Getting Started

Getting Started

How to Take the First Step

The RAC industry is an excellent pathway for people who enjoy practical work, problem-solving, and technology. As an essential trade supporting homes, businesses, hospitals, supermarkets, food production, and industry, qualified workers are in strong demand across Australia.

1

Build a foundation at school

No mandatory subjects are required, but mathematics, science, engineering, technology, and industrial skills provide a strong foundation for training and workplace success.

2

Secure an apprenticeship

The most important step — opportunities with refrigeration contractors, AC companies, facilities management, mining, food processing, supermarkets, government, and large commercial organisations. Employers value work ethic, reliability, communication, and technical interest.

3

Complete the Certificate III

The Certificate III in Air Conditioning and Refrigeration combines paid on-the-job training with formal study — installing, servicing, and repairing systems while learning electrical fundamentals, refrigeration principles, safety, and environmental regulations.

4

Gain broad experience

Work across residential AC, commercial cooling, industrial refrigeration, and automated building control systems to build the technical and practical skills for long-term success.

5

Obtain licences & certifications

Depending on your role and state, obtain refrigerant handling licences, restricted or full electrical licences, and other industry certifications, and maintain compliance with regulations.

6

Specialise & advance

Pursue employment across commercial AC, industrial refrigeration, cold storage, mining, healthcare, and facilities management — then specialise in controls and automation, energy management, industrial refrigeration, or project management for higher earnings.

A future-focused trade

The industry rewards continuous learning. As businesses adopt more energy-efficient and sustainable systems, technicians with up-to-date skills and qualifications will remain highly valued — a stable, well-paid, long-term career with strong prospects across Australia.