Workers urged to get flying start on licence applications

The Queensland Building and Construction Commission (QBCC) is offering new arrangements for mechanical services workers who apply for their occupational licence ahead of the January 1, 2022 deadline.

Employees who perform mechanical services work for a licensed contractor, including refrigeration and air conditioning, have until January 1, 2022 to hold the relevant occupational licence.

Normally, these licences will need to be renewed one year after they are issued. Under the new arrangements, employees can apply and receive their licence now, but because the licence will only begin on January 1 next year, the first renewal will be on January 1, 2023.

“The deadline is fast approaching,” says the QBCC. “Apply early so you will have the assurance of knowing you have the required licence in time. For those who are granted their Mechanical Services Occupational or Site Supervisor licence after February 2021 and before the January 1, 2022 deadline, the QBCC will arrange for your licence to commence on January 1, 2022, so the first renewal will be January 1, 2023.”

The QBCC is also encouraging workers to review the licensing requirements now to ensure they have the required qualifications in time to be licensed by January 1, 2022. Any additional training that is needed should be considered now.

Those applying for a Mechanical Services – Air-Conditioning and Refrigeration licence can visit the QBCC web page to explore options for meeting the requirements.

The Queensland government established the new licensing framework for mechanical services work on January 1, 2020 to address the significant health and safety risk posed by incorrectly installed or maintained mechanical services systems such as heating, cooling, air conditioning and medical gas systems. Licensing for mechanical services trades has been changed to reflect the important and specialised skills involved in this work.

To learn more about mechanical services licensing, including technical qualifications, experience requirements and alternative qualification pathways, click here.