ARC releases 2024–25 Permit Scheme Annual Report

The report is delivered on behalf of the Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water (DCCEEW) as part of the Ozone Protection and Synthetic Greenhouse Gas (OPSGG) Management Program. It outlines the ARC’s performance across licensing, field engagement and education, and stakeholder engagement.

This year’s report marks 20 years of managing the ARCtick permit scheme.

Highlights of the report

The ARC says the 2024–25 reporting period was the busiest on record, reflecting substantial growth in licensing activity, enhanced operational efficiency, and deeper engagement with both industry and government.

As at 30 June 2025, ARC reported 90,996 refrigerant handling licences (RHLs) and 22,357 refrigerant trading authorisations (RTAs), with a record increase of 14,181 new ARCtick permits issued over the financial year. The ARC identifies its implementation of an automated licence renewal system as one reason for this increase.

The field education and engagement program activity increased significantly, with over 9,000 visits conducted during the year. Of these, 99% were field visits, demonstrating robust industry oversight and commitment to helping permit holders adhere to licensing conditions. The ARC also recorded unprecedented levels of communication activity, with increased distribution and engagement across digital channels.

Encouraging trends

ARC CEO Glenn Evans says the 2024–25 period reflects a growing industry profile and stronger engagement across the board.

“This 20th year marks a significant milestone for ARC and the refrigeration and air conditioning industry,” Evans says. “It has been our busiest year yet, and the data reflects a sector that is expanding in scale and responsibility.

“This report reflects a desire to provide back to the industry in the form of information which can assist training providers, technicians, wholesalers and contractors, painting a picture of the essence of the climate control industry in Australia.”

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