Australian Qualification Framework (AQF) and Australian Training Programs
There are many people working in the tree care industry. Unfortunately, too many of them have little or no training and therefore recommend and carry out bad tree work. Often these people will refer to themselves as arborist when in fact they are just 'tree loppers' with no understanding of what their uneducated practices or advice to tree owners causes in the short and long term.
It is important that anyone seeking advice on trees should only engage a AQF Level 5 qualified Arborists to provide consultations. Further if you are engaging a arborist to conduct tree maintenance or pruning works, please ensure they have a minimun AQF Level 3 qualification in Arboriculture.
Arboriculture Australia™ offers a free online service where government agencies and private companies or property owners can down load a list of arborists that have the appropriate Australian qualification to undertake the required tasks. All arborist who are on the professional Arboriculture Australia™ listing have the correct insurance to provide adequate coverage.
The arborist listed on the the Arboriculture Australia™ Professional Members list also have to obtain annual Continual Education Units (CEU) to ensure the arborists are keeping up to date with the latest best practices and plant health knowledge.
If you cannot find a AQF qualified arborist in your area, you should seek a ISA Certified Arborists who has undertaken and passed a rigorous study and examination process. They are also required to continue their education in order to remain ISA Certified.
Employing an ISA Certified Arborist although not as highly trained as AQF arborists will give you peace of mind that the person working on your trees has a theory knowledge on the best practices, there is no guarantee ISA certified arborists have any practical knowledge..
You should ask questions before employing any person, including Certified Arborists, to work on your trees. Ask for references, proof of qualifications and insurance.
What is an arborist?
An arborist is a specialist in the care and management of individual trees.
Arborists are knowledgeable about the needs of trees and are trained and equipped to provide proper care.
Hiring an arborist is a decision that should not be taken lightly. Proper tree care is an investment that can lead to substantial returns. Well cared-for trees are attractive and can add considerable value to your property. Poorly maintained trees can be a significant liability.
Pruning or removing trees, especially large trees, is dangerous work. Tree work should only be done by those trained and equipped to work safely in trees.
What is the difference between an Arboriculture Australia™ Arborist, ISA Certified Arborist and just a self proclaimed arborist?
Numerous qualifications and qualification levels exist. Once completed no no-going commitment is required to keep that qualification but Arboriculture Australia™ and the ISA require arborist to continue their education annually and submit evidence.
Arboriculture Australia™ and ISA Certified Arborists are individuals who have achieved a level of knowledge in the art and science of tree care through at least three years of experience and have passed a comprehensive examination.
They are also required to continue their education in order to maintain their certification, ensuring their knowledge is updated on the latest Arboriculture techniques.
Arboriculture Australia™ and ISA Arborist Certified Arborists is a non-governmental voluntary process that operates without mandate of law. It is an internal self-regulating device administered by the Arboriculture Australia™ and the International Society of Arboriculture, and therefore, cannot guarantee or assure the quality of performance.
Arboriculture Australia™ AQF Qualifications and ISA Certification provides a measurable assessment of an individual’s knowledge and competence required to provide proper tree care.
Information for Certified Arborists
CEUs
To keep your Certified status it is important that you keep earning CEUs. For information on how to earn CEUs or checking your current status contact Arboriculture Australia™ or visit the ISA CEUs web page. For particular questions on CEUs in Australia e-mail the Australian Certification Liaison Officer.
See coming events Events for seminars and courses that attract CEUs.
Certification promotional materials
Promotional materials including stickers, patches, clothing can be purchased from the ISAAC. Contact the Administration Office for more information.
Links
ISA Web Page for promoting trees to the public. www.treesaregood.com