Victoria • Electrician

Electrician Licence Requirements in Victoria

Everything you need to know about electrician licensing in Victoria — 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 Victoria are issued and regulated by:

Energy Safe Victoria

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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 Victoria. This is regulated by Energy Safe Victoria. Working without a licence is illegal and may result in significant fines.

Licence Types Available

Registered Electrical Contractor (REC)

Contract for and manage electrical work in Victoria

Licensed Electrician — Class A

Carry out all electrical installation work

Licensed Electrician — Supervised Worker

Carry out electrical work under supervision of a licensed electrician

Requirements

To obtain a electrician licence in Victoria, you need:

  • Certificate III in Electrotechnology Electrician (UEE30820 or equivalent)
  • Completed 4-year apprenticeship
  • Energy Safe Victoria electrical licence
  • REC: additional business and supervisory qualifications
  • Public liability insurance (minimum $5 million for REC)

Costs

Fee Type Amount
Application Fee $350 for licensed electrician
Renewal Fee $280 annually
Renewal Period 1 year (5-year renewal available)

Penalties for Unlicensed Work

Unlicensed electrical work in Victoria carries fines up to $44,762 for individuals. Energy Safe Victoria can also issue infringement notices, prohibition notices, and pursue criminal prosecution.

Exemptions

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

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a licence to work as a electrician in Victoria?
Yes, you need a licence to carry out electrician work in Victoria. The licensing body is Energy Safe Victoria. Working without a valid licence is illegal and can result in significant penalties.
How much does a electrician licence cost in Victoria?
The application fee for a electrician licence in Victoria is $350 for licensed electrician. Renewal costs $280 annually and must be renewed every 1 year (5-year renewal available). Additional costs may include public liability insurance and any required assessments.
What qualifications do I need to become a licensed electrician in Victoria?
To obtain a electrician licence in Victoria, you typically need: Certificate III in Electrotechnology Electrician (UEE30820 or equivalent); Completed 4-year apprenticeship; Energy Safe Victoria electrical licence. Check with Energy Safe Victoria for the complete list of requirements.
What are the penalties for unlicensed electrician work in Victoria?
Unlicensed electrical work in Victoria carries fines up to $44,762 for individuals. Energy Safe Victoria can also issue infringement notices, prohibition notices, and pursue criminal prosecution.
Can I use my Victoria electrician licence in other states?
Victoria 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)
Western Australia (WA)
South Australia (SA)
Tasmania (TAS)
Australian Capital Territory (ACT)
Northern Territory (NT)

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