In another step to support local business in the Territory, construction workers can now get their official NT White Cards saved to their smartphone ‘wallet’ thanks to the Can-do Territory online services portal.
In line with the Territory Economic Reconstruction Commission recommendations, the new online services portal is centralising business information and providing tracking and transparency to online application processes.
“We’re cutting more red tape for Territorians and offering the NT White Cards in a digital, more convenient format,” Minister for Corporate and Digital Development Ngaree Ah Kit said.
“This gives our local construction workers greater flexibility and lowers the risk of these important cards being forgotten, misplaced or damaged.”
Construction workers in the Territory are currently required to have an NT White Card in order to work on a construction site. Workers must show their cards as proof of training if asked by a principal contractor, a Work Health and Safety Entry Permit Holder or a Worksafe Inspector.
This digital solution allows for faster and better processes for the workers, as well as those within the construction sector.
“There are discussions nationally about digitalising the White Cards and it is exciting that this is already a reality in the Territory,” NT WorkSafe’s Director of NT Regulatory Reform Chris Wicks said.
“These changes do not compromise the safety, and the strict training requirements to qualify for a white card in the Territory have not changed.”
To allow the change, NT WorkSafe has amended the Work Health and Safety (National Uniform Legislation) Regulations 2011 to enable the White Cards to go digital.
Applicants will still receive a physical copy of their NT White Card however smartphone users can also opt-in for a digital version of the NT White Card that can be delivered to their phone wallet (apple wallet or google wallet).
In order to receive an NT White Card, applicants must first undertake mandatory work health and safety delivered by an approved registered training organisation (RTO).
The Can-do Territory online services platform will expand over time, integrating more online applications making it easier for Territorians and businesses to access information, lodge and track online forms and transact digitally with the NT Government.
“This is a can-do Territory and we are focussed on making the Territory one of the easiest places to do business,” Minister for Business, Jobs and Training Paul Kirby said.
“The Territory Business Centre will continue to offer NT White Cards in person, as well as a range of other business services, such as licence and permits, business support, grants and government assistance programs and access to workforce and skills assistance.”
Source: NT Government Media Release