amazing, he has presented the course perfectly, with clear information, direction and given grateful care answering our questions clearly and giving us an full understanding to the Career Development within The Traffic Control Industry and how to assist us getting ahead within this industry. A good example of this is I take longer to do my theory, and I came in for the theory with a close to borderline migraine, when I came to Jason and explained this, Jason did what he could to assist easing what he could allowing me the time I needed, checking in not just on me but all of us. Because of Jason's care and attention to all details, knowledge and his understanding I was able to keep up with everyone. I would not hesitate to take further training under Jason's Training

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Sean Semmens
September 18, 2025

I enjoyed studying to get my certificates in TC and TMI it was a great course and very interesting learning how to do that work

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Don Diego
September 18, 2025

Scott gave clear instructions, made sure everyone understood TC, TMI regulations. Knows his stuff !

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Tanya
September 14, 2025

Scott was on point taught all of us at our own level Classroom was enjoyable fun informative and I learned alot The whole experience from Megan in the office to Scotty in the class was awesome so glad I choose Upskill thanks to everyone

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Step6 Madden
September 9, 2025
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Charmaine Jasmin
September 7, 2025

Jason.K from upskill was an amazing trainer! He was so encouraging and shared a lot of his knowledge and experiences during his time working as a TC which helped a lot with visualising what he was teaching verbally. He made learning and fun time would highly recommend studying with upskills if there are more trainers like him 👍

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Christine S
September 6, 2025

Was very thorough teacher, teaching us the traffic control course Jason was energetic vibrant kept us interested in course what we were learning gave us heaps of feedback with all our answers and questions. He kept us busy having a laugh at our common sense things we were all discussing was very good would prefer to do all my courses with him as the teacher so thank u for your valued work Jason appreciated 👏 the final assessment was awesome he's an amazing teacher great having laugh but also seriously teaching us about safety correct procedures and looking out for others as spotters etc thank you Jason Kassulke 😊 😀 appreciated your time and patience with myself and the others.

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Russell Lancaster
September 4, 2025

The trainer Scotty is a really really good trainer explains e erythong in normal terms goes out of his way to make sure you understand everything well do e scott

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Patrick Kelly
September 1, 2025

Highly recommend this training group. All the people on the Office are lovely. Rusty and Michelle are both so helpful and go out of there way to help you. Scotty is an absolute legend. He is very detailed with his teaching. He is obviously very experienced in the industry. Highly recommend to anyone trying to obtain there traffic control ticket. Update: 1.09.2025. Fantastic service by Alana for helping me replace my TMI and White card. Appreciate your help!

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Jeff Geering
August 29, 2025
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Colin Summers
August 25, 2025
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Peter Petho
August 25, 2025
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Chris Long
August 23, 2025

Very experienced trainer, I left the course feeling well prepared to enter the industry

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Zoe Dawes
August 23, 2025

Scott’s informative and straightforward training approach was definitely a plus for me, will be back for any future training, again

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kat alo
August 21, 2025

Change of career for me, and could not ask for a better trainer! Thanks JC for keeping it real! I learnt so much and my confidence has sky-rocketed, thank you Upskills!

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neil peters
August 15, 2025

Awesome place to go , the girls in the office so helpful and trainer Scotty absolutely champion and definitely knows his stuff, making it easier to understand and alot of time for everyone to make sure we all understood everything, thanks guys , highly recommend

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Vedeshwar Tularam
August 14, 2025

I recently completed a White Card training course with Upskills QLD. The course was well-organized, informative, and directly applicable to my work. The instructor had strong expertise in the subject and delivered the content in a clear and easy-to-understand manner. The practical exercises and interactive discussions made it easier to grasp key safety practices in the workplace. I highly recommend Upskills QLD to anyone considering to do a White Card course.

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Scott Zac
August 12, 2025
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Malel John
August 10, 2025
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Dean Jones
August 9, 2025

Was a great course and Jason Kassulke was a great tutor and very knowledgeable on all aspects of the course

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Jett 47
August 7, 2025

Training was on point, the trainer Jase went into details on specific important points in relation to the course, sharing real experiences with everyone to provide understanding of a lot of aspects of different things. The locations chosen for theory and practical trainings were good choices. Class was made to feel welcoming and interesting. Any training I’d do in the future would be with Upskills QLD. 5 stars.

