Dogging and rigging are two closely related high risk work roles in the Australian construction, civil and resources industries, but they are not the same thing. In short, dogging is about directing crane load movements and selecting and inspecting lifting gear, while rigging is about assembling, moving and dismantling structures and heavy plant using that lifting equipment. Dogging is the entry point, and rigging is the more advanced skill set you build on top of it.

If you are looking to start a career working with cranes and lifting, understanding how these two roles fit together will help you choose the right first course and map out a clear pathway. Both require a High Risk Work Licence (HRWL), and both are in strong demand as major infrastructure and resources projects continue across the country.

What Is Dogging?

Dogging is the skill of directing a crane operator and managing the safe movement of a load. A licensed dogger, often called a dogman, is responsible for selecting and inspecting lifting equipment such as chains, synthetic slings, shackles and lifting beams, and for guiding the crane operator when the load is out of the operator’s line of sight using hand signals or radio.

Dogging is covered by the nationally recognised unit CPCCLDG3001 Licence to perform dogging, and it results in a Class DG High Risk Work Licence. It is the foundation ticket for anyone wanting to work in and around cranes, and most labour hire agencies treat it as the minimum requirement for crane and rigging crews.

What Is Rigging?

Rigging builds on dogging skills and moves into the assembly, movement and dismantling of structures, plant and equipment. Where a dogger directs the load, a rigger is the person erecting steel, installing safety systems and moving heavy machinery into place. Rigging is delivered in three progressive levels, each unlocking more complex and higher-paid work.

Basic Rigging (RB) covers structural steel erection, the installation of safety nets and static lines, and general rigging on construction and civil projects. Intermediate Rigging (RI) adds skills such as dual crane lifts, tilt-up panels, cranes, conveyors and demolition rigging. Advanced Rigging (RA) is the top tier, covering complex work such as gin poles, suspended scaffolds and hung scaffolds.

What Is the Key Difference Between Dogging and Rigging?

The simplest way to think about it is this: dogging is about moving loads safely, while rigging is about securing, assembling and building with them. A dogger works with the crane to shift a load from A to B. A rigger uses lifting equipment to construct or dismantle something, such as the steel skeleton of a building or a piece of heavy plant.

Because rigging involves more complex lifting, you need the underlying dogging knowledge first. That is why dogging is a prerequisite for rigging, and why the two are so often discussed together.

Do You Need a Dogging Licence Before You Can Do Rigging?

Yes. A current Dogging (DG) licence is the prerequisite for all rigging courses in Australia. The logic is simple: rigging involves complex lifting, and if you cannot correctly select a sling or direct a crane, you are not ready to start erecting steel safely. Those crane-direction and lifting-gear skills are exactly what the dogging course teaches.

For this reason, complete beginners are usually advised to start with dogging and then progress to basic rigging. Many providers offer combined courses, such as dogging and basic rigging together, which is often the most efficient and cost-effective way to build your qualifications.

What Is the Career Pathway From Dogger to Rigger?

The lifting and cranes pathway follows a clear ladder, and each rung adds to your employability and earning potential:

• Dogging (DG): your entry ticket, getting you onto construction and mine sites in a lifting support role.
• Basic Rigging (RB): structural steel, safety systems and general rigging on construction and civil projects.
• Intermediate Rigging (RI): dual crane lifts, tilt-up panels, conveyors and demolition rigging.
• Advanced Rigging (RA): the highest level, covering gin poles, hung scaffolds and complex lifts.

Many workers also progress into crane operation, since a strong understanding of dogging makes for a safer, more capable crane operator. Each licence level you add opens up more advanced work and typically a higher hourly rate.

What Eligibility and Requirements Apply?

To undertake dogging or rigging training you generally need to be at least 18 years of age, be able to use English at a level that supports safe high risk work, and provide 100 points of identification. Rigging courses additionally require you to hold a current dogging licence (or in some cases be enrolled in the dogging course alongside it).

Training combines classroom theory with hands-on practical work, and you are assessed under the National Assessment Instrument. Once you are assessed as competent, you apply to your state or territory regulator, such as WorkSafe WA or Workplace Health and Safety Queensland, to be issued your High Risk Work Licence.

What Jobs Can Dogging and Rigging Lead To?

These tickets open the door to a wide range of well-paid roles, including dogger, rigger, crane operator assistant, steel erector and infrastructure project worker. With Australia facing significant projected shortfalls in skilled trades and operator roles on major infrastructure projects, demand for qualified doggers and riggers remains strong across construction, civil, mining and oil and gas.

Conclusion

Dogging and rigging are two stages of the same career pathway. Dogging teaches you to direct cranes and handle lifting gear safely, and it is the essential first step. Rigging builds on that foundation across basic, intermediate and advanced levels, unlocking more complex work and higher pay at each stage. If you are new to the industry, the smartest move is to start with your dogging ticket and progress from there.

All Global Training (RTO 45224) delivers nationally recognised dogging and rigging training with experienced assessors and practical, job-ready instruction. Get in touch to book your dogging course, plan your rigging pathway or arrange a Verification of Competency for your team.