Western Australia • Electrician

Electrician Licence Requirements in Western Australia

Everything you need to know about electrician 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

Electrician licences in Western Australia are issued and regulated by:

EnergySafety WA (DMIRS)

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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 Western Australia. This is regulated by EnergySafety WA (DMIRS). Working without a licence is illegal and may result in significant fines.

Licence Types Available

Electrical Contractor Licence

Contract to carry out electrical work in WA

Electrical Worker Licence

Carry out electrical work under a contractor

Restricted Electrical Licence

Limited to specific types of electrical work

Requirements

To obtain a electrician licence in Western Australia, you need:

  • Certificate III in Electrotechnology Electrician (UEE30820 or equivalent)
  • Completed 4-year apprenticeship
  • EnergySafety WA electrical licence
  • Contractor: additional supervisory and business qualifications
  • Public liability insurance

Costs

Fee Type Amount
Application Fee $279 for electrical worker licence
Renewal Fee $279 annually
Renewal Period 1 year

Penalties for Unlicensed Work

Unlicensed electrical work in WA carries fines up to $50,000 for individuals. EnergySafety can also issue prohibition notices, infringement notices, and pursue prosecution.

Exemptions

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

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a licence to work as a electrician in Western Australia?
Yes, you need a licence to carry out electrician work in Western Australia. The licensing body is EnergySafety WA (DMIRS). Working without a valid licence is illegal and can result in significant penalties.
How much does a electrician licence cost in Western Australia?
The application fee for a electrician licence in Western Australia is $279 for electrical worker licence. Renewal costs $279 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 electrician in Western Australia?
To obtain a electrician licence in Western Australia, you typically need: Certificate III in Electrotechnology Electrician (UEE30820 or equivalent); Completed 4-year apprenticeship; EnergySafety WA electrical licence. Check with EnergySafety WA (DMIRS) for the complete list of requirements.
What are the penalties for unlicensed electrician work in Western Australia?
Unlicensed electrical work in WA carries fines up to $50,000 for individuals. EnergySafety can also issue prohibition notices, infringement notices, and pursue prosecution.
Can I use my Western Australia electrician licence in other states?
Western Australia 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)
Victoria (VIC)
South Australia (SA)
Tasmania (TAS)
Australian Capital Territory (ACT)
Northern Territory (NT)

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