Qualifications

How to Qualify

Working in RAC electrical work requires a combination of formal trade qualifications, electrical licensing, practical experience, and ongoing development. Requirements vary by the type of work, the state or territory, and whether you undertake electrical, refrigeration, or dual-trade responsibilities.

Electrical trade qualification

The foundation for most is an electrical apprenticeship leading to the UEE30820 Certificate III in Electrotechnology Electrician (or its successor), providing the skills to install, maintain, test, and repair electrical equipment. Completion allows you to apply for an electrical licence in your state or territory.

Refrigeration & air conditioning qualification

Many enter through a refrigeration and air conditioning apprenticeship leading to the UEE32220 Certificate III in Air Conditioning and Refrigeration (or its successor), focused on refrigeration systems, cooling technologies, refrigerants, and HVAC installation and maintenance.

Dual-trade advantage

Holding both electrical and refrigeration qualifications is highly valued across commercial, industrial, mining, and facilities management sectors, since dual-trade professionals can work across both the electrical and mechanical aspects of these systems.

Refrigerant handling licence

Anyone who installs, services, repairs, decommissions, or handles equipment containing regulated refrigerants must hold an appropriate refrigerant handling licence under Australia’s refrigerant licensing framework.

Additional certifications

Electrical Worker Licence (state/territory specific)
Construction Industry White Card
Working at Heights; Elevated Work Platform (EWP)
Confined Space Entry; Low Voltage Rescue
First Aid and CPR; High Risk Work Licences (where applicable)
Building Management System (BMS) or controls training

Post-trade specialisation

Valued specialist training includes building automation and controls, variable speed drives (VSDs), industrial refrigeration, energy efficiency, chiller systems, commissioning and diagnostics, hazardous areas electrical work, and high voltage switching. As HVAC and refrigeration increasingly incorporate digital controls and remote monitoring, ongoing training keeps professionals positioned for advancement.