Queensland • Air Conditioning Technician

Air Conditioning Technician Licence Requirements in Queensland

Everything you need to know about air conditioning technician licensing in Queensland — qualifications, costs, the licensing body, available licence types, and penalties for unlicensed work. Updated for the 2025–2026 financial year.

Licensing Body

Air Conditioning Technician licences in Queensland are issued and regulated by:

Queensland Building and Construction Commission (QBCC)

Visit official website

Do You Need a Licence?

Yes — a licence is required

You must hold a valid licence to carry out air conditioning technician work in Queensland. This is regulated by Queensland Building and Construction Commission (QBCC). Working without a licence is illegal and may result in significant fines.

Licence Types Available

Mechanical Services — Air-conditioning and Refrigeration

Installation, maintenance, and repair of air-conditioning and refrigeration systems

Refrigerant Handling Licence (ARCtick)

Required to purchase and handle fluorocarbon refrigerants

Requirements

To obtain a air conditioning technician licence in Queensland, you need:

  • Certificate III in Air Conditioning and Refrigeration (UEE32220 or equivalent)
  • Completed 4-year apprenticeship
  • ARCtick refrigerant handling licence from the Australian Refrigeration Council
  • QBCC financial requirements met
  • Current public liability insurance (minimum $5 million)

Costs

Fee Type Amount
Application Fee $900 for QBCC trade contractor licence
Renewal Fee $900 annually (QBCC) plus $60 ARCtick licence
Renewal Period 1 year (QBCC), 3 years (ARCtick)

Penalties for Unlicensed Work

Unlicensed air-conditioning work in QLD carries fines up to $46,575 for individuals (QBCC). Handling refrigerant without an ARCtick licence carries additional federal penalties up to $63,000.

Exemptions

A licence is not required for the following work in Queensland:

  • Air-conditioning work valued under $3,300 (inc. GST) — QBCC licence only
  • Cleaning and replacing air filters
  • Portable/plug-in air conditioners (no installation required)
  • ARCtick licence is always required for any work involving refrigerant regardless of value

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a licence to work as a air conditioning technician in Queensland?
Yes, you need a licence to carry out air conditioning technician work in Queensland. The licensing body is Queensland Building and Construction Commission (QBCC). Working without a valid licence is illegal and can result in significant penalties.
How much does a air conditioning technician licence cost in Queensland?
The application fee for a air conditioning technician licence in Queensland is $900 for QBCC trade contractor licence. Renewal costs $900 annually (QBCC) plus $60 ARCtick licence and must be renewed every 1 year (QBCC), 3 years (ARCtick). Additional costs may include public liability insurance and any required assessments.
What qualifications do I need to become a licensed air conditioning technician in Queensland?
To obtain a air conditioning technician licence in Queensland, you typically need: Certificate III in Air Conditioning and Refrigeration (UEE32220 or equivalent); Completed 4-year apprenticeship; ARCtick refrigerant handling licence from the Australian Refrigeration Council. Check with Queensland Building and Construction Commission (QBCC) for the complete list of requirements.
What are the penalties for unlicensed air conditioning technician work in Queensland?
Unlicensed air-conditioning work in QLD carries fines up to $46,575 for individuals (QBCC). Handling refrigerant without an ARCtick licence carries additional federal penalties up to $63,000.
Can I use my Queensland air conditioning technician licence in other states?
Queensland air conditioning technician 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 Air Conditioning Technician Requirements in Other States

Licence requirements vary between states. Compare air conditioning technician requirements across Australia:

New South Wales (NSW)
Victoria (VIC)
Western Australia (WA)
South Australia (SA)
Tasmania (TAS)
Australian Capital Territory (ACT)
Northern Territory (NT)

Ready to verify a air conditioning technician?

Check any air conditioning technician's licence status in Queensland instantly. Free and sourced from official registers.

Check a Licence