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Origins of Turbo Cert II

Meeting the Needs of Industry

In Queensland’s oil and gas sector, drilling contractors have long struggled with a costly challenge: high workforce attrition. Millions were being lost in onboarding and training, only for new recruits to leave the industry soon after. Contractors needed a better way to ensure that those entering the industry were not only skilled but also committed to long-term careers.

AWCC’s Vision for Change
The Australian Well Control Centre (AWCC) listened to the call. As a trusted leader in well control and drilling training, AWCC set out to design a solution that would directly address these issues. The result was the Turbo Cert Program – a groundbreaking initiative that has reshaped how entry-level oil and gas professionals are trained.

A Purpose-Built Training Facility

At the heart of this innovation was a bold investment: AWCC put more than $600,000 of its own funds into building a purpose-based drilling training facility in Toowoomba, Queensland. This world-class site, the only one of its type in Australia, is equipped with real-life rig equipment that allows students to gain authentic, hands-on drilling experience.
Introducing the Turbo Cert Program
The program’s official title is RII21120 Certificate II in Oil & Gas Drilling (Onshore) and Well Servicing. For the first time in Australia, this nationally recognised drilling qualification is being delivered to the public, rather than exclusively within industry. With access to experienced rig-site trainers and specialised drilling equipment, students can complete their Certificate II in Drilling more efficiently and effectively than ever before.

From Pilot to Proven Success
The first Turbo Cert pilot launched in February 2024. Over the following 18 months, more than 160 students successfully completed the program. Employers quickly recognised the value: graduates entered the workforce with greater competency, stronger commitment, and reduced training needs. This directly reduced costs for drilling contractors and improved compliance with Queensland’s Oil and Gas Inspectorate requirements

Award-Winning Innovation

In August 2025, the Turbo Cert Program was awarded the Queensland Oil and Gas Industry Innovation Award 2025. This recognition highlighted AWCC’s leadership in creating safer, more efficient, and more sustainable training pathways for the sector.

Now Backed by Government Funding
Beyond industry recognition, the Queensland Government has now approved funding for the Turbo Cert Program. Thanks to this support, students can now access the course for just a $500 AUD contribution. This makes starting a career in oil and gas drilling more affordable than ever before, opening doors for motivated individuals eager to join the industry.

AWCC: The Quiet Achievers
For AWCC, the Turbo Cert Program represents more than just a training course. It is a win-win solution that benefits the entire sector:
· For students, it provides an affordable and accessible pathway into a high-demand career, supported by world-class facilities.
· For employers, it delivers a pool of motivated, well-prepared recruits who already understand rig operations.
· For the industry, it strengthens safety, compliance, and sustainability.
By quietly driving these changes, AWCC continues to prove itself as Australia’s quiet achiever, leading the way in drilling training without fanfare, but with lasting impact.

Learn More & Apply
Ready to start your career in oil and gas drilling, or explore funding options? Find out more below:

Turbo Cert II

SAS Funding

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