Australian engineering surveyors now have access to an updated and refreshed formal, national certification that reflects the many changes that have been occurring in the sector.
Developed by the Geospatial Council of Australia (GCA) and known as the National Engineering Surveying Certification v2.0, it updates and replaces the former Engineering Surveying Professional – Australasia Pacific (ESP-AP) Certification.
The new Certification is the result of a full review undertaken by the GCA Certification Committee, a Working Group and industry stakeholders. It has been restructured to incorporate new standards and processes and includes a range of enhancements designed to better support both surveyors and employers.
“The launch of the National Engineering Surveying Certification v2.0 represents a major step forward for the industry,” said Tony Wheeler, CEO of GCA.
“We have listened to feedback from our members and industry stakeholders to ensure the certification meets the highest standards of competence and professionalism.”
Key changes include:
- Revised eligibility criteria: The certification now requires a minimum AQF 5 Diploma and revised work experience requirements, making it more accessible to professionals at various career stages.
- Two-tier structure: The introduction of General and Specialist Certification levels provides greater flexibility, catering to both core competencies and specialised expertise.
- Revised competency framework: New mandatory categories such as Data Management and Data Analysis have been added, ensuring alignment with modern industry demands.
- Digitalised application process: A new, user-friendly digital system streamlines the application process, replacing the previous points system with a more transparent assessment approach.
- Assessment interviews: Candidates will now undergo interviews to provide a comprehensive evaluation of their skills and experience.
- New fee structure: Certification fees have been revised, with GCA members paying $550 for new applications and non-members paying $950. After obtaining initial Certification, candidates can later decide to add Specialist sub-categories and pay the additional fees.
“These enhancements ensure that our certification remains relevant and robust, meeting the demands of modern engineering surveying and providing clear pathways for career advancement,” added Wheeler.
Tony Kirchner, Director at the Department of Transport & Main Roads, agrees.
“As an organisation that values the highest levels of precision and expertise, we welcome the changes introduced in v2.0,” he said.
“By introducing the two-tier structure and new competency areas, it empowers engineering surveyors to demonstrate their expertise and remain highly valued in the industry. Employers will greatly benefit from this clarity when hiring or contracting professionals.”
Applications for the National Engineering Surveying Certification are now open, with the next intake session running until 15 November 2024. All existing Certification holders will automatically hold General Certification under the new system.
