Myth 3: Is an Australian Electrical License Compulsory In Order to Work On Australian Projects?

False! Unlike Myth #1, this is much less convoluted. Yes, if you’re planning on working within Australia on these projects then you will need to hold an Australian Electrical Licence in order to do so.

That being said, not all Australian projects are actually completed within the country. In fact, it is increasingly common for large sections of projects to be routinely constructed internationally, and sometimes entire projects are constructed outside of the country before being brought into Austrlalia by sea. Electrical work completed outside of Australia does not need to be completed by a licenced electrical worker.

Here’s why: Australian laws that require individuals to hold Electrical Licenses have no jurisdiction overseas where these projects are constructed. While the EEHA competency requirement (AS/NZS/IEC 60079.14) likely still applies to the project (as it comes from a standard, not from a law), competency and licensing are not the same thing. You are capable of demonstrating competency without holding a license. There are multiple training pathways that can be explored in order to prove competency without holding a licence for work overseas.

Of course any electrical work completed within Australia requires an electrical licence, and the penalties for carrying out work unlicensed are severe – don’t be tempted to cut that corner!