Many states in Australia are implementing compulsory registration requirements for engineers. This is very important for companies employing or sponsoring overseas engineers because it is a condition of a TSS visa that any compulsory registration or license must be obtained within 90 days of arrival in Australia or grant of the visa if already in Australia. It will also be required before permanent residence can be granted.

Registration laws in Queensland are already in effect.  For NSW, they will be in effect by 1 July 2021. Other states are expected to announce their time table soon.

It is not clear at this stage:

• Exactly what categories of occupation/activity will require registration e.g. if Construction Managers doing some engineering work will also require registration
• Whether there will be exemptions from registration e.g. it appears that performing engineering work under the supervision of an engineer may be allowed without registration
• Whether there will be more flexible timeframes for overseas engineers (either already in Australia or who will be arriving) to become registered (beyond the 90 days above)

We highly recommend that clients reach out to their state engineering authority for more information and we are always happy to help.

DISCLAIMER This information is current as of 29 June 2020 and subject to change. The information contained in this publication is of a general nature only. It should not be used as legal advice. To the extent permissible by law, Ajuria Lawyers and its associated entities shall not be liable for any errors, omissions, defects or misrepresentations in the information or for any loss or damage suffered by persons who use or rely on such information. Liability limited by a scheme approved under Professional Standards Legislation.