Transitioning to a national licence

Why do we need a national licensing system?

For historical reasons, licensing systems have developed in different ways in each state and territory so that approaches to licensing are not consistent. Depending on the occupation and/or the state or territory involved, the reasons for licensing may focus primarily on consumer protection, occupational health and safety and/or public and worker safety. Eligibility requirements to obtain a licence can be different across states and territories and when a licensee moves to another state or territory they might have to apply and pay for another licence and meet a different set of eligibility requirements.

How is the national licensing system being established?

The Occupational Licensing National Law Act 2010 was passed by the Parliament of the host jurisdiction, Victoria on 17 September 2010. The National Law has since been adopted by the parliaments of New South Wales, Queensland, South Australia, Tasmania and Northern Territory and is currently before the Parliament of Western Australia. The Australian Capital Territory is still in discussions about its participation in national licensing.

When will the national licensing system start operating?

The first wave of occupations to commence from 2013 will include property occupations (excluding conveyancers and valuers), electrical occupations, plumbing, gasfitting and air-conditioning and refrigeration occupations. Existing state and territory licences in these occupations will be transferred across to the new system. That is, they will automatically be transferred to an equivalent national licence, entitling the holder to use the licence to work anywhere in the country. Building and building related occupations, conveyancers and valuers will be transferred to the national system in a second wave.

Moving to the national licensing system

We will keep you informed about the transition process through:

• regular updates to this website
• factsheets including key messages
• articles in industry magazines and online newsletters
• letters or emails about the changes that may affect you.

Transferring your licence into the new system

NOLA will work with your state or territory licensing authority to arrange the automatic transfer of your licence into the new system. In most cases, you will not be required to do anything.

For further information refer to:
Factsheet for current licensees
Factsheet for prospective licensees