Fireworks contractor licences

You must have a current Queensland Explosives Security Clearance (QESC) if you are applying for a security-sensitive explosives-related licence, which includes fireworks.

From 1 July 2026, use the RSHQ Portal to apply, renew, and manage your QESC, licences, and notifications—for simpler, faster and smarter licensing and compliance.

A fireworks contractor licence allows an individual, corporation or partnership to:

  • organise a fireworks display for the display host
  • possess fireworks to supply them to a fireworks operator
  • purchase fireworks to use in a fireworks display organised by the fireworks contractor
  • store and transport limited quantities of fireworks (to supply them to a fireworks operator).

If a fireworks contractor is an individual, they must also be an authorised fireworks operator.

If a fireworks contractor is a corporation, the corporation must have a nominated licensed fireworks operator who is a qualified fireworks contractor.

The licence will list the categories of fireworks display authorised under the licence.

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.

Apply

You must apply via the RSHQ Portal (the Portal).

If you have a current licence or Queensland Explosives Security Clearance (QESC):

  1. Log in to your existing Portal account
  2. Go to Licensing & clearances.
  3. Select Explosives applications to begin your application.

If you have not held a RSHQ licence or a QESC in the past 12 months:

  1. Sign up to create a Portal account
  2. Complete an identity verification in the Portal.
  3. Submit a QESC application – you (or applicable directors/partners/responsible person) must hold a valid security clearance before applying for the licence.
  4. To apply for a business account, complete the individual sign-up process then submit a business account setup request via the Manage & update menu in the Portal.
  5. Submit your application in the Portal.

Supporting documents

As part of the Portal application process, you'll need to pay the licence fee (see fees below) and upload copies of the following supporting documents—detailed document requirements are specified in the Portal during the application process:

  • safety and security management system (SSMS)
  • statement of attainment
  • public risk insurance
  • statement of experience
  • and
  • depending on the type of business making the application
    • corporations/registered companies – a copy of the current Australian Securities & Investments Commission (ASIC) extract
    • listed corporations – details of an appointed responsible person for explosives matters
    • partnerships – certified copies of the current certificate of registration of the business name and evidence of registration of the partnership
    • co-operative trading societies, clubs or associations – a certified copy of the annual return.

Fees and payment options

Licence fees must be paid via credit card following submission of the application in the Portal. Read more about payment of licence fees.

Fees for fireworks contractor licences

Licence class Licence fee and period
Fireworks contractor licence 1 year – $489.80 (excl. GST)
3 years – $1,469.39 (excl. GST)

Obligations of licence holders

As a fireworks contractor, you must ensure that all other people involved in the fireworks display (including the fireworks operator) are trained and competent.

You are required to notify us about your fireworks display.

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

Also consider...