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Joshua Edwards
August 1, 2025

Trainers were very informative and easy to understand

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Darren Burrett
July 28, 2025

Upskills was the place to renew my tmi, great correspondence easy to find great price and Graig our trainer was all over it and explained things very well.

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Wayne Dittmann
July 26, 2025

I was very very impressed with the course itself the criteria and the trainer the trainer himself was very knowledgeable. And very helpful. He just made me feel very relaxed and very positive about my thinking. I would highly recommend up skills to anyone who wanted any industry training that your company has to offer.. Kind Regards Wayne Dittmann 😎😄

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Puli Mafi
July 26, 2025

Very experiences thanks

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Ben Adsett
July 25, 2025
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Nilou Arellano
July 12, 2025
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Daniel Bennett
July 12, 2025
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Chris Steenson
July 12, 2025

Knowledgeable Trainers

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Evelyn Jones
July 10, 2025

Excellent trainer , knowledge very good.

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Tiare Holmes
July 4, 2025

The course was very informative and teacher was very efficient.

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faraz ahmad
June 19, 2025

Upskills people are great, they will get things done quickly and efficiently Jason is a great trainer, will make learning so much fun

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Rick Clarke
June 13, 2025

Great training excellent instructor Scott

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Adam Howard
June 5, 2025
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Adam
June 5, 2025
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Wayne Williams
June 4, 2025

Was as professional as it was enjoyable. No time wasted on unnecessary information. Just straight to the information that matters . We'll worth the time and money .

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BRIAN SHORTER
June 4, 2025

Skilful, friendly and very knowledgeable and is pleasure to listen to.

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Tony Austin
May 29, 2025

Great experience, Trainer was very informative, defiantly would use again

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AJT AVFC
May 17, 2025
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Martin Smith
May 15, 2025
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Ruby Doolan
May 14, 2025

WOW I’m really impressed with UPSKILLS and their team, from day dot the professionalism came through. The ladies on the phone and admin were so helpful and professional my training went smoothly. JC 👏 you know your stuff and made it easy for us all because it doesn’t matter how long you have been a TC or TMI changes happen constantly. Thank you all for your assistance and professionalism and a special thanks to Brian Abrahson you’ve done the hard yards and work very hard to run a great ship. This is my fifth time getting my tickets and I believe it’s the best RTO I’ve been to.

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Peter Stanley
May 14, 2025

The course was easy and very understanding, Especially with an instructor who'll Guide you through step by step,So that you don't feel like you're alone.If I myself can do it, so can you.You won't regret it at all.Upskill is the only way to go.I Recommend them.

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Jup Wellz
May 9, 2025

I recently completed Upskills QLD’s Traffic Management Implementation, Traffic Control and Traffic Control – Practical Assessment Courses, and I couldn’t be more impressed. From start to finish, this training program was exceptionally well-structured, informative, and hands-on, everything I needed to feel confident and competent on site. Firstly, the course materials were comprehensive and up to date. The Traffic Management Implementation module broke down complex regulations into clear, digestible segments, and the Traffic Control course seamlessly built on that foundation, covering every aspect of setting up and managing safe, compliant work zones. Where the practical assessment sessions gave me real-world scenarios to apply what I’d learned. A standout highlight was our instructor, Jason Kassulke. Jason’s expertise in traffic management shone through in every lesson. He explained technical concepts like risk assessments, signage layouts, and communication protocols with clarity and enthusiasm, making sure no one was left behind. Jason fostered an open, supportive classroom environment, patiently answering questions and offering valuable tips from his own on-the-job experience. His real-life narrative and practical demonstrations not only kept the sessions engaging but also cemented my understanding of best practices. Plus, Upskills QLD goes the extra mile by helping you find a company to accrue the mandatory 20 hours of practical experience needed to obtain your traffic control license, so you can finish your training fully eligible to apply immediately. If you’re looking for a provider that combines expert instructors, hands-on learning, and excellent support, look no further than Upskills QLD. Special thanks to Jason Kassulke for making this an outstanding learning experience. I highly recommend these courses to anyone seeking top-tier traffic control training.

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Megan Odgers
May 7, 2025
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Bruno Piutz
April 29, 2025

The trainer was good . Very easy to understand. A nice personality that made everyone comfortable. Explain the course in layman's term which made for easier understanding.

