Pyrotechnics & Fireworks

Fireworks and Pyrotechnics

Only licensed pyrotechnicians, persons under their direct supervision, or persons with a valid single occasion licence are allowed to discharge fireworks in Victoria.

Applying to become a Licensed Pyrotechnician

WorkCover issues pyrotechnician's licences to people who demonstrate adequate experience in the safe discharge of fireworks. Licensed pyrotechnicians may only discharge the types of fireworks printed on their licence and are required to notify WorkSafe Victoria whenever they intend to discharge Fireworks.

To obtain a licence to become a Pyrotechnician and discharge fireworks in Victoria the applicant must be able to show that they have practical experience in the discharge of fireworks, have completed an approved course (search training providers) or hold an interstate licence to discharge fireworks.

You must indicate the endorsements required on the licence application. The endorsements allowed are as follows:

  • Ground Display
  • Chinese Firecrackers
  • Theatrical
  • Aerial Salutes (up to 75mm)
  • Aerial Shells (up to 75mm)
  • Aerial Shells (up to 100mm)
  • Aerial Shells (up to 150mm)
  • Aerial Shells (up to 300mm)

A new licence granted on the basis of experience or completion of an Approved Course will not be endorsed for Aerial Shells greater than 75mm or for Aerial Salutes.

To apply for a Licence to discharge fireworks an applicant must complete an Application for a Licence for a Pyrotechnician to Discharge Fireworks form and submit it along with the required proof of training and experience to WorkSafe Victoria.

It is a requirement of the application for a licence to discharge fireworks that you provide WorkSafe Victoria with Proof of Identity and consent to the Authority obtaining sufficient information to determine if the applicant is a Suitable Person to hold a licence.

Single Occasion Licenses

Single occasion licences to discharge Chinese Firecrackers can only be granted to incorporated associations or community groups in connection with cultural, religious or traditional occasions or purposes requiring the discharge of Chinese firecrackers. To apply for a single occasion licence to discharge Chinese firecrackers the applicant must complete an Application for a Licence to Discharge Chinese Firecrackers on a Single Occasion form and submit it with the required information to WorkSafe Victoria.

Single occasion licences to discharge theatrical fireworks can only be granted for theatrical, entertainment or similar purposes. To apply for a single occasion licence to discharge theatrical fireworks the applicant must complete an Application for a Licence to Discharge Theatrical Fireworks on a Single Occasion form and submit it with the required information to WorkSafe Victoria.

More information:

Safety Advice

For advice on safety issues, view Part 8 of the Dangerous Goods (Explosives) Regulations 2000, available from Victorian law today.

Notice Board

This section aims to provide pyrotechnician's with relevant information from sources external to WorkSafe Victoria, including requirements imposed by other authorities or agencies. All queries relating to the information provided on the Notice Board should be made to the relevant authority or agency.

More information:
General enquiries regarding the Regulations, Pyrotechnicians or Licences should be directed to the Advisory Service

Submit your completed application forms and all supporting documentation to:
WorkSafe Victoria Licensing Branch
GPO BOX 4293
Melbourne Vic. 3001
Telephone: 1300 85

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