Apply for approval as an auditor
Before applying
To apply for approval as an auditor under the Environmental Protection Act 1994, or to seek mutual recognition of an auditor approval held interstate, you should:
- read the information outlined within each module of the Queensland auditor handbook for contaminated land
- organise a pre-lodgement discussion with us to clarify application requirements and help you to prepare a good quality application.
To make a request for a pre-lodgement discussion, email PALM@des.qld.gov.au with the following information:
- your name and contact details (in your signature block)
- specify that you are requesting a pre-lodgement discussion prior to submitting an auditor application
- specify whether you are an approved auditor in another state.
How to apply
A new application to become an auditor under the Environmental Protection Act 1994 may be made only at certain times and using the form Application for approval as an auditor for contaminated land. Intakes of applications will be accepted at intervals of approximately two years. The 2021 intake has now closed.
A person who is already an auditor in another state may apply at any time to become an auditor in Queensland under the Mutual Recognition (Queensland) Act 1992 and using the form (Written notice to apply for mutual recognition as an auditor for contaminated land).
Auditors may reapply at any time. However, auditors must apply at least 30 business days before their existing approval expires if they wish to keep working without interruption.
The same forms are used for both first-time and re-applications.
Prior to submitting a formal application, you must first sit and pass an exam and also attend an interview. Following this, you will be invited to submit your application.
How to register for the exam
You are able to register your interest in attending the next exam at any time. Send your written correspondence to technicalsupport@des.qld.gov.au
Who should take the exam?
You should complete the exam if you are seeking to become an auditor for the first time in Queensland and if you also meet the other requirements for approval to become an auditor. Module 2 of the Queensland auditor handbook for contaminated land provides more information about the requirements for becoming an auditor.
Who does not need to take the exam?
You do not need to take the exam if any of the following circumstances apply:
- you have already passed an equivalent exam for contaminated land auditors in another state
- you are eligible for mutual recognition as an auditor in Queensland due to being an approved auditor in another state
- you are already an approved auditor in Queensland.
What is the format of the exam?
The exam will test your knowledge of the scientific, technical, legislative, and policy aspects of contaminated land auditing. The exam comprises questions divided into the following five sections:
- Legislation and Policy
- Data Evaluation
- Exposure and Pathway Assessment
- Human Toxicology and Ecotoxicology
- Remediation and Site Management
Each of the sections of the exam has a minimum pass rate. You must pass every section to pass the exam as a whole i.e. failure to meet the minimum pass rate in any section of the exam will result in failure of the exam.
You will be required to provide a typed response to the exam on a supplied computer.
How long will the exam take?
A 15-minute briefing will precede the exam. You will then be given 15 minutes to read the exam questions prior to starting the three (3) hour formal exam period.
What to bring to the exam?
This is an open book exam, you may bring reference materials with you (in either hard copy or on a USB memory stick). A computer will be provided for you to use to complete the exam and view any reference material. However, you cannot use any of your own electronic devices (such as phone, tablet or laptop) during the exam. Also, you will not have access to the internet or any form of electronic communication, such as email, Skype, WhatsApp, Instagram, etc.
You will not be allowed to share reference material with other candidates.
Due to the confidential nature of the exam, you must give all USB memory sticks, and any handwritten notes used during the exam to the exam supervisor at the end of the exam.
When can I expect my results?
You will be informed of your results within 30 business days of the exam. If you are successful, you will be invited to attend an interview.
What happens if I fail the exam?
You may apply to take the exam again in the next round. You will not have the opportunity to resit the exam in the current round. In Queensland, exams are held approximately every two years.
Once you have your approval
You are required to comply with the conditions of your approval and Module 4: Code of professional conduct of the Queensland auditor handbook for contaminated land.