Fireworks operator licences

A current Queensland Explosives Security Clearance (QESC) is required for anyone who has access to security sensitive explosives. You can apply for a QESC in the RSHQ Portal (the Portal).

From 24 May 2026, occupational authority applications move to the Portal. From 30 June 2026 all remaining explosive licences, notifications and reporting activities will also move to the Portal.

A fireworks operator is allowed to conduct displays only under the supervision of a fireworks contractor.

A fireworks operator licence allows you to use, possess, store and transport a limited quantity of fireworks for a fireworks display organised by a fireworks contractor.

A fireworks operator licence does not allow you to purchase fireworks.

The licence may limit the category and size of the fireworks display.

Note: To apply for a special effects (pyrotechnics) fireworks operator licence, please contact the Explosives Inspectorate.

Application requirements

Check the 'how to apply' section for a list of requirements and the following supporting documents.

Competency requirements

The competency requirements for different types of fireworks are shown in the table below.

In Queensland, Fireworks Australia (Importers) Pty Ltd is the only organisation approved to provide this training. Contact them to discuss your training requirements.

Competency requirements for fireworks operators and contractors

Competency unit Fireworks operators Fireworks contractors
CUAPYR411 Manage health and safety requirements at fireworks displays OD, CP, SC _
CUAPYR412 Operate outdoor fireworks displays OD _
CUAPYR413 Plan outdoor fireworks display _ OD, CP, SC
CUAPYR414 Operate close proximity fireworks displays CP _
CUAPYR415 Plan close proximity fireworks displays _ CP1
Competency assessment by inspector SC* _

Legend:

  • OD: Outdoor fireworks displays (including strings of crackers)
  • CP: Close proximity
  • SC: Strings of crackers
  • *Course not yet available
  • 1CUAPYR415 is only required where the fireworks contractor is endorsed for close proximity displays only. In this instance, it replaces CUAPYR413.

Note: To apply for a special effects (pyrotechnics) fireworks operator licence, contact the Explosives Inspectorate.

How to apply

From mid-May 2026, applications for occupational authorities are submitted via the RSHQ Portal (the Portal). If you do not already have a Portal account, you will need to follow these steps:

  1. Create an account on the Portal—visit the RSHQ Portal web page for more information on how to create an account, and to access help resources.
  2. Complete an identity verification in the Portal.
  3. Submit a QESC application in the Portal—you must hold a valid security clearance before you can apply for an occupational authority relating to security-sensitive explosives (which includes fireworks and pyrotechnics).
  4. Submit the occupational authority (licence) application in the Portal.

Your application includes the payment of the licence fee, and the following supporting documents:

  • Passport sized photo: A passport sized photo of the applicant must be provided. The requirements for the photo are listed in the application.
  • Identity document: A copy of current photo ID such as your Australian passport, foreign passport, Australian driver licence or learner's permit, ImmiCard. It must clearly show your face and the document details.
  • Medical certificate: A copy of a F3712 – Medical certificate for motor vehicle driver or an acceptable equivalent (i.e. any assessment form issued by a government agency assessing a person's fitness to drive) issued within the past 6 months and completed to commercial standards.
  • Letter from medical practitioner: A signed statement (dated within the past 6 months) from a registered medical practitioner that confirms you are physically able to use and manually handle fireworks in a fireworks display as required by Section 39(1)(b) of the Explosives Regulation 2017.
  • First aid certificate: A copy of a statement of attainment from a registered training organisation that includes the unit of competency HLTAID011 – Provide first aid (or equivalent) dated within the past 3 years.
  • Evidence of experience: A detailed statement of the duration and nature of your experience in the use of fireworks, including the period over which experience was gained and the number of displays conducted, supported by copies of logbooks. Your experience must correspond with the type of fireworks to be used and demonstrate your satisfactory knowledge of the matters listed in Section 39(1)(d) of the Explosives Regulation 2017.
  • Statement of attainment: A copy of a statement of attainment from a registered training organisation with the relevant units of competency for the category of licence being applied for. The statement of attainment must be dated within the past 3 years.
  • Endorsement letter: A signed letter from a currently licensed fireworks contractor that
    • endorses your application for a fireworks operator licence
    • confirms your employment with the fireworks contractor
    • confirms that you are trained to operate fireworks under the fireworks contractor's Safety and Security Management System
    • has satisfactory knowledge of the matters listed in Section 39(1)(d) of the Explosives Regulation 2017.

*Note: If you apply for an occupational authority, your biometric data (digital photo and signature) will be retained while your licence remains current. It will be destroyed if your application is withdrawn or refused, or your licence expires.

Fees and payment options

For new, or renewal applications submitted via the RSHQ Portal or Smartform, payment is made using a credit card at the end of the application process.

Read more about payment of licence fees.

Fees for fireworks operator licences

Licence class Licence fee and period
Fireworks operator licence 1 year $151.25 (excl. GST)
3 years $453.75 (excl. GST)

Obligations of licence holders

Licence holders must comply with the terms of their licence, as well as the following codes of practice:

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