Applying for a licence to store explosives

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.

You need a licence or permit to store explosives unless you:

are storing a limited quantity of exempt explosives, as listed in Schedule 4 of the Explosives Regulation 2017
have another explosives licence that authorises the storage of the explosive
are storing explosives at a government reserve.

Licences vs permits

Licences authorise you to store explosives on an ongoing basis.

Permits allow you to store explosives temporarily at a site for a short period due to unforeseen, unplanned or transitory reasons, or in relation to a permit to import or export explosives.

A special permit to store explosives at an arms fair is also available.

Application requirements

Check the application form for a list of requirements, including requirements for security clearances for security-sensitive explosives and a safety and security management system.

Publicly listed corporations must appoint a responsible person for explosives matters if they have not already done so.

How to apply

Your application should include:

application form for the relevant licence or permit
licence fee (see below)
supporting documents (according to the required documentation on the application form).

Fees and payment options

Licence fees can only be paid via credit card (BPOINT) following submission of the online form. Read more about payment of licence fees.

Licence class	Licence type	Licence fee and period
Permit to store explosives	N/A	Nil
Licence to store explosives	For blasting explosives up to 100kg	1 year $131.85 (excl. GST) 5 years $659.25 (excl. GST)
Licence to store explosives	For blasting explosives greater than 100kg	1 year $515.34 (excl. GST) 5 years $2,576.70 (excl. GST)
Licence to store explosives	For propellant powders up to 100kg	1 year $49.54 (excl. GST) 5 years $247.70 (excl. GST)
Licence to store explosives	For propellant powders greater than 100kg but not greater than 250kg	1 year $131.85 (excl. GST) 5 years $659.25 (excl. GST)
Licence to store explosives	For propellant powders greater than 250kg	1 year $515.34 (excl. GST) 5 years $2,576.70 (excl. GST)
Licence to store explosives	For fireworks up to 100kg (gross weight)	1 year $49.54 (excl. GST) 5 years $247.70 (excl. GST)
Licence to store explosives	For fireworks greater than 100kg (gross weight)	1 year $515.34 (excl. GST) 5 years $2,576.70 (excl. GST)
Licence to store explosives	For explosives not mentioned above, not more than 100kg, including SSAN	1 year $49.54 (excl. GST) 5 years $247.70 (excl. GST)
Licence to store explosives	For explosives not mentioned above, greater than 100kg, including SSAN	1 year $515.34 (excl. GST) 5 years $2,576.70 (excl. GST)