Guides & resources
Clear, practical answers to the questions we hear most — across first aid, RSA & RCG, White Card and more.
How often do you need to renew your first aid certificate in Australia?
In Australia, refresh your CPR every 12 months and your first aid certificate every 3 years. Here's what that means and how to renew.
Read guideCPR vs First Aid vs Childcare First Aid: which course do you need?
A plain-English guide to choosing between HLTAID009 CPR, HLTAID011 Provide First Aid and HLTAID012 Childcare First Aid.
Read guideDRSABCD: the first aid action plan explained
DRSABCD is the step-by-step first aid action plan — Danger, Response, Send for help, Airway, Breathing, CPR, Defibrillation.
Read guideIs your first aid certificate nationally recognised? (USI explained)
What 'nationally recognised' means, why your certificate works Australia-wide and the free USI you need to be issued it.
Read guideHow to perform CPR (adults, children and infants)
A step-by-step guide to CPR following Australian Resuscitation Council guidelines — 30 compressions to 2 breaths, at 100–120 per minute.
Read guideFirst aid for choking: what to do
How to help a choking adult, child or infant using back blows and chest thrusts, following Australian Resuscitation Council guidance.
Read guideAnaphylaxis first aid: how to use an EpiPen
Recognise anaphylaxis and respond — lay the person flat, give adrenaline (EpiPen) into the outer mid-thigh and call Triple Zero (000).
Read guideHow to use a defibrillator (AED)
Using an AED is simple — turn it on and follow the voice prompts. Here's what to expect, step by step.
Read guideSnake bite first aid in Australia
The pressure immobilisation technique for snake bite — bandage firmly, immobilise the limb, keep still and call Triple Zero (000).
Read guideAsthma first aid: the 4x4x4 plan
The asthma first aid plan — sit the person upright and give 4 puffs of a blue reliever, wait 4 minutes, repeat and call 000 if no improvement.
Read guideDo I need a first aid certificate for work?
Many Australian jobs require first aid or CPR. Here's how to tell what you need and where workplace requirements come from.
Read guideWhat to bring (and expect) at a first aid course
What to bring to your CBD College first aid course, what happens on the day and how to prepare with the online pre-learning.
Read guideWhat is a White Card and do I need one?
A White Card (General Construction Induction, CPCWHS1001) is required before you can work on a construction site in Australia. Here's who needs one.
Read guideDoes a White Card expire? Validity explained
A White Card has no expiry date, but it becomes void after two years out of construction work. Here's how White Card validity works.
Read guideRSA vs RCG: what's the difference?
RSA is the training to serve alcohol; RCG is the training to work around gaming machines. Here's how they differ and whether you need one or both.
Read guideHow long does an RSA last in NSW?
In NSW your RSA competency card is valid for 5 years. Here's how the interim certificate, the photo card and renewals work.
Read guideDo I need an RSA to work in hospitality in NSW?
In NSW, anyone who sells, serves or supplies alcohol needs a valid RSA. Here's who that includes and when you need it.
Read guideHow to become a barista in Australia
You don't need a formal qualification to become a barista in Australia, but training and practice make you far more employable. Here's the path.
Read guideDo you need a qualification to be a barista?
No — there's no legal requirement to be a qualified barista in Australia. But a barista course makes you far more employable. Here's why.
Read guideNationally recognised vs non-accredited barista course: which should you do?
A non-accredited barista course teaches the core skills fast; the 5-hour course adds latte art and a nationally recognised qualification. Here's which suits you.
Read guideCert IV vs Diploma of WHS: which should you do?
The Cert IV in WHS is the entry-level safety qualification; the Diploma steps you up to senior roles. Here's how to choose.
Read guideHow to become a WHS / safety officer in Australia
Most safety officers complete a nationally recognised WHS qualification, then build industry experience. Here's the typical pathway.
Read guideWhat jobs can you get with a Cert IV in WHS?
A Certificate IV in WHS opens roles like WHS officer, safety advisor and site safety rep across construction, mining, healthcare and more.
Read guideDo I need a TAE40122 to train or assess in Australia?
To deliver nationally recognised training or assessment at an RTO, you need the TAE40122 (or an approved equivalent). Here's how it works.
Read guideHow long does the Certificate IV in TAE take?
TAE40122 timing depends on the delivery mode and your pace. CBD College runs an intensive face-to-face block plus online learning and assessments.
Read guideTAE40116 vs TAE40122: what changed?
TAE40122 is the current Certificate IV in Training & Assessment, replacing the superseded TAE40116. Here's what it means for you.
Read guideHow long does a White Card course take?
A White Card course takes one day. Everything — training and assessment — is completed face-to-face in class, with your certificate issued the same day.
Read guideWork health & safety: core principles and responsibilities
WHS rests on preventing harm, involving workers and managing risk. Here's a plain-English overview of the principles and who's responsible for what.
Read guideIs an RSA required in every Australian state?
Yes — every Australian state and territory requires a valid RSA to serve alcohol. What differs is how it's issued, how long it lasts and the regulator.
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