Refrigeration and Air Conditioning

Refrigeration mechanics are currently not licensed in Tasmania, although people who meet the eligibility criteria are eligible for a licence to work on refrigeration systems for the heating and cooling of buildings.

Because there has been some uncertainty as to whether refrigeration work will be included under the National Occupational Licensing System (NOLS), Workplace Standards has exempted refrigeration work for the heating and cooling of buildings from the requirement to be undertaken by licensed persons until a decision is made by the NOLS in relation to refrigeration and air conditioning work.

The National Occupational Licensing Authority has prepared draft Regulations and a Regulatory Impact Statement for refrigeration and air conditioning work for release for public comment soon. Once the comments have been reviewed, a decision will be made as to whether refrigeration and air conditioning mechanics will be licensed under the NOLS.

What will happen if NOLS does licence refrigeration mechanics?

If the NOLS goes ahead with licensing refrigeration mechanics, Workplace Standards will seek the views of the Tasmanian refrigeration industry on whether to license this occupation before the NOLS commences.

Does Tasmania have to licence refrigeration mechanics before the NOLS?

No, Tasmania does not have to license refrigeration mechanics before the NOLS commences. If the NOLS proceeds with licensing this occupation, and Tasmania decides not to, the difference will be that Tasmanian refrigeration mechanics will need to be licensed under the NOLS if they intend to work in states that do license refrigeration mechanics.

Can we change our minds and be licensed after the NOLS starts?

Yes, but it could be a more difficult process after the NOLS starts, which is why Workplace Standards will be seeking your views.

How will it affect me if refrigeration mechanics are licensed?

If both Tasmania and the NOLS licence refrigeration mechanics, you will be able to "transition" into firstly the State licensing system and then into the NOLS system if you are already working in the industry and have an Australian Refrigeration Council Ltd (ARCTick) Licence RAC01 or RSS03.

What's happening in the meantime?

Workplace Standards is drafting "scope of work" and eligibility requirements based on the anticipated NOLS requirements. If the decision is made to go ahead with licensing, these requirements will be published on this website and you will be asked to comment.

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