Stronger electrical safety laws proposed for Queensland

• The Miles Government has released its response to a review of Queensland's electrical safety laws. 
• Proposed laws will improve electrical safety and enhance the Government’s ability to regulate high risk electrical products.
• Submissions were received from industry, registered unions and the community which have informed Government’s response.

The Miles Government has outlined proposals to further strengthen Queensland’s electrical safety laws, following a review of Queensland’s Electrical Safety Act 2002.

The review and subsequent public discussion paper released in 2023 involved extensive consultation with industry, registered unions and the community and will help to inform the government’s ongoing efforts to address the electrical risks posed by emerging technologies.

The government intends to legislate to expand the definition of ‘electrical equipment’ to include some high-risk extra low voltage items because of the potential risks they pose. Consultation has identified items such as solar PV modules and some lithium-ion batteries as being of particular risk.

The government will also seek to update the definition of ‘electrical installation’ to ensure it covers modern energy generation systems, as well as new and emerging technologies such as battery energy storage systems.

A working group will also be established to ensure the legislative definition of ‘electrical work’ is clear, fit for purpose and adaptable to ongoing technological advancements.

Separate to the review, a roundtable chaired by the Commissioner for Electrical Safety has been convened to consider safety improvements for those who work on electric vehicles, with outcomes to be referred for national consideration later this year.

To read the Government’s response to the Review of the Electrical Safety Act 2002, visit https://www.oir.qld.gov.au/public-consultation/electrical-safety-act-2002-review

Quotes attributable to the Minister for Industrial Relations Grace Grace:

“Queensland’s Electrical Safety Act was introduced in 2002 and the way we use and interact with electricity has changed dramatically since then.

“The amendments we are proposing will ensure the Act stays ahead of rapidly evolving electrical technology, keeping safety front and centre so we can enjoy the benefits it brings.

"Queensland already leads the nation when it comes to keeping our workers and communities safe but we know that we can do even more when it comes to electrical safety.

“The legislative amendments we are seeking will ensure Queensland has the best possible contemporary electrical safety laws which align with other safety legislation.

“I want to thank Dick Williams and the review team along with all the individuals, registered unions, peak industry bodies, electrical contractors, statutory bodies and advocacy groups who contributed to the review.

“This government has a proud record on electrical safety, including the establishment of a standalone Electrical Safety Office and reinstating the position of the Commissioner for Electrical Safety following its abolition by the LNP.

“We have improved the rigour of our electrical licensing framework, and now we’re going a step further with stronger laws to ensure we can continue to adapt to technological and industry changes, both now and into the future.”

ENDS

Media contact – Martin Philip 0407 675 008