Queensland’s rules are the ones installers most often search under two phrasings: the “QBCC solar installer licence” and the “solar installer licence QBCC”. They are the same question.
The three layers
1. The person doing the electrical work needs an electrical licence. Solar PV installation is electrical work, so unlicensed workers cannot do it. The Electrical Safety Office regulates electrical work.
2. The business contracting for the work needs the right contractor licence. Queensland government guidance on selling solar says the selling business must hold either a QBCC licence or an unrestricted electrical contractor licence if the value of the system exceeds a threshold, reported as $3,300 including STCs. The detail changes over time, so check the QBCC.
3. SAA accreditation is separate. It is a condition of creating STCs, not a state licence. See SAA accreditation and how to become accredited.
Other Queensland costs
Queensland businesses also need to consider insurance (including any home warranty scheme that applies to building work; see warranty insurance), QLeave for workers in some industries, and workers compensation through WorkCover when you employ people. Ask your accountant or the QBCC what applies to your structure.
Working in Queensland from another state
Queensland has been outside some automatic recognition arrangements, so an interstate licence does not automatically carry across the border. See interstate electrical licence recognition.
Selling in Queensland
Consumer law applies to sales, including door-to-door rules and cooling-off. See consumer law for solar installers. The retailer paperwork for STCs is in solar retailer requirements.
From the desk: do not assume that holding an electrical licence automatically lets your company contract for solar sales above the threshold. Ask the QBCC, in writing if needed, before you advertise.
What this means for installers
Queensland has strong solar and battery demand, so it is worth getting set up properly. The sequence is electrical licence, contractor licence as needed, SAA accreditation, insurance. Zone 3 covers Brisbane, the Gold Coast, Cairns and Townsville, so STC values are on the calculator at STC calculator. Next, start trading and see the installers hub for related questions, or compare NSW.