Last Updated on November 15, 2025 by Ozlinks Education
What is a trade license in Australia?
A trade license in Australia is an official authorization issued by a state or territorial regulatory body that allows individuals to legally engage in specific trades, such as plumbing, electrical work, air conditioning, refrigeration, and building construction. A trade license’s requirements vary by state, meaning you must obtain a license for each state in which you intend to work. These licenses demonstrate an individual’s competence, skills, and adherence to industry standards and regulations.
To obtain a trade license, individuals typically need to meet certain qualification requirements, complete an apprenticeship, and pass relevant examinations. Furthermore, ongoing professional development may be required to ensure that tradespeople remain up to date with industry practices and safety regulations.
Trade licenses are generally issued at the state level and serve as proof of an individual’s adherence to industry standards and regulations, as well as their skills and competence. Professions such as electricians, plumbers, locksmiths, builders, and other skilled tradespeople require these licenses.
Do you need help to register your trade license?
Ozlinks Education can help you register for an electrical, plumbing, or air conditioning license. Please complete the form to receive a free consultation. Our expert team will guide you through the licensing process and answer any questions you may have. Take the first step towards advancing your career today!
RPL ProgramsWhat trades require a license in Australia?
In Australia, a license is required for a variety of trades to maintain professional standards and ensure public safety. This typically includes electrical work, plumbing, gas fitting, and certain roles within the construction and building sectors. It is important to note that license requirements can vary across states and territories. Below are the trade industries that require a trade license to perform work.
- Building Construction
- Plumbing Work
- Electrical Work
- Air-conditioning and Refrigeration
Why do I need a trade license?
In Australia, obtaining a trade license is mandatory for specific skilled trades and businesses. These licenses guarantee that individuals possess the required qualifications and competencies to carry out particular tasks, especially those that involve safety risks or specialized technical expertise.
How can I obtain a trade license in Australia?
To obtain a trade license in Australia, you generally need to complete a recognized training program, gain practical experience and then apply for a license through the relevant state or territory licensing authority. The specific requirements vary by trade and location. Visit each of the stage described below for a specific state or territory licensing authority.
Australian Capital Territory (ACT) trade license
In the Australian Capital Territory (ACT), the Environment, Planning and Sustainable Development Directorate (EPSDD) is responsible for licensing in construction, plumbing, and electrical work. Obtain expert assistance with your ACT Trade Licence by filling out the form for support.
New South Wales (NSW) trade license
In the New South Wales (NSW), the NSW Fair Trading is responsible for licensing in construction, plumbing, and electrical work. Obtain expert assistance with your New South Wales Trade Licence by filling out the form for support.
Northern Territory (NT) trade licence
In the Northern Territory (NT), the Building Practitioners Board and Electrical Workers and Contractors Licensing Board is responsible for licencing in construction, plumbing, and electrical work. Obtain expert assistance with your Northern Territory Trade Licence by filling out the form for support.
South Australia (SA) trade licence
In the South Australia (SA), the Consumer and Business Services (CBS) is responsible for licencing in construction, plumbing, and electrical work. Obtain expert assistance with your South Australia Trade Licence by filling out the form for support.
Victoria (VIC) trade licence
In Victoria, the Victorian Building Authority (VBA) is responsible for licencing in construction, plumbing, and electrical work, gas fitting. Obtain expert assistance with your Victoria Trade Licence by filling out the form for support.
Tasmania (TAS) trade licence
In Tasmania, the Department of Justice is responsible for licencing in construction, plumbing, gas fitting and electrical work. Obtain expert assistance with your Tasmania Trade Licence by filling out the form for support.
Queensland (QLD) trade licence
In Queensland (QLD), the Queensland Building and Construction Commission (QBCC) is responsible for licencing in construction, plumbing, and electrical work, gas fitting. Obtain expert assistance with your Queensland Trade Licence by filling out the form for support.
Western Australia (WA) trade licence
In Western Australia (WA), the Building Commission is responsible for licencing in construction, plumbing, and electrical work, gas fitting. Obtain expert assistance with your Western Australia Trade Licence by filling out the form for support.
Do you need help with skills assessment for trade occupation?
If you are a migrant and have a minimum of 6 years of full-time work experience in your relevant occupation as an electrician, plumber, or air conditioning technician in your home country, we can assist you in completing a migration skills assessment under the Offshore Skills Assessment Programme (OSAP).
The Offshore Skills Assessment Program (OSAP) is a program run by Trades Recognition Australia (TRA) that assesses the skills and experience of individuals applying for skilled migration visas to Australia, particularly for trade occupations. It determines if applicants have the necessary skills to work in their nominated occupation in Australia at the required skill level.
If you successfully complete the Offshore Skills Assessment Program and pass the practical assessment, the assessing authority will issue an Offshore Technical Skills Record (OTSR).
Skills Assessment Support