Applying for mutual recognition of your interstate licence

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.

If you already have a current licence to use explosives issued by another state or territory, you may be able to apply for an equivalent licence in Queensland under mutual recognition.

The only licences to which this applies are those that are issued to individuals (not to partnerships or corporations).

Explosives licences that may have an equivalent licence (or combination of licences) are the:

All licences issued in Queensland under mutual recognition are valid for 1 year only. Your licence may be renewed if you meet all Queensland licensing requirements, including competencies.

If you allow your licence to expire, you can't apply again under mutual recognition for that licence type.

How to apply for mutual recognition

From mid-May 2026, applications for occupational authorities and mutual recognition 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 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:

  • a certified copy of the current equivalent explosives licence from the other state or territory for the licence category you're applying for under mutual recognition
  • a completed statutory declaration form (PDF, 629KB).
  • evidence of the endorsements and restrictions on the current licence held from the other state or territory
  • your medical report and signed statement from medical practitioner (if applicable).

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