For over 30 years, the free BYDA (external link) referral service has allowed users to access vital plans and information about registered underground infrastructure assets, making ground works safer.
Before You Dig Australia (BYDA) is the leading voice for utility damage prevention in Australia. We strive for zero damage, zero harm, and zero disruption. We are dedicated to preventing injury and reducing damage to the complex networks that provide essential services to millions of Australians every day. In partnership with utilities, local councils, government agencies, and private enterprises we champion safe work practices around utility infrastructure. We provide the Australian community free safety tools necessary to identify and avoid above and below ground utility services. These tools include the BYDA referral service to obtain underground utility information and the Look up and Live app to obtain overhead powerline information. These free safety tools play a vital role in supporting safe work practices and are essential for anyone planning work near utilities. We have developed these online courses tailored for professionals who plan, design, or carry out ground-disturbing work to equip them with the knowledge to prevent underground utility damage, meet compliance requirements, and contribute to a safer work environment.
BYDA operates a free referral service that provides workers and organisations preparing to dig or excavate with detailed plans and safety information for utilities like gas, electricity, water, and telecommunications. Our Look Up and Live safety tool also provides workers with guidelines to keep you safe when working or transferring equipment at height near overhead powerlines.
BYDA has developed the below online courses tailored for professionals who plan, design, or carry out ground-disturbing work to equip them with the knowledge to prevent underground utility damage, meet compliance requirements, and contribute to a safer work environment.
Introduction to the BYDA Services - BYDA - Course Details
Interpreting Plans and Raising AS5488 Quality Levels - BYDA - Course Details
Work Safely Around Utilities - BYDA - Course Details
These courses are eligible for 1 CPD point each for all licensed practitoners once successfully completed.

This page has been produced and published by the Consumer Building and Occupational Services Division of the Department of Justice. Although every care has been taken in production, no responsibility is accepted for the accuracy, completeness, or relevance to the user's purpose of the information. Those using it for whatever purpose are advised to verify it with the relevant government department, local government body or other source and to obtain any appropriate professional advice. The Crown, its officers, employees and agents do not accept liability however arising, including liability for negligence, for any loss resulting from the use of or reliance upon the information and/or reliance on its availability at any time.