Which Electrical Contractor Course Is Right for You?
If you're ready to take the next step in your electrical career, becoming a licensed electrical contractor is a smart move. An electrical contractor is a licensed person or business that can legally offer and carry out electrical work for clients. But with several training options available in Western Australia, how do you know which one is right for you?
In this guide, we'll break down the three types of electrical contractor training offered by the College of Electrical Training (CET), explain their differences, who they're designed for, and the pros and cons of each path.
What Is Electrical Contractor Training?
In Western Australia, anyone who wants to legally contract for electrical work must hold an Electrical Contractor Licence issued by Building and Energy WA. This licence ensures you have the necessary technical, legal, and business knowledge to operate safely and in full compliance with regulations. To enrol in any of the contractor training courses, you’ll need to already hold an unrestricted electrical licence. Whether you're planning to start your own electrical business or take on responsibility for compliance within a company, this training is a key step toward becoming a licensed contractor.
The CET offers three specialised training courses to meet the requirements of different licence applicants:
- Full Electrical Contractor Training Course
- Electrical Contractor Training – Nominees
- Electrical Contractor Training – Business
Each course is tailored to the specific responsibilities and obligations of contractor roles.
1. Full Electrical Contractor Training Course
Best suited for: Individuals applying for both the Nominee and Business component of the Electrical Contractor Licence.
The Full Electrical Contractor Training Course is a comprehensive program that meets all the requirements to become a licensed electrical contractor in WA. It combines both the technical and business competencies required under regulation.
What's covered?
- Electrical contracting legislation and obligations
- Business management and financial planning
- Safe work practices and WHS systems
- Quoting, risk management, and tendering
Pros:
- Complete qualification in one program
- Ideal for sole traders or business owners managing everything themselves
- Meets all requirements for Electrical Contractor Licence
Cons:
- Longer and more intensive than the other two options
- Higher upfront cost and time commitment
Electrical Contractor Training (Full Course)
2. Electrical Contractor Training – Nominees
Best suited for: Licensed electricians aiming to become the technical nominee for a business that holds an Electrical Contractor Licence.
The Nominee Course focuses on the technical and legal responsibilities of the nominee—the person responsible for ensuring all electrical work complies with safety and regulatory requirements.
What's covered?
- Electrical licensing regulations and legislation
- Technical compliance obligations
- Occupational safety, risk management, and auditing procedures
Pros:
- Shorter than the full course
- Fulfils the nominee requirement for an Electrical Contractor Licence
- Great for employees wanting to step into more responsibility
Cons:
- Doesn’t cover business management or financial planning
- Not sufficient for those looking to start their own business
Electrical Contractor Training (Nominees)
3. Electrical Contractor Training – Business
Best suited for: Business owners or managers who want to handle the business side of an electrical contracting company, but will appoint a separate nominee for technical compliance.
The Business Course is designed to meet the business competency requirements of the Electrical Contractor Licence.
What's covered?
- Business and financial management
- Workplace health and safety systems
- Quoting, contracting, and operational planning
Pros:
- Targeted for those who aren’t electricians but still want to run a contracting business
- Ideal for partnership structures where someone else acts as the nominee
Cons:
- Does not cover the technical compliance component
- Requires coordination with a qualified nominee to fulfil full licence obligations
Electrical Contractor Training (Business)
Choosing the Right Path: Which Course Should You Take?
Here’s a quick guide to help you choose:
| I want to run an electrical business and oversee the technical side | Full Course |
| I work for a company and want to become a technical nominee | Nominee Course |
| I want to run the business side only and hire someone else to be a nominee | Business Course |
Final Thoughts
Whether you're a seasoned sparky ready to go out on your own, or a business-savvy entrepreneur entering the electrical industry, there's a course at CET that will meet your needs. All CET contractor training is nationally accredited and aligned with WA licensing requirements, so you’ll be well-prepared to take the next step.
Still unsure which path to choose? The CET team is happy to help.
Reach out for personalised advice and get one step closer to your electrical contractor licence in WA.
