Australian Capital Territory • Plumber

Plumber Licence Requirements in Australian Capital Territory

Everything you need to know about plumber 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

Plumber 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 plumber 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

Plumber Licence — Class A

Full plumbing work including water supply, sanitary, and drainage

Plumber Licence — Class B

Limited plumbing work such as maintenance and repairs

Plumber Licence — Journeyperson

Carry out plumbing work under a licensed plumber

Requirements

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

  • Certificate III in Plumbing (CPC32420 or equivalent)
  • Completed 4-year apprenticeship
  • Class A: minimum 2 years post-apprenticeship experience
  • Public liability insurance
  • ACT construction induction (white card)

Costs

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

Penalties for Unlicensed Work

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

Exemptions

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

  • Replacing a tap washer or shower head
  • Clearing a blocked drain with a hand plunger
  • Connecting a washing machine to existing plumbing outlets

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a licence to work as a plumber in Australian Capital Territory?
Yes, you need a licence to carry out plumber 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 plumber licence cost in Australian Capital Territory?
The application fee for a plumber 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 plumber in Australian Capital Territory?
To obtain a plumber licence in Australian Capital Territory, you typically need: Certificate III in Plumbing (CPC32420 or equivalent); Completed 4-year apprenticeship; Class A: minimum 2 years post-apprenticeship experience. Check with ACT Construction Occupations Registrar for the complete list of requirements.
What are the penalties for unlicensed plumber work in Australian Capital Territory?
Unlicensed plumbing work in the ACT can result in fines up to $48,000 for individuals. The Construction Occupations Registrar can also issue prohibition notices and demerit points.
Can I use my Australian Capital Territory plumber licence in other states?
Australian Capital Territory plumber 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 Plumber Requirements in Other States

Licence requirements vary between states. Compare plumber 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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