From November 2024, landscape construction is officially recognised as a trade in South Australia, marking a major step forward for the industry.
This shift highlights the expertise and evolving skills needed in the sector, including the growing requirement for landscaping workers to acquire building and contractor licences to undertake work.
To support this, the Certificate III in Landscape Construction will be delivered as an apprenticeship rather than a traineeship. In addition, to provide pathways for career progression, the Skills Commission has endorsed two formal traineeships — a Certificate IV and Diploma of Landscape Construction Management. The courses will also attract Skills SA training subsidies for new entrants.
The Jobs and Skills Australia Occupation Shortage List currently includes landscape gardeners with the combined skillset of planning and construction. This signifies a critical need within the state, and it is anticipated that recognition of ‘landscape construction tradesperson’ as a trade will help fill this gap, while also allowing for greater consistency and mobility across Australia.
According to South Australian Business Chamber member Luke Timmins, co-owner of Adelaide Hills Lawns & Gardens, “Careers in landscape construction involve a wide range of work requiring so many different skills plus the opportunity to specialise.”
“In a highly competitive workforce market, recognising landscape construction as a trade will definitely raise the esteem and professionalism associated with the landscaping industry. Backed with the credentials and pathways that will be provided by Registered Training Organisations, this is a great incentive for those coming into and remaining in the industry.”
This achievement also demonstrates the importance of advocacy and how industry can work in partnership with government thanks to the extensive efforts of the Master Landscapers of South Australia in collaboration with the South Australian Skills Commission and the Department of State Development.
Recognising landscaping as a trade is a huge win for the industry, offering businesses a chance to elevate their services, attract skilled talent, and build long-term surety for their workforce and businesses.
