Western Australia • Air Conditioning Technician

Air Conditioning Technician Licence Requirements in Western Australia

Everything you need to know about air conditioning technician licensing in Western Australia — 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 Western Australia are issued and regulated by:

Department of Mines, Industry Regulation and Safety (DMIRS)

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Do You Need a Licence?

Yes — a licence is required

You must hold a valid licence to carry out air conditioning technician work in Western Australia. This is regulated by Department of Mines, Industry Regulation and Safety (DMIRS). Working without a licence is illegal and may result in significant fines.

Licence Types Available

Building Service Contractor Registration — Air Conditioning

Contract for air-conditioning work in WA

Refrigerant Handling Licence (ARCtick)

Handle and work with fluorocarbon refrigerants

Requirements

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

  • Certificate III in Air Conditioning and Refrigeration (UEE32220 or equivalent)
  • Completed 4-year apprenticeship
  • ARCtick refrigerant handling licence
  • DMIRS registration for work over $7,500
  • Public liability insurance

Costs

Fee Type Amount
Application Fee $341 for DMIRS registration; $60 for ARCtick
Renewal Fee $341 DMIRS triennially; $60 ARCtick every 3 years
Renewal Period 3 years

Penalties for Unlicensed Work

Unregistered air-conditioning work in WA carries fines up to $50,000 for individuals. Federal ARCtick penalties of up to $63,000 also apply for unlicensed refrigerant handling.

Exemptions

A licence is not required for the following work in Western Australia:

  • Air-conditioning work valued under $7,500 (DMIRS registration only)
  • Cleaning and replacing air filters
  • Portable/plug-in air conditioners
  • ARCtick licence always required for refrigerant work

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a licence to work as a air conditioning technician in Western Australia?
Yes, you need a licence to carry out air conditioning technician work in Western Australia. The licensing body is Department of Mines, Industry Regulation and Safety (DMIRS). Working without a valid licence is illegal and can result in significant penalties.
How much does a air conditioning technician licence cost in Western Australia?
The application fee for a air conditioning technician licence in Western Australia is $341 for DMIRS registration; $60 for ARCtick. Renewal costs $341 DMIRS triennially; $60 ARCtick every 3 years and must be renewed every 3 years. Additional costs may include public liability insurance and any required assessments.
What qualifications do I need to become a licensed air conditioning technician in Western Australia?
To obtain a air conditioning technician licence in Western Australia, you typically need: Certificate III in Air Conditioning and Refrigeration (UEE32220 or equivalent); Completed 4-year apprenticeship; ARCtick refrigerant handling licence. Check with Department of Mines, Industry Regulation and Safety (DMIRS) for the complete list of requirements.
What are the penalties for unlicensed air conditioning technician work in Western Australia?
Unregistered air-conditioning work in WA carries fines up to $50,000 for individuals. Federal ARCtick penalties of up to $63,000 also apply for unlicensed refrigerant handling.
Can I use my Western Australia air conditioning technician licence in other states?
Western Australia 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:

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

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