The national restricted electrical licence system
The national restricted electrical licence (NREL) system is a program of training and assessment to assist non-electrically trained persons to obtain a restricted electrical licence to perform a restricted range of electrical work as part of their function.
A restricted electrical licence authorises the holder to carry out electrical work associated with or for the purposes of the holder’s trade or calling, subject to such restrictions or conditions as may be specified on the licence.
A restricted electrical work licence does not authorise the holder of the licence to carry out installation work.
Restricted electrical licences apply to specific work area categories and units of competence.
Training
Training generally involves two parts:
- Off-the-job instruction (eg in a classroom environment)
- On-the-job instruction, whilst under the supervision of a suitably licensed person.
Training is co-ordinated by training providers (registered training organisations).
Training in on-the-job competencies is normally carried out by the trainee’s employer, under supervision of a person authorised to supervise trainees. A person who is self-employed (or intends to be) must make arrangements for a licensed person to supervise any electrical work while undergoing training.
Applicants for a restricted electrical licence should obtain approval to commence training from the licensing authority. Competencies achieved both off-the-job and on-the-job are recorded in a formal logbook. Trainees in Queensland are issued with a permit to undertake restricted electrical work under supervision until all competencies are demonstrated and a licence issued.
A person holding a current restricted electrical licence issued in one State may obtain an equivalent licence in another State, on application to the relevant licensing authority and payment of the prescribed fees.
Assessment
Assessments are carried out to determine the levels of competence of applicants for a restricted electrical licence.
An applicant who does not have the requisite restricted electrical competencies will undergo training in NREL system. During the course of this training, applicants will have their competencies assessed to validate that the levels are being achieved. This applies to both on-the-job and off-the-job training.
Where applicants consider that they already possess the required skills and do not need to undergo training, they may elect to have their competencies assessed in recognition of their prior learning (RPL). RPL assessments are carried out by registered training organisations (RTOs).
Last updated May 31, 2005
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