Certified Irrigation Designer (CID)
Australian-led certification for professional irrigation designers
Certified Irrigation Designer (CID)
Industry-recognised. Flexible. Australian-led.
Australian-led
Built to Irrigation Australia standards.
Online Exams
Open-book, supervised via our platform.
Recognised Standard
Trusted by employers and clients.
Career Pathways
Design, consultancy, councils & more.
Program Overview
We’re excited to announce that the new Australian-led Certified Irrigation Designer (CID) Program is now live.
This program has been carefully updated to align with Irrigation Australia standards, with refreshed learning resources and a streamlined application process delivered through our online platform, Ammonite.
- All exams are conducted online.
- Applicants must nominate a supervisor for each step to maintain assessment integrity.
- Applications can be submitted at any time.
- Timeframes and requirements are outlined in the Participant Policy below.
If you’re already designing efficient, sustainable systems, CID gives you a recognised point of difference that customers and employers trust.
Current Availability
- Stage 2 (Pre-Qualification Exam) – now open
- Stage 3 (General Exam) – now open
- Stage 4 (Expert-led Design Tutoring & Practical Application) – planned for release in 2026
Questions? Call (07) 3517 4000 or email certification@irrigation.org.au.
Why Become a CID?
If you are already designing irrigation systems that are efficient and sustainable, becoming a CID is the next step to set yourself apart.
This new certification is highly regarded in the market, giving you a recognised point of difference. Customers see Certified Irrigation Designers as trusted professionals who consistently meet – and often exceed – industry standards.
Where Can It Take Me?
CID certification opens opportunities across multiple industries:
- Landscape and turf management
- Agriculture and horticulture
- Sports fields and golf courses
- Public open space planning and local councils
- Irrigation consultancy, contracting and product supply
It’s a credential that positions you for leadership roles, tender success, and increased professional credibility.
Who Is It For?
CID certification is designed for professionals already working in irrigation who want to formalise their skills:
- Irrigation designers, contractors and consultants
- Landscape and turf managers
- Agricultural and horticultural irrigation professionals
- Local government and water authority staff
- Suppliers and technical sales staff looking to demonstrate credibility
Eligibility
The CID is not an entry-level course. To succeed, you should have:
- At least 2–3 years’ experience in an irrigation-related field (recommended), and/or
- Previous formal training in irrigation (e.g., Certificate III or equivalent).
How It Works
The Certified Irrigation Designer program follows a clear pathway:
- Step 1 – Application: Submit your application form and fee.
- Step 2 – Pre-Qualification Exam: Open-book, supervised exam based on the Principles of Irrigation resource.
- Step 3 – General Exam: Multiple-choice and scenario-based exam using the Irrigation System Design Guidelines.
- Step 4 – Expert-led Tutoring & Practical Application: Launching in 2026.
Annual Renewal: Maintain your certification by earning 5 CPD points per year and paying the renewal fee.
Pricing Breakdown
| Item | Member | Non-Member |
|---|---|---|
| Application Fee | $200 | $300 |
| Pre-Qualification Exam | $440 | $660 |
| General Exam | $440 | $660 |
| Expert-led Design | $TBC | $TBC |
| Resit Exam | $310 | $330 |
| Annual Renewal Fee | $165 | $230 |
Introductory offer – limited-time pricing available.
Course Duration
The CID program is self-paced. On average, candidates complete the process in 6–12 months, depending on prior experience and available study time. Refer to the timeframes and requirements that are outlined in the Participant Policy.
Support & Resources
When you enrol, you’ll gain access to:
- Australian-aligned study materials
- Online practice quizzes
- Guidance from Irrigation Australia’s certification team and committee
- Ongoing professional development opportunities
- All exams are online, supervised, and open book — giving you the flexibility to study and sit assessments around work commitments.
Topics Covered
Key knowledge areas addressed across each stage of the CID pathway
Step 2
Pre-Qualification Exam
Covering the Principles of Irrigation:
- Irrigation systems for landscape/turf and agriculture
- Soils, plants and water
- Precipitation rates
- Efficiency and uniformity concepts
- Irrigation scheduling
- Valves, controllers, and backflow prevention
- Pipes, fittings, and hydraulics
- Pumps, wiring, and electrical principles
Step 3
General Exam
Covering the Irrigation System Design Guidelines:
- Irrigation performance parameters and system standards
- Site considerations, water supply, soils, crops/plants and climate
- Management requirements and system capacity
- Irrigation system selection and design efficiency
- Application efficiency, depth and cycle
- Sprinkler/emitter layout and application uniformity
- Hydraulic design, filtration, pumping and controls
- Measuring, monitoring and checking design performance
- Final specifications, quotations and handover processes
Step 4
Expert-led Design Tutoring & Practical Application
Expert-led Design Tutoring & Practical Application is currently in development and expected in 2026.
Support & Resources
When you enrol, you’ll gain access to:
- Australian-aligned study materials
- Online practice quizzes
- Guidance from Irrigation Australia’s certification team and committee
- Ongoing professional development opportunities
All exams are online, supervised, and open book — giving you the flexibility to study and sit assessments around work commitments.
Recognition & Credibility
As a Certified Irrigation Designer, you’ll be recognised for:
- Meeting rigorous Australian-led standards
- Delivering efficient, sustainable irrigation solutions
- Having a marketplace point of difference
- Contributing to industry best practice
This certification is highly regarded by customers, employers, and peers — helping you win tenders, gain promotions, and grow your business.
Key Rules & Policies
- Exams are online, open book, and supervised.
- All assessments are managed and graded by Irrigation Australia to maintain standards.
To keep your certification active, you must:
- Earn 5 CPD points annually
- Pay your annual renewal invoice on time
Policies & Procedures
To support your journey and uphold the integrity of the CID program, please review the following key documents:
- CID Code of Conduct – outlines professional standards and ethical behaviour.
- CID Participant Policy – details requirements and commitments for candidates.
- CID Supervisor Policy – explains responsibilities for supervisors overseeing exams.
Ready to Apply?
Start your Certified Irrigation Designer (CID) application online right now, or contact our team for more information.
Email: certification@irrigation.org.au
Phone: (07) 3517 4000
Start your certification today
Join the growing network of Certified Irrigation Designers across Australia
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