Australian Capital Territory • Electrician

Electrician Licence Requirements in Australian Capital Territory

Everything you need to know about electrician licensing in Australian Capital Territory — qualifications, costs, the licensing body, available licence types, and penalties for unlicensed work. Updated for the 2025–2026 financial year.

Licensing Body

Electrician licences in Australian Capital Territory are issued and regulated by:

ACT Construction Occupations Registrar

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Do You Need a Licence?

Yes — a licence is required

You must hold a valid licence to carry out electrician work in Australian Capital Territory. This is regulated by ACT Construction Occupations Registrar. Working without a licence is illegal and may result in significant fines.

Licence Types Available

Electrician Licence — Class A

Carry out all electrical wiring work in the ACT

Electrician Licence — Class B

Limited electrical work (maintenance and repairs)

Electrical Contractor Licence

Contract for electrical work in the ACT

Requirements

To obtain a electrician licence in Australian Capital Territory, you need:

  • Certificate III in Electrotechnology Electrician (UEE30820 or equivalent)
  • Completed 4-year apprenticeship
  • ACT Construction Occupations electrical licence
  • Contractor: additional business qualifications
  • Public liability insurance

Costs

Fee Type Amount
Application Fee $355 for initial licence
Renewal Fee $295 annually
Renewal Period 1 year

Penalties for Unlicensed Work

Unlicensed electrical work in the ACT can result in fines up to $48,000 for individuals. The Construction Occupations Registrar can also issue demerit points and prohibition notices.

Exemptions

A licence is not required for the following work in Australian Capital Territory:

  • Replacing a light bulb or tube (like-for-like)
  • Plugging in portable appliances
  • Extra-low-voltage work under 50V AC

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a licence to work as a electrician in Australian Capital Territory?
Yes, you need a licence to carry out electrician work in Australian Capital Territory. The licensing body is ACT Construction Occupations Registrar. Working without a valid licence is illegal and can result in significant penalties.
How much does a electrician licence cost in Australian Capital Territory?
The application fee for a electrician licence in Australian Capital Territory is $355 for initial licence. Renewal costs $295 annually and must be renewed every 1 year. Additional costs may include public liability insurance and any required assessments.
What qualifications do I need to become a licensed electrician in Australian Capital Territory?
To obtain a electrician licence in Australian Capital Territory, you typically need: Certificate III in Electrotechnology Electrician (UEE30820 or equivalent); Completed 4-year apprenticeship; ACT Construction Occupations electrical licence. Check with ACT Construction Occupations Registrar for the complete list of requirements.
What are the penalties for unlicensed electrician work in Australian Capital Territory?
Unlicensed electrical work in the ACT can result in fines up to $48,000 for individuals. The Construction Occupations Registrar can also issue demerit points and prohibition notices.
Can I use my Australian Capital Territory electrician licence in other states?
Australian Capital Territory electrician licences are not automatically valid in other states. However, Australia's Mutual Recognition Act allows you to apply for an equivalent licence in another state through a streamlined process. You'll still need to lodge an application and may need to meet additional local requirements.

Compare Electrician Requirements in Other States

Licence requirements vary between states. Compare electrician requirements across Australia:

Queensland (QLD)
New South Wales (NSW)
Victoria (VIC)
Western Australia (WA)
South Australia (SA)
Tasmania (TAS)
Northern Territory (NT)

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