New national licensing system kicks off with NECA appointment to advisory committees

NECA has welcomed its appointment by the Ministerial Council for Federal Financial Relations to the interim advisory committees to advise on the new national licensing system for the electrical and refrigeration and air-conditioning occupations.

NECA National Chief Executive Officer James Tinslay said businesses and their employees had long been burdened by separate and very different licensing regimes adopted by state governments: “The cost to the industry and hence the nation as a result of these starkly different licensing regimes has been huge.

“NECA has long called for a single licensing system or at least a state harmonised system for occupational and business licensing for both industries. The establishment of the advisory committee is the first step in turning this long-held wish into a reality. NECA has strongly supported this COAG and Australian government initiative and will work towards achieving the 1 July 2012 start date.”

NECA members employ more than 90% of electricians in Australia and the successful outcome of this national initiative will be welcomed by employers.