Traffic Control Combo Course: Traffic Controller & Implement TC Plans

If you are considering traffic control work in Sydney, you may have seen employers asking for both Blue and Yellow Cards. These familiar industry names refer to two different types of work: controlling traffic and implementing the traffic management arrangement at a worksite.

The Traffic Control Licences Combo Course brings together Traffic Controller and Implement Traffic Control Plans training. It helps you understand both your individual traffic-control duties and how signs, equipment, people and traffic movements fit together across the site.

This guide explains what the course covers, the NSW training and assessment process, and how to approach employers once you begin developing your skills.

What Is the Traffic Control Combo Course?

The Combo Course combines training for two categories of traffic control work.

Why Complete Both Categories Together?

A traffic control crew needs people who understand how their actions affect the rest of the site. Combining the two areas of training helps connect the person directing traffic with the arrangement that guides vehicles, protects the work area and manages access.

For example, a suitably trained and assessed worker might assist with setting up the nominated scheme, move to an assigned traffic-controller position and later help with pack-up. These duties happen as part of a coordinated crew, with the appropriate instructions and supervision.

Holding both categories can broaden the assignments you are eligible to perform. Employers still consider experience, reliability and site requirements when deciding who will undertake each task.

Step 1: Check Your Entry Requirements and Book

You must be at least 17 years old on the day training begins. The provider must verify your identity before training and final assessment. These requirements come from SafeWork NSW’s training conditions.

Our booking page asks participants to prepare:

• The required 100 points of identification.
• A Unique Student Identifier (USI).
• The ability to understand written information and spoken instructions relevant to the course.

Tell the training team about any learning or practical support you need before attending. Reading a diagram, understanding radio messages and checking measurements are all relevant to the work.

SafeWork NSW lists no course prerequisites for either category, although traffic control experience is recommended for implementer training. Discuss your background with the provider so the pathway suits your needs.

Step 2: Complete the Theory and Practical Training

The Combo Course brings classroom learning and practical activities together. You learn the reasons behind the procedures, then practise applying them with traffic control equipment.

Traffic Controller Skills

The Traffic Controller component develops your understanding of:

• Directing road users with a STOP/SLOW bat.
• Using the relevant portable traffic control devices.
• Choosing the nominated work position and identifying escape routes.
• Communicating clearly with other members of the crew.
• Monitoring queues, visibility and changing road conditions.
• Following instructions for pedestrians, access movements and emergencies.

For example, controllers at opposite ends of a single-lane work area need to coordinate their actions. Clear confirmation is essential; neither person should assume that the other has stopped traffic.

Implementer Skills

The Implement Traffic Control Plans component develops your understanding of:

• Reading the nominated Traffic Guidance Scheme, often called a TGS.
• Comparing the plan with actual road and worksite conditions.
• Identifying hazards and applying the authorised controls.
• Selecting and checking signs and equipment.
• Measuring and checking the placement of traffic control devices.
• Preparing, setting up and programming portable devices.
• Monitoring the arrangement and reporting problems.
• Removing equipment and completing the required records.

A TGS shows how the traffic management arrangement is to be laid out. 

Safety and Communication Across Both Roles

Both parts of the course rely on the same everyday habits: listening during briefings, recognising hazards, confirming instructions, using radios properly and speaking up when something is unsafe or unclear.

The Combo Course page lists units covering workplace safety and communication, STOP/SLOW control, portable-device traffic control, risk management, implementation of plans, and device setup and programming. Your enrolment information identifies the training and assessment you will complete.

Step 3: Receive Your Statement of Completion

After fully completing the initial training, you receive the relevant SafeWork NSW Statement of Completion Certificates (SOCs). This document is valid for 90 days and allows you to commence work immediately. 

Step 4: Complete the Live Assessment

SafeWork NSW’s requirements for the implementer course specify a Live assessment, including practical observation. 

Assessment is your opportunity to demonstrate that you can apply the training safely and consistently. Your Trainer will explain the activities, evidence and standard required. Completion depends on demonstrating competence, rather than attendance alone.

After successfully completing the training and live assessment, your Statement of Attainment Certificate (SOA)  and SafeWork NSW Traffic Control Work Training card will be issued. 

How Long Does the Combo Course Take and What Does It Cost?

1.5 days of training, or 2 days including assessment. 

 

Start Your Traffic Control Training in Sydney

Traffic Control Licences focuses on training for the traffic control industry. Our Combo Course connects practical equipment activities with the responsibilities encountered on Sydney worksites, helping participants understand both traffic-controller duties and site implementation.

Explore training options in Marrickville and Blacktown, and check the booking page for current dates, venue details and availability.

View Combo Course dates and book your place

Already hold one category? Explore our Implement Traffic Control Plans course or view all training options.

For more advice about entering the industry, read How to Become a Traffic Controller in Sydney NSW.