Victoria • Plumber

Plumber Licence Requirements in Victoria

Everything you need to know about plumber 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

Plumber licences in Victoria are issued and regulated by:

Victorian Building Authority (VBA)

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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 Victoria. This is regulated by Victorian Building Authority (VBA). Working without a licence is illegal and may result in significant fines.

Licence Types Available

Registered Plumber

Carry out plumbing work under supervision or independently

Licensed Plumber

Carry out and certify plumbing work, issue compliance certificates

Registered Plumber (Roofing — Stormwater)

Install and maintain roof plumbing and stormwater systems

Requirements

To obtain a plumber licence in Victoria, you need:

  • Certificate III in Plumbing (CPC32420 or equivalent)
  • Completed 4-year apprenticeship
  • Licensed Plumber: 2 years post-registration experience plus exam
  • Plumbing Industry Commission registration
  • Public liability insurance

Costs

Fee Type Amount
Application Fee $445 for registration
Renewal Fee $445 annually
Renewal Period 1 year

Penalties for Unlicensed Work

Unlicensed plumbing work in Victoria carries fines up to $46,294 for individuals. The VBA can also issue building orders, injunctions, and pursue criminal prosecution.

Exemptions

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

  • Replacing a tap washer or ceramic disc (like-for-like)
  • Clearing a blocked fixture drain with a hand plunger
  • Replacing a shower head (screw-on type)
  • Work on non-drinking-water garden irrigation not connected to mains

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a licence to work as a plumber in Victoria?
Yes, you need a licence to carry out plumber work in Victoria. The licensing body is Victorian Building Authority (VBA). Working without a valid licence is illegal and can result in significant penalties.
How much does a plumber licence cost in Victoria?
The application fee for a plumber licence in Victoria is $445 for registration. Renewal costs $445 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 Victoria?
To obtain a plumber licence in Victoria, you typically need: Certificate III in Plumbing (CPC32420 or equivalent); Completed 4-year apprenticeship; Licensed Plumber: 2 years post-registration experience plus exam. Check with Victorian Building Authority (VBA) for the complete list of requirements.
What are the penalties for unlicensed plumber work in Victoria?
Unlicensed plumbing work in Victoria carries fines up to $46,294 for individuals. The VBA can also issue building orders, injunctions, and pursue criminal prosecution.
Can I use my Victoria plumber licence in other states?
Victoria 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)
Western Australia (WA)
South Australia (SA)
Tasmania (TAS)
Australian Capital Territory (ACT)
Northern Territory (NT)

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