AHC20520 Certificate II in Arboriculture

Nationally Recognised Training | Career Skills Australia Pty Ltd | RTO 45254

Course Description

Start your career in the arboriculture and tree maintenance industry with the AHC20520 Certificate II in Arboriculture.

This nationally recognised qualification provides the essential practical skills and safety knowledge required for ground-based tree work operations. Learners gain hands-on experience in tree pruning, tree removal support, stump grinding, chainsaw use, pole saw operation, rigging support, and safe worksite practices.

This course is ideal for individuals looking to begin a career in:

  • tree maintenance
  • council vegetation teams
  • landscaping support
  • vegetation management
  • ground-based arboriculture
  • tree lopping support services

Training is delivered in a real or closely simulated workplace environment, ensuring learners develop job-ready skills aligned with current arboriculture industry standards.

Employment Opportunities

After successful completion, learners may pursue roles such as:

  • Ground-Based Arborist
  • Tree Maintenance Assistant
  • Council Vegetation Worker
  • Arboriculture Trainee
  • Tree Removal Support Worker
  • Grounds & Tree Services Assistant

Course Delivery Options

Career Skills offers this qualification through:

✅ Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)
✅ Training & Assessment

Course Duration

  • Enrolment Validity: 2 years
  • RPL Duration: Usually 3 months
  • Training & Assessment: Typically 12 months

Both pathways use our Online Learning Management System (LMS).

Mode of Delivery

  • Face-to-face
  • Practical outdoor workshops
  • Workplace-based evidence
  • Blended LMS support
  • Simulated industry assessment

Entry Requirements

There are no formal qualification entry requirements.

However, Career Skills Australia requires learners to:

  1. Be 18 years or older
  2. Have employer / supervisor support
  3. Hold a Higher School Certificate or equivalent
  4. Have a valid White Card
  5. Complete LLN assessment
  6. Commit to course duration
  7. Provide workplace support agreement

Additional Requirements

💻 Internet-capable laptop
📂 Access to LMS
📤 Ability to upload evidence (RPL)
📝 Access to learning materials at home and in class

Study Pathways

  • After completing this course, learners may progress into:

    • AHC30820 Certificate III in Arboriculture
    • AHC30921 Certificate III in Landscape Construction
    • AHC30722 Certificate III in Horticulture
    • higher-level vegetation and land management qualifications

Course Fees & Financial Information

Indicative Course Fees

  • Training Pathway: From AUD 3,500 – 5,500
  • Traineeship / workplace pathway: custom quote

Final fees may vary depending on:

  • delivery mode
  • traineeship eligibility
  • government funding support
  • state subsidy availability

👉 Please contact our office for a personalised fee quote.

Certificate Issuance

A Certificate will be issued once all required units are completed successfully.

A Statement of Attainment may be issued for partial completion.

Certificates are generally issued within:

30 days of final competency completion

provided all evidence, assessments, USI, and fees are completed.

Units of Competency

Total Units Required: 11 units (all Core) — with optional Electives available


✅ CORE UNITS — 11 (All Mandatory)

#Unit CodeUnit Title
1AHCARB212Operate and maintain stump grinding machines
2AHCARB213Perform ground-based rigging
3AHCARB214Recognise trees
4AHCARB316Perform pruning operations
5FWPCOT2236Fall trees manually (basic)
6FWPCOT2237Maintain chainsaws
7FWPCOT2239Trim and cut felled trees
8FWPCOT3238Operate a pole saw
9FWPHAR2206Operate a mobile chipper/mulcher
10HLTAID011Provide First Aid
11AHCARB201Apply a range of treatments to trees

ELECTIVE UNITS — (Optional, chosen by RTO)

RTOs may include additional elective units from the following examples to build a 15-unit programme. Elective selections must be relevant to arboriculture job outcomes and maintain AQF Level 2 integrity.

Unit CodeUnit Title
AHCBUS201Use business equipment and technology
AHCARB202Fell small trees
AHCARB203Perform above ground pruning
AHCARB204Undertake standard climbing techniques
AHCARB205Operate and maintain chainsaws
AHCARB206Conduct visual tree assessment
AHCARB207Work safely in the arboriculture industry
AHCBIO204Use small plant and equipment
AHCMOM202Operate tractors
AHCPCM203Fell trees manually
AHCPGD201Plant trees and shrubs
AHCPMG202Treat plant pests, diseases and disorders
AHCWRK204Work effectively in the industry
AHCWRK205Regulate drainage systems
CPCCCM2006Apply basic levelling procedures

Commencement Date

📞 please get in touch with our office for the next available intake dates.

🔄 Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)

Recognition is available to all learners of the RTO. An application for Recognition can be made on the Application for Recognition Form

Refund Policy & Deferments

Please refer to the Student Handbook for complete details on:

  • Refunds
  • Deferments
  • Cancellations
  • Transfers

Third Party Disclosure

All training, assessment and student recruitment for this course is conducted directly by Career Skills Australia Pty Ltd (RTO 45254). No third-party organisations are engaged in the delivery of training or assessment on our behalf.

Contact Details

📞 Phone: +61 405 133 881
📍 Address: 125 Cosgrove Road, Belfield NSW 2191
📧 Email: info@careerskills.edu.au

About Career Skills Australia

Career Skills Australia Pty Ltd is a private registered training organisation in Australia, delivering industry-focused education and practical training designed for real-world success.