What is changing
From 2 November 2026, the Queensland Government has streamlined how plumbers obtain an occupational plumber licence through the QBCC.
New pathways to an occupational licence
Apprentices who finish their Australian plumbing apprenticeship and Certificate III in Plumbing (including Appendix A units) can go straight to an occupational licence without first holding a provisional licence.
Former occupational licensees can return to the trade within 10 years without needing reassessment or gap training, unless their earlier licence was cancelled for disciplinary reasons.
Current provisional licensees who meet one of these criteria can apply to upgrade to an occupational licence. QBCC will refund any unused portion of the provisional licence fee if the upgrade is approved.
Key actions
- Check which pathway applies using the plumbing pathway tool on the QBCC website (unlicensed, provisional licence holder, or returning licensee)
- If the apprenticeship and Certificate III in Plumbing have just been completed, submit the application form for an occupational plumbers/drainers or restricted licence
- If a QBCC occupational plumbers, drainers or restricted licence was held in the past 10 years and the person is currently unlicensed, submit the application form to return to the trade
- If a current provisional licence is held and the technical requirements are met, submit a Request to Upgrade form to QBCC
- 12 months drainage experience, which can include apprenticeship experience, is needed to be eligible for an occupational drainers licence
This is a plain-English summary for information only, not legal or compliance advice. Always check the official source or consult a qualified professional.