Refrigeration and air conditioning

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Latest news

Permit scheme fees will increase by approximately 3.4% for 2026. This change follows the Wage Price Index increase. 

Fees collected support the Ozone Program and it’s permit holders, through: 

  • Processing and delivering permits to ensure compliance and efficient service.
  • Providing education and resources for permit holders and consumers
  • Supporting broader program initiatives, including regulatory oversight and environmental protection measures.

View current fees on the Australian Refrigeration Council’s website.

National regulations

National regulations apply to those who work in the refrigeration and air conditioning industry. In particular, the regulations apply to those who work with:

  • Synthetic greenhouse gases (SGGs)
  • Ozone depleting substances (ODS)

The following permits apply:

  1. A Refrigerant Handling Licence. This is for when you:
    • handle these substances in bulk or in equipment
    • work on equipment containing these substances.
  2. A Refrigerant Trading Authorisation. This is for business or person who:
    • acquires
    • possesses
    • disposes of these substances.

Australian Refrigeration Council (ARC)

The Australian Refrigeration Council (ARC) as the Industry Board. The Industry Board administers these licences and authorisations. More information is available on the ARC website.

Information tailored for you:

Consumers

Find more information on:

  • buying, maintaining, or removing an air-conditioning unit
  • finding a licensed technician in your area
  • impacts of refrigerant gases on the ozone layer and climate change.

Technicians

Find more information on:

  • Refrigerant handling licences for technicians
  • the phase-down of HFC refrigerant gases
  • new rules for charging refrigeration and air conditioning equipment.

Businesses

Find more information on:

  • new rules for charging refrigeration and air conditioning equipment
  • refrigeration training authorisations
  • restricted refrigerant trading authorisations
  • the phase down of HFC refrigerant gases.

Local government and recyclers

Find more information on:

  • refrigerant recovery in recycling
  • local government and recycler obligations
  • how to get licensed
  • practical steps to improve refrigerant recovery rates.

Importers / Exporters

Find more information on:

  • import/export licenses
  • reporting on controlled substances
  • exemptions
  • accurate record keeping.

Customs brokers

Find more information on:

  • guidance on importing regulated substances
  • key points and useful resources.

Related information

Australian Refrigeration Council (ARC)

Importing refrigeration and air conditioning

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