Following an update to the cabling requirements and requests from the industry, cablers who hold an open registration now have the optional to extend their skills and knowledge with educational courses.

The Australian and Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) implemented a number of changes to the competency requirements for registered cabling providers in 2012, addressing concerns within the cabling industry that some may not have the appropriate skills required to perform specialised cabling work for the current and emerging environment.

Much of these changes were driven by the introduction of the NBN, where customer telecommunications systems are increasingly becoming IP/Ethernet-based and therefore must function over higher data rate capable customer cabling.

Following a two-year transitional period, ending on 1 July 2014, the ACRS has been receiving many enquiries regarding the changes and possibility of upskilling.

If you are working with structured cabling, coaxial cable or fibre optics, these specialised cabling competencies will need to be completed to upskill your registration.

These competencies form the basis for training programs developed by industry skills councils and delivered by recognised training organisations.

If you wish to complete any relevant competencies, please contact your NECA training centre who will offer you expert advice in selecting the relevant course that suits your needs or visit the ACMA website for a full list of RTO’s Australia wide.

Once a cabler completes competency training, they can upgrade their registration simply by completing an ‘Upgrade of Registration’ form. Complete the form and submit it along with a new Statement of Results to ACRS via email or post. A new updated card and a certificate will then be posted.

The cost for a new card is $25, unless upgrading registration at the same time as renewing, when there is no additional fee for the upgrade.