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rythem84
April 29, 2025

Good knowledgeable trainer assessor, made learning enjoyable 👍

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Esei Katoa
April 19, 2025

Very informative teaching by the teacher A+ . Onsite staff were very friendly and welcoming

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Deano m
April 17, 2025

Great trainer, nice little set up there.

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Darren Cini
April 16, 2025

Great trainers who will guide you through the courses.

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Aaron MacLeod
April 13, 2025

The trainer, was great and funny...I enjoyed the class...free coffee was great, too

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Jase
April 11, 2025

I recently completed the Traffic Management Implementation training with Brian at Upskills Qld, and I couldn’t be more impressed. Brian delivered the course with a perfect balance of professionalism, clarity, and practical know-how. His depth of knowledge and real-world experience really stood out, making the content not only easy to understand but also highly applicable on-site. He created a supportive learning environment where questions were encouraged, and every participant felt confident and well-prepared by the end of the training. Brian’s attention to detail and commitment to safety standards were exceptional, and he made sure every aspect of the course was relevant to the current industry requirements. If you’re looking to get certified or upskill in Traffic Management Implementation, I highly recommend Brian and the team at Upskills Qld. A top-notch trainer who genuinely cares about setting his students up for success.

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Mark dahk
April 9, 2025

Excellent well presented course. Easily understood

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Francis Jones
April 8, 2025
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Campbell Karaka
March 24, 2025
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Carol Turner
March 19, 2025

Outstanding !

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Anthony Cancino
March 1, 2025

great classroom environment also i had learn new technical skills.

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Jo Botwright
March 1, 2025

John Degraf made training for my renewal TMI very knowledgeable Hopefully in 3 years time he’s still training

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Chris Maclean
February 27, 2025

Scott was an excellent trainer Covered everything and very knowledgeable Great course

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Adrian Batistuta
February 19, 2025

Upskills is a great place to train. Easy parking, Trainer Scott definitely knows his stuff. He is a huge asset to your business. Keep up the good work, I will certainly return anytime I need any future training. Thank you.

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malcolm vidler
February 18, 2025

Excellent training provider and the staff went beyond and above to help me with all of my questions and the trainer was also five star ⭐ with help during the course 😃 thank you Scotty😃. and all the ladies in the office and Brian.

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Michael Miller
February 16, 2025
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Caleb Lee
February 14, 2025

A huge shoutout to Jason and Scott for being amazing teachers on the TC and TMI course! They were incredibly helpful, answered all my questions with ease, and explained everything so clearly. Their knowledge and guidance made the course a great experience

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Rodney Loftus
February 11, 2025
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Michael Furore
February 7, 2025

I have attended Upskills training programs on a few occasions now. Scott was the instructor. Scott holds a high standard to the industry. His teaching methods are easy if you’re a beginner or experienced in the industry making sure you walk out of the training room confident. I highly recommend the team at Upskills to anyone for their next traffic control training course. Look forward to my next refresher course. Thank you Upskills

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Mathew Galvin
February 6, 2025
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andy thomas
February 4, 2025

Would highly recommend upskills traffic control training The trainer was easy to understand friendly etc 👍

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Jodi Miller
February 4, 2025

Thank you all done for another 3 years 😊

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Rena Ormsby
February 3, 2025

Always trust Upskills QLD with all my training needs. They are the leading training organization in SEQ in my opinion. I recommend Upskills QLD to any TC/TMI that needs their renewal or someone who is looking to get into the industry. Their owner, admin & trainers are accommodating and knowledgeable.

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Isaac Williams
January 23, 2025
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Beau Zeller
January 23, 2025

Jason our trainer was great. The course was well paced & his energy level was the same from start to finish. It made a day in the classroom seem to fly by pretty fast.

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Kyan Skele
January 21, 2025
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Enzo Turco
January 18, 2025

Very thorough , clear and concise.

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Laura Jonker
December 18, 2024

Did my TC and TMI renewal with Jason. Excellent training and was able to answer any questions I had about setups and future training within the industry. Definetly do your training with Jason and upskills.

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SASCHA BLAKE
December 12, 2024

Awesome and clear communication...thumbs up for trainer

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Shane Moore
December 4, 2024
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James
December 4, 2024
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DEO Nirmaan
December 1, 2024
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Mick Flett
November 27, 2024
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Johnathon Stapleton
November 21, 2024
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colin coffey
November 20, 2024