Northern Territory • Plumber

Plumber Licence Requirements in Northern Territory

Everything you need to know about plumber licensing in Northern 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 Northern Territory are issued and regulated by:

NT Building Practitioners Board

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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 Northern Territory. This is regulated by NT Building Practitioners Board. Working without a licence is illegal and may result in significant fines.

Licence Types Available

Plumbing Contractor Registration

Contract to carry out plumbing and drainage work in the NT

Plumbing Worker Registration

Carry out plumbing work under a registered contractor

Requirements

To obtain a plumber licence in Northern Territory, you need:

  • Certificate III in Plumbing (CPC32420 or equivalent)
  • Completed 4-year apprenticeship
  • Contractor: minimum 2 years practical experience
  • Public liability insurance
  • NT building practitioner registration

Costs

Fee Type Amount
Application Fee $200 for worker registration
Renewal Fee $200 annually
Renewal Period 1 year

Penalties for Unlicensed Work

Unlicensed plumbing work in the NT carries fines up to $31,400 for individuals. The Building Practitioners Board can also suspend or cancel registration and order rectification.

Exemptions

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

  • Replacing a tap washer or shower head
  • Clearing a blocked drain with a hand plunger
  • Connecting a washing machine to existing outlets
  • Minor garden irrigation not connected to mains supply

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a licence to work as a plumber in Northern Territory?
Yes, you need a licence to carry out plumber work in Northern Territory. The licensing body is NT Building Practitioners Board. Working without a valid licence is illegal and can result in significant penalties.
How much does a plumber licence cost in Northern Territory?
The application fee for a plumber licence in Northern Territory is $200 for worker registration. Renewal costs $200 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 Northern Territory?
To obtain a plumber licence in Northern Territory, you typically need: Certificate III in Plumbing (CPC32420 or equivalent); Completed 4-year apprenticeship; Contractor: minimum 2 years practical experience. Check with NT Building Practitioners Board for the complete list of requirements.
What are the penalties for unlicensed plumber work in Northern Territory?
Unlicensed plumbing work in the NT carries fines up to $31,400 for individuals. The Building Practitioners Board can also suspend or cancel registration and order rectification.
Can I use my Northern Territory plumber licence in other states?
Northern 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)
Australian Capital Territory (ACT)

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